With 15 years as a tech and gaming writer, I’ve spent countless hours tweaking game mechanics, scripting hacks, and exploring memory editors to enhance single-player adventures.
From GameFAQs forums to modern trainer apps, Cheat Engine has been the modding gold standard, but its dated interface, steep learning curve, and compatibility quirks drive many to seek the best Cheat Engine alternatives.
Whether you’re a reverse-engineering pro or a casual gamer bypassing a grind, the right tool can redefine your gaming experience.
This guide is the ultimate resource for the best Cheat Engine alternatives, packed with hands-on insights from modding retro and modern titles.
I’ve curated nine top tools, each with detailed reviews, robust pros and cons, and real-world examples from my modding journey. New additions include an interactive tool selector, a step-by-step modding walkthrough, advanced tips for pros, and community-driven trends to make this a gold mine for modders. A comparison table, FAQs, and ethical modding advice round out this definitive guide.
Let’s dive in and level up your modding game.
Comparison Table: Best Cheat Engine Alternatives
| Tool | Platform | Best For | Key Features | Ease of Use | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WeMod | Windows, Android, iOS | Beginners, trainer users | Pre-made trainers, 1000+ games, cloud sync | Very Easy | Freemium |
| GameGuardian | Android (rooted
/virtual) |
Advanced Android modders | Real-time memory editing, speed hacks, Lua scripting | Moderate | Free |
| ArtMoney | Windows | Simple memory editing | Auto code replacement, table sharing | Easy | Free/Paid |
| Squalr | Windows | Open-source enthusiasts | Memory scanning, script sharing, no malware | Moderate | Free (Open Source) |
| Bit Slicer | macOS | Mac gamers and modders | Memory scanner, hex editor, variable locking | Moderate | Free |
| CoSMOS | Windows | Custom cheat creators | Memory scanning, scripting, guided tutorials | Easy | Free |
| Cheat-O-Matic | Windows | Retro game modders | Simple value editing, lightweight | Very Easy | Free |
| Scanmem/
GameConqueror |
Linux, macOS | Linux gamers and modders | Memory scanning, value locking, GUI option | Moderate | Free (Open Source) |
| TSearch | Windows | Classic game modding | Memory editing, code injection, retro focus | Moderate | Free |
Why Seek the Best Cheat Engine Alternatives?
Cheat Engine is a modding titan, offering memory scanning, debugging, and Lua scripting for single-player games. But its 2005-era interface is a relic, its complexity intimidates newcomers, and anti-cheat systems in some games flag it.
Past adware concerns with the installer (avoided via the Patreon version) also raise trust issues. The best Cheat Engine alternatives deliver modern UIs, broader platform support, and specialized features like trainers or Linux compatibility, making modding faster, safer, and more accessible.
Find Your Perfect Modding Tool: Interactive Selector
Not sure which of the Cheat Engine alternatives fits your needs? Answer these quick questions to get a personalized recommendation:
What platform do you game on?
- Windows, Android, iOS: WeMod or GameGuardian
- macOS: Bit Slicer
- Linux: Scanmem/GameConqueror
What’s your skill level?
- Beginner: WeMod, Cheat-O-Matic, ArtMoney
- Intermediate: CoSMOS, Bit Slicer
- Advanced: Squalr, GameGuardian, Scanmem
What type of games do you mod?
- Modern AAA: WeMod, CoSMOS
- Retro/Emulators: Cheat-O-Matic, TSearch
- Mobile: GameGuardian
- Free: Squalr, Bit Slicer, CoSMOS, Cheat-O-Matic
- Freemium/Paid: WeMod, ArtMoney
Top 9 Best Cheat Engine Alternatives: Detailed Reviews
1. WeMod: The Plug-and-Play Powerhouse
WeMod is the slickest of the best Cheat Engine alternatives, built for gamers who want instant cheats without hex headaches. It supports over 1,000 single-player games, from Starfield to Stardew Valley, with pre-configured trainers for infinite health, money, or XP.
The polished UI, cloud-synced settings, and cross-platform support (PC, Android, iOS) make it a fan favorite.
Real-World Example:- I used WeMod to mod Cyberpunk 2077, activating infinite eddies and crafting materials in seconds. This let me buy every iconic weapon without grinding. The mobile app lets me tweak values on my phone while playing on PC, a multitasking dream.
Pros:-
- Massive library with trainers for 1,000+ games, updated weekly.
- Modern, intuitive UI with hotkey support for in-game toggling.
- Cross-platform syncing across PC, Android, and iOS.
- Built-in anti-cheat bypass for single-player titles.
- Community-driven trainer requests for niche games.
- Safe, vetted, and free of adware or malware.
- Offline mode for modding without internet.
Cons:-
- Limited to trainer-based cheats; no raw memory editing for custom hacks.
- Premium subscription ($5-$10/month) needed for full access and priority updates.
- No multiplayer or online game support due to ban risks.
- Occasional trainer delays for newly released titles.
- Minimal scripting options for advanced modders.
Personal Take: WeMod is my go-to for quick, hassle-free modding. It’s like ordering takeout—fast and reliable, but not for crafting gourmet hacks. Casual modders will love it.
2. GameGuardian: Android’s Modding Titan
GameGuardian is a powerhouse among the best Cheat Engine alternatives for Android, offering real-time memory editing, speed hacks, and Lua scripting.
Designed for rooted devices or virtual environments (e.g., Parallel Space), it’s ideal for offline games and cautious online tweaks. Its interface is more approachable than Cheat Engine’s, with fuzzy search and encrypted value scanning.
Real-World Example: Testing Genshin Impact offline, I used GameGuardian to boost Primogems, pinpointing the value with fuzzy search in minutes. I also applied a speed hack to zip through exploration and scripted a resource auto-collector for Clash of Clans (offline server).
Pros:-
- Real-time editing for health, currency, and more in Android games.
- Advanced features like speed hacks, encrypted value scanning, and Lua scripting.
- Works on non-rooted devices via virtual environments.
- Active community sharing scripts, tutorials, and cheat tables.
- Free, ad-free, and donation-supported.
- Supports 32-bit and 64-bit apps, including emulators.
- Regular updates for new Android versions and games.
Cons:-
- Steep learning curve for scripting and advanced searches.
- High ban risk in online games, requiring VPNs or private servers.
- Setup for non-rooted devices is complex (virtual apps needed).
- Clunky interface on smaller screens or low-end devices.
- Android-only, with no PC or iOS support.
- Potential stability issues on newer Android versions.
Testimonial:- “GameGuardian turned my Android gaming into a sandbox. I scripted a hack for Honkai Star Rail offline—it felt like I was a game dev!” – Priya, mobile modder
Personal Take: GameGuardian is a modder’s dream on Android, but it demands patience. Its power is addictive, but I stick to single-player titles to avoid bans.
3. ArtMoney: The Lightweight Classic
ArtMoney, a veteran among the best Cheat Engine alternatives, is a Windows-based memory editor known for its simplicity and compatibility with retro and modern games.
It’s perfect for tweaking health or currency. The free version is robust, while the paid “PRO” version ($29.90) adds stealth mode and batch editing.
Real-World Example: In 2018, I used ArtMoney to mod The Witcher 3, editing my gold to buy every Gwent card. A community cheat table for XP boosts worked across patches, saving me hours.
Pros:-
- Beginner-friendly interface with guided value scanning.
- Lightweight (under 10MB), ideal for older PCs.
- Auto code replacement for recurring edits.
- Supports obscure and retro games (e.g., DOS titles).
- Table-sharing community for pre-made cheats.
- Free version covers most modding needs.
- Minimal system resource usage during scans.
Cons:-
- Lacks advanced scripting or debugging compared to Cheat Engine.
- Paid version feels overpriced for marginal features.
- Smaller community, with fewer updates for new games.
- Windows-only, no mobile or macOS support.
- Dated UI, though functional for quick edits.
- Limited support for 64-bit games in free version.
Testimonial:- “ArtMoney is my retro modding staple. I used it to max out stats in Diablo II—so simple and fast!” – Mike, classic gamer
Personal Take: ArtMoney is a trusty pocketknife—simple and effective for quick jobs. I use it for retro titles like Diablo II, but pros will want more depth.
4. Squalr: The Open-Source Prodigy
Squalr is a rising star among the best Cheat Engine alternatives, offering an open-source memory editor for Windows. Available on GitHub, it features fast memory scanning, script sharing, and a community cheat client. Its no-install, adware-free design is perfect for ethical modders.
Real-World Example: I tested Squalr on Elden Ring, editing my rune count to level up fast. The scanner was lightning-quick, and a community script for infinite stamina worked flawlessly. Running it from a USB drive was a nice touch.
Pros:-
- Open-source, with transparent code on GitHub.
- No adware, malware, or installation required.
- Multi-threaded memory scanning for speed.
- Community client for downloading pre-made scripts.
- Supports complex hacks like teleportation and stat editing.
- Active dev team with regular updates.
- Customizable UI for power users.
Cons:-
- Beta UI can crash or feel unpolished.
- Steeper learning curve than WeMod or ArtMoney.
- Limited documentation, relying on community forums.
- Windows-only, with no mobile or macOS plans.
- Smaller game support than WeMod’s trainer library.
- No built-in anti-cheat bypass for protected games.
Testimonial:- “Squalr’s open-source vibe is perfect for coders. I built a teleport hack for Skyrim and shared it with my modding group!” – Liam, programmer
Personal Take: Squalr is the open-source dream I’ve wanted for years—clean and coder-friendly. It’s not beginner-ready, but it’s a gem for techies.
5. Bit Slicer: macOS’s Modding Lifeline
Bit Slicer is a lifesaver for Mac gamers, standing out as one of the best Cheat Engine alternatives for macOS. This open-source tool offers memory scanning, hex editing, and variable locking, optimized for Apple’s Mach kernel. It supports games like Slay the Spire and Civilization VI.
Real-World Example: Playing Slay the Spire on my MacBook, I used Bit Slicer to edit my gold mid-run, unlocking every relic. Variable locking kept my health maxed for risky builds.
Pros:-
- Native macOS support, optimized for Apple hardware.
- Open-source, free, and bloatware-free.
- Features memory scanning, hex editing, and variable freezing.
- Lightweight (under 5MB), great for older Macs.
- Community-driven updates and script sharing.
- Supports debugging for advanced modders.
- Works with Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.
Cons:-
- Mac-only, with no Windows or mobile support.
- Requires technical knowledge for complex edits.
- Smaller community than Cheat Engine or WeMod.
- No pre-made trainers, requiring manual tweaks.
- Limited compatibility with heavily protected games.
- No official tutorials, relying on user guides.
Testimonial:- “Bit Slicer made modding Hades on my Mac so easy. I tweaked my boons and felt like a god!” – Sarah, Mac gamer
Personal Take: Bit Slicer is a rare win for Mac modders. It’s not as robust as Cheat Engine, but it’s a staple for my MacBook gaming.
6. CoSMOS: The Custom Cheat Crafter
CoSMOS, developed by Cheat Happens, is a versatile memory-scanning tool among the best Cheat Engine alternatives. It balances beginner-friendly design with advanced scripting, perfect for creating custom cheats. Guided tutorials and cheat table libraries support new releases like Baldur’s Gate 3.
Real-World Example: I used CoSMOS to mod Elden Ring’s runes, creating a cheat table that auto-refilled flasks. The tutorials helped me script a one-hit-kill hack in 20 minutes, shared on Discord.
Pros:-
- Beginner-friendly interface with step-by-step guides.
- Supports memory scanning, scripting, and cheat tables.
- Regular updates for new and popular games.
- Active community sharing custom scripts.
- Free, ad-free, and lightweight.
- Works on low-spec PCs with minimal resources.
- Exportable cheat tables for sharing.
Cons:-
- Smaller game library than WeMod’s trainers.
- Advanced scripting requires coding knowledge.
- Windows-only, no mobile or macOS support.
- No built-in anti-cheat bypass, needing caution.
- Less robust debugging than Cheat Engine.
- Occasional bugs in complex scripts.
Testimonial:- “CoSMOS let me create a custom cheat for Starfield in under an hour. The tutorials are a lifesaver!” – Jake, modding newbie
Personal Take: CoSMOS is perfect for gamers who want to create cheats without a coding degree. It’s not as polished as WeMod, but it’s a toolkit staple.
7. Cheat-O-Matic: The Retro Modder’s Friend
Cheat-O-Matic ( Download Here) is a minimalist Windows tool among the best Cheat Engine alternatives, designed for quick value editing. At under 1MB, it’s a ’90s staple, ideal for retro games or emulators. Its barebones interface focuses on single values like lives or scores.
Real-World Example: I used Cheat-O-Matic to mod Sonic Adventure 2 on a PC emulator, boosting my ring count to 999. The “search, edit, lock” process took seconds, letting me perfect my Chao garden.
Pros:-
- Extremely lightweight and fast, ideal for low-spec PCs.
- Dead-simple interface for beginners or quick edits.
- Works with retro games, emulators, and early 2000s titles.
- Completely free, with no ads or bloatware.
- No installation required; runs from a single executable.
- Reliable for single-value edits like lives or currency.
- Nostalgic appeal for veteran modders.
Cons:-
- Limited to basic value editing; no scripting or debugging.
- No support for modern, complex games or 64-bit apps.
- Windows-only, with no mobile or macOS support.
- No community or updates since the early 2000s.
- Minimal features compared to Cheat Engine or WeMod.
- Struggles with encrypted or dynamic values.
Testimonial:- “Cheat-O-Matic is my go-to for Pokemon Blue. It’s so simple, I taught my kid to mod!” – Emma, retro gamer
Personal Take: Cheat-O-Matic is a nostalgic time capsule for retro modding. It’s too basic for modern games, but for Pokemon on an emulator, it’s a quick win.
8. Scanmem/GameConqueror: Linux’s Modding Champion
Scanmem, with its GUI frontend GameConqueror, is a powerful open-source memory editor among the best Cheat Engine alternatives for Linux (with macOS support).
It offers memory scanning, value locking, and basic scripting for games like Stellaris. Its command-line roots suit coders, while GameConqueror’s GUI welcomes newcomers.
Real-World Example: On my Ubuntu setup, I used GameConqueror to mod Hollow Knight, editing my Geo count to unlock all charms. The GUI made scanning easy, and I locked the value across saves.
Pros:-
- Open-source, free, and actively maintained on GitHub.
- Native Linux support, with macOS compatibility.
- GameConqueror GUI simplifies scanning for beginners.
- Supports memory scanning, value locking, and basic scripts.
- Lightweight and optimized for Linux environments.
- Works with Steam Proton for Windows games on Linux.
- Community-driven updates and documentation.
Cons:-
- Command-line Scanmem is intimidating for non-coders.
- Smaller community than Cheat Engine or WeMod.
- Limited game compatibility compared to Windows tools.
- No mobile or Windows support.
- No pre-made trainers or cheat tables.
- GUI (GameConqueror) lacks polish and can be buggy.
Testimonial:- “GameConqueror let me mod Crusader Kings III on Linux. It’s a game-changer for my Ubuntu setup!” – Raj, Linux gamer
Personal Take: Scanmem/GameConqueror is a lifesaver for Linux modders. It’s not as slick as WeMod, but it’s the best for my Ubuntu rig.
9. TSearch: The Retro Hacker’s Choice
TSearch is a classic Windows memory editor among the best Cheat Engine alternatives, popular in the early 2000s for code injection and memory editing. It’s lightweight and excels at modding older games or emulators, with value scanning and breakpoint setting.
Real-World Example: I used TSearch to mod Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, editing my credits to buy every lightsaber upgrade. Breakpoints helped find dynamic values faster than Cheat Engine.
Pros:-
- Lightweight (under 2MB) and fast for older PCs.
- Supports code injection and breakpoint debugging.
- Works with retro games and emulators (e.g., PS2, GameCube).
- Completely free, with no ads or bloatware.
- Simple interface for basic memory editing.
- Reliable for single-player, unprotected games.
- No installation required; runs portably.
Cons:-
- No updates since the mid-2000s, limiting modern game support.
- Windows-only, with no mobile or macOS compatibility.
- Limited to basic memory editing; no advanced scripting.
- Small, inactive community with no new cheat tables.
- Struggles with 64-bit games or encrypted values.
- Outdated UI feels clunky by 2025 standards.
Testimonial:- “TSearch is my secret weapon for Morrowind. It’s old-school but gets the job done!” – Chris, retro modder
Personal Take: TSearch is a nostalgic relic for retro modding. It’s not versatile for modern titles, but for Half-Life, it’s lean and mean.
Which Tool Fits Your Modding Needs?
The best Cheat Engine alternatives suit specific scenarios:
- RPG Grinding: WeMod’s trainers skip grinds in Elden Ring or Cyberpunk 2077 with cheats for money or XP.
- Mobile Gaming: GameGuardian excels for Android titles like Genshin Impact, with deep memory editing and speed hacks.
- Retro Emulation: Cheat-O-Matic and TSearch are ideal for Pokemon Emerald or Final Fantasy VII on emulators.
- Mac Modding: Bit Slicer is the go-to for macOS games like Slay the Spire.
- Linux Gaming: Scanmem/GameConqueror shines for Stellaris via Steam Proton.
- Custom Cheats: CoSMOS and Squalr offer scripting for hacks like auto-looting in Skyrim.
- Budget Modding: ArtMoney, Cheat-O-Matic, and CoSMOS provide robust free versions.
Step-by-Step: Modding Stardew Valley with WeMod
New to modding? Here’s a beginner-friendly walkthrough using WeMod to mod Stardew Valley’s gold, perfect for skipping early-game farming:
- Download WeMod: Grab it from WeMod.com. Install and create a free account.
- Launch WeMod and Game: Open WeMod, select Stardew Valley from the library, and launch the game via Steam or Epic.
- Activate Trainer: In WeMod, click “Play” to load the trainer. You’ll see options like “Unlimited Money” or “Infinite Stamina.”
- Tweak Gold: In-game, check your gold (e.g., 500G). In WeMod, enable “Unlimited Money” or set a custom gold value (e.g., 10,000G). Hit the hotkey (e.g., F1).
- Test and Save: Buy items to confirm the gold updated. Save your game, but keep a backup in case of glitches.
- Explore More: Try other cheats like “Fast Crop Growth” to experiment with farm layouts.
Pro Tip: Start with small edits to avoid save corruption. WeMod’s trainers are safe, but always back up your saves!
Advanced Modding Techniques for Pros
For seasoned modders, the best Cheat Engine alternatives unlock next-level hacks. Here are tips to elevate your game:
Lua Scripting with GameGuardian: Use GameGuardian’s Lua engine to automate hacks. I scripted a loop in Genshin Impact to auto-collect resources, saving hours. Check community forums for sample scripts.
Code Injection with Squalr: Squalr’s code injection lets you modify game logic, like adding teleportation in Skyrim. Study assembly basics to master this.
Breakpoint Debugging with TSearch: Use TSearch’s breakpoints to find dynamic values (e.g., health in Knights of the Old Republic). It’s slower but precise for tricky games.
Encrypted Value Scanning: Tools like GameGuardian and CoSMOS handle encrypted values in modern games. Use fuzzy search to narrow down shifting stats like mana.
Resource: Join modding Discords or subreddits like r/CheatEngine for script-sharing and pro tips.
Community Insights and Modding Trends in 2025
Modding is thriving, with communities on Reddit, Discord, and Nexus Mods buzzing about the best Cheat Engine alternatives.
Recent trends include:-
Trainer Boom: WeMod’s trainer library is exploding, with 2025 seeing new support for Dragon Age: The Veilguard and Avowed. Modders love the plug-and-play ease.
Mobile Modding Surge: GameGuardian dominates Android modding, with Discord groups sharing scripts for Honkai Star Rail and Wuthering Waves (offline only).
Open-Source Rise: Squalr and Scanmem are gaining traction as modders prioritize malware-free tools. GitHub contributions are soaring.
Retro Revival: Cheat-O-Matic and TSearch are seeing niche love for emulated PS2 and GameCube games, fueled by retro gaming hype.
Community Tip: Modders on r/GameModding recommend pairing WeMod with CoSMOS for hybrid workflows—trainers for quick tweaks, CoSMOS for custom scripts.
Tips for Safe and Ethical Modding
Modding is fun but risky. Here’s how to mod responsibly:
Single-Player Only: Modding online games like Fortnite risks bans. Use WeMod or ArtMoney for offline titles.
Back Up Saves: I lost a Skyrim save to a bad edit—always back up first.
Trusted Sources: Download from official sites or GitHub (e.g., Squalr, Bit Slicer) to avoid malware.
Use a VPN: For mobile modding with GameGuardian, a VPN adds protection for offline testing.
Check Terms: Even single-player modding may violate game terms. Review developer policies.
Sandbox Testing: Use a virtual machine for risky mods to protect your system.
FAQ’s
Q: What are the safest Cheat Engine alternatives for 2025?
A: WeMod, Squalr, and Bit Slicer are safe when downloaded from official sources. Scan all downloads with antivirus software.
Q: Can I use these tools for online games?
A: Modding online games violates terms and risks bans. Stick to single-player titles with WeMod or ArtMoney.
Q: What are the best free Cheat Engine alternatives?
A: Squalr, Bit Slicer, CoSMOS, Cheat-O-Matic, and Scanmem/GameConqueror are free and robust.
Q: Which tool is easiest for beginners?
A: WeMod’s trainers and Cheat-O-Matic’s simple interface are perfect for newbies.
Q: Are there Cheat Engine alternatives for macOS or Linux?
A: Bit Slicer for macOS and Scanmem/GameConqueror for Linux are top picks.
Q: How do I avoid save corruption while modding?
A: Back up saves, test on duplicates, and use tools like CoSMOS for reversible edits.
My Final Verdict
Having modded everything from Fallout: New Vegas to Starfield, I’ve seen modding evolve from clunky hex editors to polished trainers.
The best Cheat Engine alternatives in 2025 cater to every modder: WeMod’s ease, GameGuardian’s depth, Squalr’s open-source promise, and Scanmem’s Linux prowess. My top pick? WeMod for its accessibility and massive library, but Squalr wins for ethical design and coder appeal. Retro fans will love Cheat-O-Matic and TSearch for nostalgic kicks.
What’s your go-to modding tool? Share your favorite or a killer cheat table in the comments—try questions like “What’s your best WeMod trainer for RPGs?” or “Got a GameGuardian script for Genshin Impact?” I’m always down to swap tips with fellow modders.
Happy modding, and may your stats stay maxed!
