[Replicant]

I agree with Cellarius that it depends on the site, what they need in the terms of mods or if the default software meets those needs without mods. Whether it be a classified ads mod or a download manager or whatever. Every forum has it's niche and will need different mods based on that niche. Of course you already know that but for the sake of other readers who don't, I figured I would elaborate.

The one thing I do think is needed for vb4 is a responsive style to cater to mobile users with a nicer interface than the mobile style.

I myself have become so used to the vb5 interface that I feel like vb4 is lacking features to be used for a modern site. I think going forward for a new site, vb5 would be the best choice in that the interface is more modern, most features people use are implemented or can be fairly easily, and is coded using modern coding conventions.

I do agree also that VB5 has matured into a solid product and is easy to modify once familiar with the API. The new hooks system is also a plus for more serious mods albeit the hooks have to added manually which for the time being is a maintenance issue but if there aren't too many, is no big deal for just one or two sites.