I'm wondering: when adding files to your mod folder directory, when are patch files required / when are they not required? Essentially, I am wondering what the criteria is and whether or not it is an actual requirement or simply a 'best practice' sort of thing. Thanks
technically patch files are not required ever, but not using patch files is called dirty editing which can break a lot of compatibility. patch files should not be used if the file they're patching does not exist
Best practice is, If the mod is for personal use, you don't need to worry about patches unless you have multiple mods installed. If you are making a mod for public release though you should always patch vanilla files. This will prevent any issues with you overwriting data that other mods try to edit.