Saw countless videos of the modded version of Grand Theft Auto 5 on YouTube or had an in-person experience? Regardless of where it happened, it must’ve been a sign, whether you’ve gotten bored with the default version of GTA 5 or not. The reason is simple. Continuing to progress through the modified version of the game takes fun to another level. Keep in mind, the guide below only applies to the single-player version of the game. Even if you succeed in modding multiplayer, it’ll get you banned. You can do it safely with MP mods such as FiveM, but can’t play on regular servers with it. With that said, let’s demonstrate how to install GTA 5 mods in 5 steps.
1. Things to do before you install GTA 5 mods
To increase the chances of successful modding of GTA 5, it’s recommended you do this:
1. Start fresh
Begin the process with a clean, legit, and up-to-date version of Grand Theft Auto V.
2. Delete main mod files (Alternative)
If you don’t want to start from scratch, go to the GTA 5 root folder and delete these 3 files: dinput8.dll, ScriptHookV.dll, and OpenIV.asi.
3. Make sure you can unZIP archives
Windows 10 has a built-in utility. Alternatively, install software such as 7-Zip or WinZip.
4. Read and troubleshoot
Read and study the readme.txt files in the root folder, mod descriptions, or topics on modding forums. Additionally, almost all mods use a hotkey for turning it on or off, which you’ll need to find there.
2. Download necessary files before you install GTA 5 mods
The vast majority of GTA 5 mods require the first two utilities to function. A decent number of mods also ask that you install one or more of the last 3. Here are 5 utilities typically needed for the installation of GTA 5 mods:
1. ScriptHookV
ScriptHookV enables loading scripts for GTA V, as well as loading functions from .asi plugins. The utility typically comes bundled with Asi Loader and Native Trainer tools.
How to install ScriptHookV?
After downloading, extract the contents of the BIN folder to your GTA V root folder.
The default root folder for GTA V on Steam is: “C:\Program Files\Steam\SteamApps\common\Grand Theft Auto V\“
2. OpenIV
OpenIV allows the functionality of adding or modifying archives for GTA V.
How to install OpenIV?
Extract the contents anywhere you want, then run the executable/installer file. When offered, install all of the ASI Managers.
3. ScriptHookVDotNet (Optional)
ScriptHookVDotNet adds a bonus functionality of enabling scripts that are written in .NET language inside GTA V. It requires ScriptHookV to function.
How to install ScriptHookVDotNet?
From the archive you downloaded, extract the two files, ScriptHookVDotNet2.dll and ScriptHookVDotNet.asi, to the GTA V root folder.
4. RAGE Plugin Hook
This utility has the same functionality as the one above. The two differences are:
- It’s standalone e.g., doesn’t require ScriptHookV.
- It works off a custom launcher, so you’ll have to install it rather than copying files to the root.
5. GTAV LUA Plugin (Optional)
GTAV LUA Plugin is a plugin that makes ScriptHookV capable of enabling scripts written in the .LUA language.
How to install GTA V LUA Plugin?
Extract the scripts folder and the LUA.asi file to the root folder of Grand Theft Auto V.
3. Where to download GTA 5 mods?
Although there are mods all over the Internet, we recommend sticking to these 3 reputable websites:
- GTA5-Mods.com
- Dev-C.com
- OpenIV.com
4. Types of GTA 5 mods you’ll encounter
Almost all mods for GTA 5 fall into 3 categories:
1. Resource mods
These mods visually alter resources in GTA 5. Some also/only alter the functionality of in-game resources. They can be:
1. Replacement resources
Obviously, these require you to replace the default GTA V resources. We recommend you make a backup of the original file. You can rename it by adding -old or -default to its name or create a new folder and place original files there.
2. Add-on resources
With these, you don’t have to replace original files. You install them similarly to real DLCs, as an addition to the base game. Each mod will have specific instructions, but generally, this is how it works:
- Place the downloaded and extracted mod files here:
GTA root folder/mods/update/x64/dlcpacks/<name of your mod>/dlc.rpf - Enable the mod by adding it to the list of DLCs by opening this file with a text editor:
GTA root folder/mods/update/update.rpf/common/data/dlclist.xml - Scroll down to the bottom of the file, and add an entry like this:
<Item>dlcpacks:\<name of your mod></Item> - Tip. Even if instructed, modifying the extratitleupdatedata.meta file isn’t obligatory.
- To force the game to support more add-ons, you’ll most likely have to update the gameconfig.xml file to a newer version. You can find the file inside:
GTA root folder/mods/update/update.rpf/common/data/ - Tip. It’s best if you read the mod description and follow a recommended link. However, you can also search for “gameconfig“ on the GTA modding websites we recommend below.
2. Scripts
Scripts are libraries that can execute any code, as long as it’s supported.
3. Prepackaged mods
Technically, they consist of the two types above but are in form of an archive for ease of use. They’re installed by double-clicking the executable, which extracts the files into the correct locations, rather than by copying files manually.
If you want to know what a GTA V mod looks like, have a look at this stunning video.
5. Common file types for GTA 5 mods
Here are some of the file extensions for GTA V mods you’ll encounter regularly:
1. .ASI
Scripts for GTA V use the .asi extension. They are almost always copied to the root folder for GTA V. However if the mod states that the .asi file was written in LUA, place the files into the GTA root folder/scripts/addins folder.
2. .DLL, .CS, .VB
These 3 extensions are usually associated with the ScriptHookVDotNet utility. As such, they should be copied to the scripts folder inside the root GTA V folder. However, if the mod description states that the .dll file was designed for RAGE Plugin Hook, paste it into the plugins folder in the root GTA folder.
3. .OIV
The .oiv extension belongs to prepackaged mods. You usually need to have OpenIV installed, then double-click the file to begin the installation process.
Image Credit: DubStepZz / YouTube