Tools Needed to Install Mods

Unpacking archives

Downloaded mods are usually stored in .zip, .rar or .7z archives. While most .zip files can be opened in Windows by default, .rar or .7z requires external tools. Commonly used tools are 7-Zip (free and open source) or WinRAR (proprietary).

Models, Textures and Audio Files

Any mods that change original game files, for example vehicles, pedestrians, sounds and textures or models in general are installed using OpenIV.

When using OpenIV, it is recommended to create a mods folder. We provide guides with more information regarding the installation of vehicles and textures.

Scripts

Script mods usually only need to be moved to specific directories. However, they require different hooks to work. Commonly used hooks include Script Hook V, Script Hook V .NET and RAGE Plugin Hook. Take a look at the script's description or readme file to see which hook(s) are necessary.

Editing configuration files

The game uses .ymt or .meta files for data entries, such as peds, vehicles or weapons. These files use the .xml format, though .ymt files are encrypted and must be exported using OpenIV before they can be read. Many script mods include .ini or .xml files for configuration.

Most configuration files can be modified without requiring any further steps. Files can be modified using any plain text editor, for example Windows' default Editor or more extensive editors like Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code, which can include tools for formatting and validating to prevent errors. Rich text editors such as Word or Wordpad will not work.