Changing your character's appearance mid-game in is notoriously difficult because character data (hair, colors, and species) is hard-coded into your .player save file. Standard Workshop mods generally cannot modify these specific values while you are playing.
However, you can still "change" your look using one of the three methods below. 1. The "Mod" Solution: StarExtensions
If you want a modern in-game editor, StarExtensions is currently the best option. It is a specialized tool (not a standard Workshop mod) that modifies the game engine to allow mid-game changes.
How it works: Once installed, you can use the command /editor open to reopen the character creation screen on your current character.
Tip: It is recommended to remove your cosmetic armor before using this to avoid resetting your worn clothes. 2. The External Tool: Starcheat
For a long time, Starcheat has been the go-to external save editor. It allows you to open your save file and directly change your hairstyle, colors, and even your species.
Note: While powerful, some features may break after major game updates. Always make a backup of your storage/player folder before using it. 3. The "Manual" File Edit (No Mods)
If you don't want to install extra software, you can manually swap appearance data between a "template" character and your main character. This is the most stable method but requires several steps.
Create a New Character: Make a temporary character with the exact hairstyle and colors you want.
Locate Files: Go to your Starbound folder (storage/player) and find the .player files for both your old and new characters.
Unpack & Swap: Use the dump_versioned_json tool in the game's win32 folder to turn the binary player files into readable text.
Edit "Identity": Search for the "identity" section in both files. Copy the hair, color, and pose values from the new character's text file and paste them into your main character's file.
Repack: Use make_versioned_json to convert the text back into a .player file.
Looking for Cosmetics instead?If you just want to change your clothes, use the Wardrobe Interface mod, which allows you to preview and equip every piece of clothing in the game without editing save files. Mod that changes appearance and race? - Steam Community
, character appearance is hardcoded into your save file, meaning there is no "Barber Shop" or built-in menu to change your look mid-game. Most players use external tools or save file editing to achieve this. 🛠️ Option 1: Using Mods (Easiest)
While standard Steam Workshop mods can't easily edit your save, certain "extensions" add this functionality directly to the game.
StarExtensions: This is widely considered the best tool for this. It allows you to reopen the character creation menu in-game. Command: Once installed, type /editor open in the chat.
Note: It is recommended to unequip your clothes first, as the editor might reset cosmetic slots.
OpenStarbound: An alternative engine for the game that includes a /run player.setSpecies("race") command and other identity-changing tools. 📁 Option 2: Save File Editing (Advanced) starbound change character appearance mod work
If you don't want to install extensions, you can manually swap your appearance by "borrowing" the data from a new character. 1. Create a "Template" Character
Launch Starbound and create a new character with the exact appearance (hair, colors, etc.) you want for your main. Save and exit the game immediately. 2. Locate Your Save Files Go to \Starbound\storage\player\.
Identify your Main character and your Template character. (Check the "Date Modified" timestamp; the Template will be the newest). Backup your entire folder before touching anything. 3. Use Official Tools to "Unpack" the Save
Starbound saves are binary and unreadable by text editors. You must use the tools in the \Starbound\win32\ folder: Command: dump_versioned_json.exe [MainID].player main.json.
Repeat this for the Template character to get template.json. 4. Swap the "Identity" Data Open both .json files in Notepad++. Search for the "identity" section.
Copy the values for hairType, hairDirectives, and bodyDirectives from the Template to your Main.
Directives are long strings of HEX codes that control your colors (skin, hair, underwear). 5. Repack the Save
Use the sister tool: make_versioned_json.exe main.json [MainID].player.
Replace the old file in your storage/player folder and launch the game. 🎨 Quick Reference: Customization Keys
If you are manually editing the JSON, look for these specific tags: hairType: The sprite name for your hair (e.g., male23). bodyDirectives: HEX codes for skin and underwear color. hairDirectives: HEX codes for hair color. personality: Controls your idle stance.
To change your character's appearance mid-game in , you should use StarExtensions (or its derivatives like xStarbound
), as standard workshop mods cannot easily modify "hardcoded" character data. Core Feature: In-Game Character Editor
Unlike cosmetic-only mods, this allows you to access the full character creation suite while playing. Access Command /editor open into the in-game chat to open the re-customization menu. Capabilities Physical Traits
: Change your hairstyle, body/hair/undy colors, and personality pose. : Modify your character's name and gender. Race Switching
: Change your species directly (though this may not automatically change your ship type).
: Remove all cosmetic clothing before using the editor, as the process may reset what you are currently wearing. Alternative: Save File Editing (No Mod Required)
If you prefer not to install extensions, you can manually edit your character file using external tools: Guide :: Starbound: Character Re-customization.
In vanilla , there is no built-in way to change your character's physical appearance (like hair, skin color, or species) after you finish the initial character creation. However, the modding community has developed several tools and workarounds to bypass this limitation. In-Game Mod Solutions Step 3: Create a character
The most seamless way to edit your appearance while playing is through external client-side mods that inject an editor directly into the game. StarExtensions
: This is widely considered the most modern and effective tool. It features an in-game character editor that can be opened by typing /editor open into the chat.
: It is recommended to unequip all cosmetic clothes before using this command, as the editor might reset them. OpenStarbound
: Similar to StarExtensions, this engine replacement allows for advanced commands. You can change your race instantly using the command /run player.setSpecies("raceID")
: While this mod doesn't change your physical body (like skin or eyes), it provides a specialized interface to preview and spawn every cosmetic item and dye in the game. This is ideal for players who want to change their "look" without modifying the character file. The "Save File" Manual Method
If you prefer not to install engine-level mods like StarExtensions, you can manually edit your character's save file. This involves converting your binary
file into a readable format, editing the text, and converting it back. Chucklefish Forums
How to Change Your Character's Appearance in Starbound: Do Mods Actually Work?
Starbound is a massive universe where you can be anything from a robotic glitch to a sentient plant. But after fifty hours of gameplay, you might realize that the neon-green mohawk you chose at the start wasn't your best decision. Unlike many modern RPGs, Starbound does not include a built-in "magic mirror" or barbershop to change your looks after the initial character creation screen.
This leaves players asking one question: Does a Starbound change character appearance mod actually work?
The short answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as clicking a button in-game. Here is everything you need to know about the current state of appearance modification in Starbound. The Challenge of Changing Looks in Starbound
Starbound saves character data in a specific file format (.player) that is generated the moment you finish character creation. Because your appearance is tied to your save file’s metadata, the game doesn't natively provide a way to "re-roll" your pixels.
While gear and vanity items can cover up your character, they don't change the base sprite colors, hair style, or personality stance. To fix those, you have to look toward the modding community or external tools. Top Modding Solutions for Appearance Changes
If you are looking for a way to change your character’s looks mid-game, there are a few reliable methods that players have used for years.
The "Wardrobe" ModOne of the most popular mods on the Steam Workshop is the Wardrobe mod. While its primary function is allowing you to preview and wear every piece of clothing in the game, some versions and add-ons allow for more deep customization. It is the closest thing to an "all-in-one" fashion interface.
Appearance Change Items (Add-on Mods)Several smaller mods introduce specific "Barber Chairs" or "DNA Modification Stations" as craftable furniture. Once placed, these stations open a menu that mimics the character creation screen.Pros: High immersion; feels like part of the game.Cons: Can sometimes be buggy if you are using custom races (like the Avali or Elduukhar).
External Save Editors (The Most Reliable Method)Technically not a "mod" that you install in your Steam folder, save editors like StarboundEdit or web-based tools are often the most effective. You upload your .player file. You manually change hex codes for colors or hair IDs.
You download the file and replace the old one.This is the only 100% "workable" way to change your character without worrying about mod conflicts or game crashes. Does it work with Custom Race Mods? Inside your mod folder, create a new file called character
This is where things get tricky. If you are using a custom race mod (like Frackin' Universe or standalone race packs), a standard appearance mod might not recognize the unique hair or skin options of that race.
If you want to change the appearance of a modded race, ensure the appearance mod you choose explicitly states it is compatible with "custom species." Otherwise, you might end up with an invisible character or a crashed save file. Common Issues and How to Fix Them If your mod isn't working, check these three things:
Mod Load Order: Ensure your appearance mod is loading after any race mods.
Multiplayer Compatibility: If you change your appearance via a mod, other players on a server might not see the changes unless they also have that mod installed.
Corrupted Saves: Always back up your "storage" folder before trying an appearance mod. If the game tries to load a hairstyle ID that doesn't exist, it will kick you back to the main menu. The Verdict
While Chucklefish never added an official way to change your hair or skin, the modding community has filled the gap. If you want a seamless experience, look for the "Wardrobe" mod or a dedicated "Barber Station" mod on the Workshop. If you want a permanent, "fail-proof" change, using an external save editor is your best bet.
With a little bit of tweaking, you don't have to delete your character just to get a fresh haircut. Your interstellar journey can continue with a brand-new look.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding how character appearance change mods work in Starbound, including the most popular mods, installation steps, and how they function under the hood.
character.json Filecharacter.json
"model": "customcharacter.model",
"textures": [
"customcharacter.texture1",
"customcharacter.texture2"
],
"animations": [
"customcharacter.animation1",
"customcharacter.animation2"
]
This file defines the character's appearance. You will need to replace the model, textures, and animations fields with your own custom assets.
Starbound mods work identically on Steam Deck because the game runs through Proton. However, the directory path differs:
/home/deck/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/common/Starbound/storage/
Use Desktop Mode to drop .pak files into the mods folder. The Character Creation NPC mod works perfectly on Deck’s 800p screen.
If you don’t want to use admin commands or cheat flags, the Character Creation NPC mod (by user "Quiqk" on the Chucklefish forums) is your best bet. Here’s exactly how it works.
These mods add a new item, NPC, or station that:
.player file..shipworld file (for ship locker images) and force a visual refresh.Example mods:
With a reliable appearance mod, you can edit nearly everything:
| Feature | Vanilla | Modded | |--------|---------|--------| | Hairstyle & Color | ❌ | ✅ | | Skin/Fur/Glow Color | ❌ | ✅ | | Eye Shape & Color | ❌ | ✅ | | Body Type (male/female) | ❌ | ✅ (most mods) | | Species (e.g., Human → Novakid) | ❌ | ⚠️ (some mods, but risky) | | Character Name | ❌ | ✅ (via separate mods) |
Important warning: Changing your species can break quest flags (e.g., the Apex storyline may not recognize your new race). Most appearance mods disable species switching to prevent save corruption. If a mod allows it, back up your player file first.
Cause: Racial armor mismatch. If you change from a human to an Avian, the game tries to render Avian head feathers on human armor assets.
Fix: Unequip all armor before changing appearance. After changing, re-equip. The game will recalculate the model.
"This mod introduces functionality to modify an existing character's aesthetic attributes, including hair style, skin tone, and gender. It operates by injecting a re-sizable UI panel accessible via a dedicated furniture item, ensuring that gameplay data such as inventory and progression remain intact during the customization process."