How important is non-intrusive coding?

[Arkathorn]

In my coding utility mod, EndoxinAPI, I do a lot of rooting around in the code. So far, I've done this without modifying any of the game's source files, through a host of post-inits, pre-inits, debug commands, and other machinations. My question: Is it really worth it?

 

At this point, the functionality of the game is changed enough by EndoxinAPI that any compatibility issues that would arise from changing the source code will probably happen anyway, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain this principle of non-intrusive coding. So should I struggle on like this, or just start rewriting the source files to do my bidding?

[Mobbstar]

It is only important for not interfering with other mods that edit the same things. If you think that by using your API, other mods won't have to edit the things anymore, then non-intrusive coding is of no importance.

[Blueberrys]

Adding to that, it would also be easier to update your mod to match new official updates and dlc's. It's easier to update a few lines in your code than to mix and match entire files. Although, that depends on the assumption that those official updates will be (fairly) backward-compatible to begin with.

Edited April 7, 2016 by Blueberrys

[Mobbstar]

Adding to that, not overriding files lets game updates change unedited content. This is meaningless if you edit just about everything anyways, but if you only "extend" functions, then it still matters.