Best way to structure large download categories in JDownloads for game-related content sites?

[kaileyketchum]

I'm currently building a Joomla-based site using JDownloads to manage a large collection of categorized files and resources. The structure includes multiple content types such as tutorials, media assets, and community submissions.

One of the sections is intended to organize content similar to geo dash windows, where users expect fast navigation, clear categorization, and minimal clicks to reach files.

Right now, I'm trying to decide the best architecture for scaling the download system without making it confusing for users.

My current setup idea:

Main categories for broad topics
Subcategories for specific content types
Tag-based filtering for quick search
Restricted access levels for certain files

However, I'm unsure if this structure is optimal for performance and usability in JDownloads.

I have a few questions for experienced users:

Is it better to rely more on categories or tags when scaling beyond 1,000+ downloads?
Does enabling too many subcategories affect performance or just usability?
What is the best practice for handling mixed media types (documents, archives, images) in one system?
Are there any recommended templates or layout tweaks to improve user navigation?

Any advice from people who have handled large JDownloads implementations would be appreciated.

[ColinM]

Probably best to use jD categories and sub-categories.  TAGs are better for a small set.  Actually you can use both. Use Categories and sub-cats for the main structure and add specific tags
There is an article in the documentation entitled Tags support in jDownloads which may help.
https://www.jdownloads.net/documentation?view=article&id=285:tags-support-in-jdownloads2&catid=27

Broadly speaking jDownloads is based on using Categories and Sub-Categories. Basically Categories and sub-cats are implemented  for fast access.

The actual Download type makes no difference but of course larger items take longer to download, but these days this is hardly noticeable except for very large downloads that are several megabytes in size.

Enabling many many subcategories make almost no difference.  If you had a sub-catoregory with several hundred Downloads that might be noticeable, so in such a circumstance use more sub-categories.
Best wishes
ColinM