I am thinking of downloading some mods for my F1 Challenge game. I found them at simracingworld.com. The mods are different carsets, car livery and track updates. I have never downloaded anything other then official downloads from the game manufacturer.
Any thoughts on third party mods and downloads? Are they safe and how is the quality? What should I be looking for in searching for or choosing mods for any PC game?

Third party mods are great. Desert combat for BF1942 is one of the best, Counter strike is also one of those which was a third party. the quality ranges from good to awful, and look for the modding community for the said game.

It can be pretty hit or miss. Fanmade mods vary completely in quality. The best way to judge is if the download site shows the # of downloads for each file. Stick to the popular ones, and the ones that have multiple versions. If its a retail mod, no need to worry. Do try each mod individually, some do cause conflicts, and if any file gets overwritten, back them up. I tried to mod my copy of system shock last week, and the end result was invisible enemies. Luckily, I kept the backup.


Also look into online head to head play if you want to get more milage out of older games.