How to Install BMad

Complete guide to installing BMad in your project.

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Prerequisites

• Node.js 20+ (required for the installer)
• Git (recommended)
• AI-powered IDE (Claude Code, Cursor, Windsurf, or similar)

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Steps

1. Run the Installer

npx bmad-method install

2. Choose Installation Location

The installer will ask where to install BMad files. Options:

• Current directory (recommended for new projects)
• Subdirectory
• Custom path

3. Select Your AI Tools

Choose which AI tools you’ll be using:

• Claude Code
• Cursor
• Windsurf
• Other

The installer configures BMad for your selected tools.

4. Choose Modules

Select which modules to install:

Module	Purpose
BMM	Core methodology for software development
BMGD	Game development workflows
CIS	Creative intelligence and facilitation
BMB	Building custom agents and workflows

5. Add Custom Content (Optional)

If you have custom agents, workflows, or modules:

• Point to their location
• The installer will integrate them

6. Configure Settings

For each module, either:

• Accept recommended defaults (faster)
• Customize settings (more control)

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Verify Installation

After installation, verify by:

1. Checking the _bmad/ directory exists
2. Loading an agent in your AI tool
3. Running *menu to see available commands

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Directory Structure

your-project/
├── _bmad/
│   ├── bmm/            # Method module
│   │   ├── agents/     # Agent files
│   │   ├── workflows/  # Workflow files
│   │   └── config.yaml # Module config
│   ├── core/           # Core utilities
│   └── ...
├── _bmad-output/       # Generated artifacts
└── .claude/            # IDE configuration

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Configuration

Edit _bmad/[module]/config.yaml to customize:

output_folder: ./_bmad-output
user_name: Your Name
communication_language: english

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Troubleshooting

”Command not found: npx”

Install Node.js 20+:

brew install node

“Permission denied”

Check npm permissions:

npm config set prefix ~/.npm-global

Installer hangs

Try running with verbose output:

npx bmad-method install --verbose

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Related

• Quick Start Guide - Getting started with BMM
• Upgrade to V6 - Upgrading from previous versions
• Install Custom Modules - Adding custom content