Paid mods are controverse discussed.
Are the something you appreciate or not?
If I think the mod is of sufficient quality and the price is reasonable then yes. If I think the mod is of poor quality or is too expensive then I pass. I don't think the modding scene will implode just because a few modders are asking for a small remuneration for their time and effort.
I've already paid for the platform then why shouldn't I pay for any addition content? It's an unrealistic expectation to ask people to spend their (often considerable spare) time and effort into creating something for free.
What about the copyrights problem by using some elses copyrights or another ones work for free to make your own paid content? What about copyrights owners permissions?
If the copyright owner gives their permission and is made fully aware of the use of their work in a payware mod, then OK. If not, then it's plagiarism and is absolutely not OK.
Do they have to be marked as commercial content?
I.O. to protect those of us from providing paid mods with their work and ressources that are not marked as commercial content.
Yes. Clarification is important and it would avoid any misunderstanding between parties.
Is it advertising for a paid product, putting them into threads like these : what are you working on
I think a section of the forum should be categorised as paid mods. This would avoid confusion in WIP threads and any off topic discussions regarding payware etc.
What are the long term consequences?
The games I've purchased will be further enriched by content provided by modding groups and they will be remunerated for their efforts.
Or I can just enjoy my software with the free content that's available.