Grand Theft Auto V is not only one of the most popular video games of all time but also a platform for an incredible number of modifications. These mods can significantly improve the gameplay, add new features, improve graphics, and even change the game itself beyond recognition. Today, we will look at several popular GTA 5 mods and tell you how to install them.
Script Hook V
Script Hook V is the main tool for many other mods in GTA V. It allows you to run .Net scripts in the game, which allows you to use custom mods and extensions.
If you played Skyrim with mods, you probably noticed that such a feature as the Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch is mandatory for literally all modifications. In turn, Script Hook is almost the same, but only for GTA V. This mod is mandatory for most script-based modifications and is necessary for them to work correctly. So start your GTA upgrade path by downloading this modification, even if you do not need it.
Script Hook V does not work with GTA Online since all custom scripts are turned off as soon as it detects that you are connecting to online mode. This way, you won’t get banned if you use this mod during a regular GTA V installation.
OpenIV
If you want to create your modifications rather than use others, OpenIV is the tool for you. It is the perfect tool for those who want to change the game itself and edit textures, sounds or other elements. OpenIV has many features that make it a must-have for creating and modifying content.
Menyoo PC
Another similar tool is Menyoo. It is a bit simpler than the previous one because it already has ready-made presets and features, so if programming languages or design skills are not for you, then Menyoo does not care. With this mod, you can change the game world, create your scenes, add cars, weapons, NPCs, additional objects, etc.
NaturalVision Evolved
This is one of the most popular graphics mods for GTA V. NaturalVision Evolved improves the game’s visuals by adding more detailed textures, improved lighting and shadows, and realistic weather conditions.
If your PC is ready for a crash test, then NaturalVision Evolved will be a great testing ground. Why? Since the mod improves graphics, it means that the load on the GPU and processor will be much greater than with the default (vanilla) build of GTA V, even taking into account the latest updates.
NaturalVision powers maximum performance from the game engine as much as is permissible. Optionally, you can use medium or low presets, but as practice shows, they can also cause FPS drops and crashes on weak PCs.
GTA V Redux
A mod for a wider and more accessible use (simply replacing NaturalVision Evolved) will be GTA V Redux. The mod includes improved textures, new animations and improved physics, which makes the car and characters more realistic. It also adds new lighting effects and improves details on the streets and the city’s atmosphere, ultimately giving a completely new visual experience. In return, your PC will not be as loaded as in the case of NaturalVision Evolved, so if you need a fresh look at the graphics, then here is the optimal solution for you.
Remember that graphics mods do not work in GTA Online due to the fair play policy. Some elements of the original game are poorly visible and are “boosted” by new mods. However, not everyone uses modifications, so this contradicts fair gameplay. So feel free to use it in a single-player, but not online. Fortunately, if you have installed Script Hook V, all modifications will be automatically disabled when logging into online servers.
Where to Look for Mods?
There are several well-known platforms and websites where you can find mods for GTA V. Among them:
- Nexus Mods;
- FiveMods;
- GTA5-Mods.com;
- GTAGarage.
This is another popular mod search site specifically focused on GTA V. Its analog is GTAGarage, which has an older build and slightly lower popularity compared to others.
Nexus Mods and FiveMods are optimal platforms. However, Nexus Mods is a real titan of modding. It has a huge library of mods that covers not only GTA V but also many other games. One of the main advantages is a convenient program that automatically searches for the necessary game folders and then installs mods without your intervention.
Mods on Nexus Mods often include detailed installation instructions and a description of the functions that often accompany mods on Nexus. Installing mods may vary slightly depending on the specific modification, but the basic steps are usually similar.
- Go to the site offering the mod and download its file. Mods usually come in archives (e.g., .zip or .rar).
- Use WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract the mod files.
- It is always recommended that you make a backup copy of the game folders so that you can restore the original files in case of errors.
- Most mods require Script Hook V or other modifications. Modders always post a list of additional files that you need to have for this.
- Move the mod files to the appropriate folders. Mods usually need to be moved to specific folders in the GTA V directory. This can be the scripts folder, mods, or another one specified in the instructions. Alternatively, use programs that do this for you.
After installing all the files, launch GTA V and make sure the mod works correctly. If something goes wrong, you can always delete the mod or try to reinstall it. Good thing you made a backup copy of the game folders, right?
Mods and Bans: What’s New Safe Is It?
Using mods in a single-player is safe and will not result in an account ban, as long as you do not interfere with the multiplayer mode. If you play in single-player mode, then using mods does not cause any problems.
Rockstar Games does not officially prohibit mods for single-player, and you can enjoy all the features they offer. Mods such as graphics improvements, adding new cars or custom missions will not result in an account ban, as they do not affect the multiplayer mode.
Rockstar actively bans cheaters and script-abusers who use mods to gain an unfair advantage. Mods that interfere with multiplayer gameplay, such as cheats, weapon modifications, immortality or any other unfair improvements, may result in sanctions.