What you need before you start
Mods only work with the PC version, and only in single-player. Before installing anything, back up your game folder — restoring it afterward is far cheaper than re-downloading 100 GB.
- Script Hook V — the library that lets scripts run.
- Script Hook V .NET — a runtime for .NET-based mods.
- OpenIV — an editor for the game's archive files.
The mods folder saves your game files
OpenIV can create a virtual mods folder where modified archives are stored. The game reads from there instead of the originals, while the original files stay untouched. That means going back online is as simple as renaming the folder — instantly restoring a clean game.
Installation order
Install mods one at a time and launch the game after each step.
- Copy dinput8.dll and ScriptHookV.dll into the game's root folder.
- Create a scripts folder if one doesn't already exist.
- Place .asi files in the root folder, and .dll/.cs script files in the scripts folder.
- Install textures and models through OpenIV into the mods folder.
- After a game update, Script Hook V needs to be updated as well.
What to do if the game crashes
Most crashes are caused by an outdated Script Hook V after a patch, or by two mods conflicting over the same file. Remove mods one by one, starting with the most recently installed — that usually pinpoints the conflict within minutes.