Refreshed Main Menu 3 Announcement

Hey folks!

Since I first started working on the Refreshed Main Menu mod, I’ve learned a ton (and I’m still learning). The game itself is evolving too, especially with the ongoing rebranding and the introduction of the new main menu, which pushed me to redesign the mod earlier this year.

The new layout opens up a lot of space for creativity. With its more modern design, I’ve got more room to play around with visuals and features.

So, I think it’s time to start looking ahead. I want to share my plans for what comes next, show a few early concepts, and hear your thoughts on what you’d love to see in the next generation of Refreshed Main Menu.

I wish for the next version of Refreshed Main Menu to become the ultimate main menu override.

I want it to serve as the base and starting point for both players and creators.

Here’s the roadmap for the changes and new features I plan to bring in the coming months.

✨ Planned Features

STAGE 1 - FOUNDATION REFRESH

🔹 Redesigned Background System

Right now, all background images are baked into the main mod file, which makes the file size grow with each new image. I chose this approach for quality reasons (lossless images), but I’m now exploring a more modular system. The mod would shrink in size depending on how many backgrounds you actually use.

🔹 Visual Update

Minor visual tweaks are in the works to freshen up the UI without straying from the original look.

🔹 Better Accessibility

You can already toggle things like the news panel, family portrait, and background reroll with hotkeys, but I’m considering adding visible buttons for these actions, to make them easier to access.

STAGE 2 - SHARED CREATIVITY

🔹 Custom Background Support

This is one of the most requested features. It will allow you to mix and match different backgrounds from various creators all within one mod.

🔹 Background Sharing

You will be able to share your own backgrounds and download backgrounds from other players.

🔹 Creator Resources

Tutorials and templates to help modders and players turn screenshots into usable backgrounds and convert backgrounds from existing main menu overrides effortlessly.

STAGE 3 - PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

🔹 Toggleable Buttons

I’m also looking into letting you hide parts of the menu you don’t use. Want a cleaner layout without the Gallery or Play Scenario buttons? Or maybe you’d like to hide the Store and Events tabs? This option will give you a more minimal, personalized look.

🔹 Color Customization

Support for UI color tweaks via config files. You will be able to share your presets and download presets from others.

🔹 DLC Collection Screen

Showcase of your pack collection – display owned packs only or include unowned ones for comparison. You'll be able to access this screen by clicking the "Your Collection" button.

✨ New Design Sneak Peek (Concept)

Refreshed visuals with more accent colors and improved gradients.

Unwanted buttons (like the Gallery, Play Scenario, and Home/Store tabs) hidden from the menu.

Mock-up for the DLC Collection Screen.

The mod preview will be shared in stages with my supporting patrons.
Once all features are tested and ready, the mod will be released publicly.

Let me know what you think about these ideas! I’d love to hear your feedback, especially if there’s something new you’d like to see added to Refreshed Main Menu. Your input helps shape where this mod goes next. 🫶🏻