GTA 6 Map Modding Guide: What to Expect
GTA 6 map modding isn't a thing yet, but it's fairly easy to see where it's heading. This is the realistic roadmap for GTA 6 modding toolchains, what to learn now, and where the community will end up.
GTA 6 Roleplay Server Map Guide
The RP community created full-fledged parallel universes within GTA 5's Los Santos. GTA 6 will receive the same treatment - only larger in scale, denser, and starting with a much better foundation. This is what the RP server map scene will look like when the toolchain releases.
GTA 6 PC Release and the Future of Map Modding
Console first, PC later, then mods trickle in after that. That's how it's been with every Rockstar title these past few years. Here's what that means for GTA 6 modding.
What is an MLO? GTA Map Modding Glossary
"MLO" is one of the most misused acronyms in the GTA modding community. What does it actually stand for, where did it originate, and why should you care about it for GTA 6?
OpenIV: A History
OpenIV is the editor that launched the modern GTA modding scene. Here's its history - including the 2017 Take-Two cease-and-desist that nearly killed it.
CodeWalker: An Editor That Defined the Scene
CodeWalker is the visual editor that allowed serious GTA 5 map mods to become reality. This is a brief introduction to what it does and why you should care.
What Is a YMAP File? GTA Map Modding Glossary
YMAP files are one of the first file types every GTA mapper learns about. Here's a short glossary entry on what they do and why they matter.
YMT Files Explained
YMT files contain metadata the GTA engine uses to interpret models and animations. A short glossary entry.
YDR Files Explained
YDR is GTA V's drawable model format - the file that contains the actual 3D model. A short glossary entry.
FiveM MLOs Explained
FiveM MLOs operate differently from regular single-player MLOs. A simple explanation of the differences.
What Modding Tools Are Likely for GTA 6
What modders can and can't expect from the GTA 6 toolchain. Clearly framed speculation.
Will There Be a FiveM for GTA 6?
FiveM was essentially the alternative multiplayer that made the GTA 5 RP scene exist. Whether something similar can come about for GTA 6 depends on Rockstar's choices.
RAGE MP and GTA 6
RAGE MP was GTA 5's second-largest alternative multiplayer. Where it fits into GTA 6's future is what this piece outlines.
What to Expect from GTA 6 RP Servers
RP will be in GTA 6. When, in what format, and at what quality level - all very guarded statements here.
RP Mapping Overview: How RP Servers Use Custom Maps
RP servers deliver custom locations out of the box. Here's how the RP mapping process works as a sub-discipline.
Custom Locations Common to RP Servers
RP servers differ, but a handful of custom locations show up on nearly every server. Here's the default pack.
Why GTA IV Modding Faded
Why GTA IV's modding scene didn't grow like V's: an honest look.
A Timeline of GTA Modding
Timeline from 1997 to the present - tools, takedowns, total conversions.
MLOs in GTA 6: A Likely Future
Assuming the GTA 6 toolchain develops like V's did, MLOs will be one of the first prominent mod types to expand.
Rockstar's Modding Policy and GTA 6
The 2017 OpenIV reversal is our clearest indicator yet. Here's how to interpret it.
Rockstar's Anti-Mod Policy: Reality vs Reputation
Rockstar has an anti-mod image. It's not quite that simple. An honest editorial.
The History of GTA Online Modding Bans
Rockstar has consistently cracked down on using mods online. Here's the timeline.
Modding Singleplayer vs Online: The Ban Question
Why single-player modding is generally safe, while modding online usually isn't.
GTA Singleplayer vs Online Modding
Single-player and multiplayer modding: different scenes, different objectives, different rules. Here's how they differ.
GTA Map Mod File Formats Explained
A reference page for YMAP, YMT, YDR, YDD, YBN, YTYP and more. Think of it as a glossary.
GTA Safe Mod Installation Practice
A practical guide to installing GTA mods safely. It's educational - nothing is hosted for download here.
GTA Safe Modding Checklist
An installation safety checklist for anyone planning to install GTA mods.
Backing Up Your GTA Game Files
A step-by-step walkthrough of how to back up your GTA installation before modding.
Why Some GTA Mods Are Malware
Certain mods spread malware. Here's how the scam operates and how to steer clear.
GTA Mod Malware: Warning Signs
Specific red flags to watch for before downloading any GTA mod.
The Tools GTA Mappers Actually Use
A tool list for anyone learning the basics of GTA map modding.
3ds Max for GTA Map Modding
Tool overview – what 3ds Max is doing in the GTA modding workflow.
Blender for GTA Map Modding
The free authoring solution for GTA mapping. Increasingly capable.
GTA MLO Creation Process: The Workflow
An overview of the MLO creation process (not a click-by-click tutorial).
GTA 6 Modding Anticipation Cycle
Editorial about managing the hype around GTA 6 modding.
GTA 6 PC Release Anxiety: Worth It?
An emotional-ground article that's also genuinely useful.
GTA 6: RP vs Singleplayer Debate
Editorial about what kind of experience GTA 6 should be optimised for.
Rockstar's Stance on Roleplay
Comparing and contrasting Rockstar's involvement with the RP scene now vs. years ago.