Wanted Level in GTA III Era and Modifications: Difference between pages

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[[File:HUD-GTAIII-PS2.png|thumb|right|333px|The wanted level of the player is indicated by the row of highlighted stars on the player's [[Heads-Up Display]].]]
{{also|''This article is about modifying game files. For the garages that modify vehicles in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas]], see [[Mod Garages]].''}}
[[File:Policeofficers-GTAVC.jpg|thumb|right|333px|Hostile police officers in GTA Vice City, upon reaching a three-star wanted level.]]


The '''Wanted Level in GTA III Era''' is a measure of how much the player is wanted by the law enforcement of their respective area, and therefore how much force will be used in pursuit of the player.  As the player's wanted level increases, more powerful forms of law enforcement will pursue him. In [[GTA III Era]] games, wanted level is measured on a six-star scale, ranking police lethality from the non-lethal one star to the extremely aggressive, and sometimes lethal, six stars.  
[[File:IVMaverick-GTASA-modification.jpg|thumb|A Maverick from GTA IV, in GTA San Andreas.]]
[[File:SCPDMcLarenP1-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|A popular car to mod, particularly in GTA V, is the police cars.]]
[[File:BugattiVeyron164SuperSport-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|Car modifications that put real-life cars into the game (for example, [[wp:Bugatti_Veyron#Bugatti_Veyron_16.4_Super_Sport.2C_World_Record_Edition_.282010.E2.80.932011.29|Bugatti Veyron Super Sport]]) are among the most common and popular modifications throughout the entire GTA series.]]
A '''modification''' (known as a '''mod''' for short) is an alteration to a game. [[Grand Theft Auto]] modifications are created by fans after the game's release, and are normally not authorized or endorsed by [[Rockstar Games]]. Modifications can be obtained from many Grand Theft Auto websites and fansites.


Committing several minor crimes in quick succession - such as beating pedestrians up, destroying cars, etc - will earn him one star. Continuing to commit crimes or resisting arrest will often lead to a second star, and will increase. Committing serious crimes (for example, throwing a grenade into a large crowd of bystanders) often earns the player multiple wanted stars outright.
Almost all modifications are entirely free, and may be downloaded and used by anybody. However, there are restrictions on editing and distributing the modification, so always ask permission from the author.


If the player has one or more wanted stars, nearby [[police]] will give chase and attempt to arrest the player. If the police have successfully arrested the player, the message "[[Busted]]!" will appear on the player's screen. An arrest is executed by either knocking or throwing (in the case of vehicular arrests) the player onto the ground and holding him at gunpoint, or by opening the player's car door and holding him at gunpoint. In both cases, the player has no choice but to give up. If arrested, the player is transported to the nearest police station and is released some time later. After the player is released, he will lose $100 and all of his weapons and armor will be confiscated (except in GTA San Andreas after [[Girlfriends in GTA San Andreas|dating]] [[Barbara Schternvart]] in which case your weapons will not be confiscated. In GTA Vice City Stories, you can buy back the weapons for $2000. In the [[iOS]] and [[Android]] versions of [[Grand Theft Auto III|GTA III]], getting busted does not remove your weapons, only $1000 and armor)
Modifications are mainly only used on [[Personal Computer|PC]] and, recently, mobile ([[iOS]] and [[Android]]) versions of [[Grand Theft Auto]] games, although the latter two require jailbreaking (iOS) or root access (Android). There are methods of modifying console versions, but these are complex and usually break the license agreement of the game and the game console.


The player's wanted level can be decreased various ways. A one-star wanted level will disappear on its own if the player "lies low" for a while (stays out of sight and doesn't commit a crime). Higher wanted levels can be lost through picking up [[Police Bribes]] (each one reduces the player's wanted level by one star), running a vehicle through a [[Pay 'n' Spray]] or going to airport and buying a plane ticket to another city in San Andreas. You can also see [[#Lowering Your Stars|Lowering Your Stars]] for more ways.
Modifications are applicable for:
* [[Grand Theft Auto 1]] (PC)
* [[Grand Theft Auto: London 1969]] (PC)
* [[Grand Theft Auto: London 1961]] (PC)
* [[Grand Theft Auto 2]] (PC)
* [[Grand Theft Auto III]] (PC, iOS, Android)
* [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]] (PC, iOS, Android)
* [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas]] (PC, iOS, Android)
* [[Grand Theft Auto IV]] and expansions (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
* [[Grand Theft Auto V]] (PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One)


It is notoriously difficult to survive higher wanted levels without the use of [[Cheats|cheats]] or modifications. In all [[GTA III Era]] games, there are cheats to raise and lower wanted levels. In [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]] and [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories|GTA Vice City Stories]], there is a cheat to prevent the player from even obtaining a wanted level at all. However, the player can still get attacked by the police at the police impound stations.
== Different Types of Modifications ==
Modifications in special websites usually are distributed on several categories, depending on the aspect of the game that they change:


A wanted level is cumulative — repeatedly committing "one-star" crimes within sight of police may lead to a two-star rating, and so on. It is possible to reach a six-star wanted level by simply shooting and killing a lot of pedestrians, but some crimes are more serious than others, and some can earn more stars outright.
; Maps
[[File:ProjectAlderneyMansion-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|An example of a map mod in GTA V, which spawns objects that transforms a house in Mad Wayne Thunder Drive to a party-like house.]]
Adds buildings, islands, towns, and other objects to an existent landscape of the GTA game. They consist of the added model description with corresponding textures and collision data. Examples include:
* Pleasure Island (GTA VC)
* Liberty City (GTA VC)
* WTC (GTA SA)


As the player's Wanted Level increases, law enforcement spends less energy trying to arrest the player and more trying to kill the player at all costs. As such, it is almost impossible to get arrested at a Wanted Level of three stars or higher, although police will still attempt vehicular arrests if the opportunity arises.  
; Missions
Alters or replaces the mission script (''main.scm'' in all of the [[GTA III Era]] games) of the GTA game. These could alter details of missions or even add entirely new missions. The mission script file is responsible for what-happens-when, so modifying it can achieve almost any effect.


; Patches / Fixes
Modifications of this type do not change anything appreciable but only correct errors present in the original GTA game, including but not limited to:
* The [[DFT-30]]'s missing rear wheel in GTA San Andreas.
* The [[Little Havana Streetwear & Tattoo Parlour|wrongly placed]] [[Havana]] outfit in GTA Vice City.
Some patches or fixes attempt to restore hidden/removed features in the game, such as the [[Ghost Town]] in GTA III and [[Hot Coffee|scenes for adults]] in GTA San Andreas.


== One Star ==
; Player / Pedestrians
[[File:HUD-GTAVC.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A one-star wanted level in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]].]]
[[File:Bodyguardsmod-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|An example of a player mod. The player (green striped shirt in the center) is changed with an NPC skin and were also surrounded with his bodyguards.]]
At a one star wanted level, any [[police|police officer]] that spots the player will give chase and attempt to arrest him. The police will attempt to knock the player down with their fists (in [[Grand Theft Auto III|GTA III]]) and [[nightstick]]s (in other [[GTA III Era]] games). They also do not shoot unless they are threatened by the player (in GTA San Andreas, if you are holding a gun or a thrown weapon, officers will shoot at you, and also if you run over an officer but not getting killed). An exception to this rule is if you are inaccessible to the police officer; for example if you are standing on top of a vehicle, he will pull out his gun and start shooting. [[Police Car|Police cars]] will follow the player, but they can be easily outrun. If the player stays out of sight and does not commit anymore crimes, a one-star wanted level expires on its own. If the player is on foot, police will exit their vehicle and chase you on foot. Only one police officer will give chase on foot at a time even if there are multiple officers in the vicinity.
Basically changes the model of the [[protagonist]] or other NPCs in the game, adds new clothing items, or even adds new sound/animation data. These began after the release of GTA III, which contained an appreciable alternate skin for [[Claude]]. Examples include:
* [[Niko Bellic]] player model (GTA SA)
* ''A Series of Unfortunate Events'' pedestrians models (GTA SA)


A one-star wanted level is attained by committing the following minor crimes. Many of these will not immediately result in a wanted level unless a police officer(even the corpse of a police) is around to witness  them or multiple offences are committed in quick succession:
; Vehicles
[[File:2013AstonMartinVanquish-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|An example of a vehicle mod, an [[wp:Aston_Martin_Vanquish#Second_generation_.282012.E2.80.93.29|Aston Martin Vanquish]] which replaces the [[Massacro]].]]
Changes vehicles in the game. It can range from simply replacing vehicle [[carcols.dat|colors]] or tweaking the performance stats to adding new vehicles, replacing them with a ''hi-poly'' modeled and textured version, or even replacing them with a brand new vehicle altogether. This is the most common type of mod in the GTA series.


:* Attacking and/or killing pedestrians
As a side note, the majority of vehicle mods are real-life vehicles, usually ripped from other games with vehicles (e.g. racing games, although other Grand Theft Auto games are also applicable).
:* Damaging and/or destroying a vehicle
:* Attacking or shooting a police vehicle (always results in a wanted level even when out of sight and whether or not the player used that police vehicle, doesn't trigger with the Police Maverick or FBI/Army vehicles)
:* Crashing into a police vehicle (crashing into an empty/parked police car will not result in a wanted level)
:* Firing a weapon in public
:* Revving a chainsaw in public (Except [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]] and [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories]])
:* Using a [[Molotov Cocktail]] or [[Grenades|Grenade]] in public (except in [[Grand Theft Auto III|GTA III]])
:* Carjacking or stealing parked vehicles within a certain proximity from a police officer (no wanted level is given if the vehicle is locked, including police cars)
:* Attempting to steal a police vehicle (except [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]])
:* Driving a vehicle with the alarm going off
:* Selling multiple ice cream cones during ''[[Distribution]]'' ([[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City|GTA Vice City]])
:* Robbing stores for the minimum amount of cash ([[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City|GTA Vice City]])
:* Killing several people in a short time (usually more than 3 except if with a weapon)
:* Aiming a gun at a police officer in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]] (in all other games, two stars are attained instead)
:* Triggering [[Nitrous]] near a police officer ([[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]])


== Two Stars ==
In the case of Grand Theft Auto V, only texture mods for the in-game vehicles are currently available, while there are modifications that can make the cars behave mostly like, if not exactly like their real-life counterparts in terms of performance.
[[File:HUD-GTAVC-Twostar.png|thumb|right|333px|A two star wanted level in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]].]]
At a two-star wanted level, the police start actively searching for the player. Officers now shoot to kill, including when you're unarmed, and each patrol car is occupied by two officers. Officers in cars now give chase rather than simply follow behind and often try to overtake or spin the player out. On water, [[Predator|armed police boats]] give chase.


Two wanted stars are attained by:
; Weapons
Alters weapon models and data, like accuracy or rate of fire, and shot sound.


:* Aiming a gun at a police officer (in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]] you will get one star)
; Total Conversions (TC)
:* Injuring 2 or more police officers
[[File:Gtaunited-gtasa-modification.jpg|thumb|An example of a total conversion mod in GTA San Andreas, the GTA United, which replaces the state of San Andreas with [[Vice City]] and [[Liberty City]] maps.]]
:* Destroying many cars at once
Total Conversions encompass many of these features at once. TCs generally change everything in that GTA game, including the map, vehicles, pedestrians, player, and missions. A few TC mods been made and completed (e.g. GTA Long Night, a zombified Vice City total conversion mod for GTA Vice City), and there have been many more planned that have never reached a release.
:* Killing many people in a short period of time
:* Displaying a firearm inside a police station in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|San Andreas]] (a melee weapon will not warrant a wanted level)
:* Destroying any aircraft in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|San Andreas]]
:* Trespassing in the Washington Beach Police Station ([[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City|GTA Vice City]]) (unless wearing the cop uniform)
:* Running over a police officer with any vehicle (in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]], one star is triggered instead, considering the player had no wanted level prior to running the police officer over) - Sometimes, running over a police officer may trigger a one-star wanted level, after which any further crimes (except for weapons discharge) will trigger two stars.
:* Attacking a police officer by [[knife]], [[machete]], [[katana]], [[chainsaw]], [[flamethrower]], explosives


== Three Stars ==
; Gameplay
[[File:HUD-GTAVC-Threestar.png|thumb|right|300px|A three-star wanted level in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]].]]
Sometimes known as script mods, gameplay mods change the way players play the game. These mod usually have their own custom script but don't interfere with the main.scm script file. Script mods are also sometimes known as "for fun" mods because they are often used to spawn so-called "myths" in certain places, giving players special weapons, the ability to control the weather, etc. Script mods usually start the player off with maxed-out muscle, a wad of cash, all cities/bridges unlocked and sometimes with an entire arsenal of weapons to use. Sometimes these mods are just simple, such as modifying the game's clock to last up to 24 hours.
At a three-star wanted level, pursuing police vehicles become more aggressive, driving at maximum speed, and the police will also begin to set up armed roadblocks on main roads. A [[Police Maverick|police helicopter]] is also called in to assist and its crew follows the player, putting a spotlight on the protagonist (at night), and shoots at the player via an invisible machine gun on the fuselage if they get a clear shot and yell various humourous remarks over a loudspeaker. Additionally, in GTA Vice City, the police helicopter may occasionally deploy a [[SWAT]] unit onto the ground to attack the player. Police officers begin to deploy spike strips to puncture the player's tires, making driving difficult. In GTA San Andreas, from this wanted level on, officers who come out of either a [[Police Car]] or [[Ranger]] will also ocassionally wield [[Pump Action Shotgun|shotguns]]. Additionally, in [[Grand Theft Auto Vice City|GTA Vice City]] and [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories|GTA Vice City Stories]], undercover 'Vice Squad' detectives armed with Uzis and driving [[VCPD Cheetah|Cheetahs]] also give chase.


Three wanted stars are attained by:
; Physics
Another popular type of mod is fixing the physics. Originally, the physics engine was unrealistic. However, because of CLEO mods, some gamers have been able to change the physics engine by importing the RAGE engine (Rockstar Advanced Game Engine) into GTA San Andreas and GTA Vice City. A popular mod is the "GTA San Andreas Rag-doll" mod. In GTA III, this is much harder to do since limbs come off in the PC version.


:* Continuing to retaliate against law enforcement (evading capture or death by any means)
; Cosmetics
:* Continuing to cause collateral damage (killing civilians and destroying vehicles)
Another popular type of mod is cosmetic replacement. For example, there are mods that replace fictional brands into real ones (e.g. [[Burger Shot]] changing into [[wp:Burger King|Burger King]]) or replace vehicles with their real-life counterparts (e.g. the [[Super GT]] from GTA IV changing into an [[wp:Aston Martin DB9|Aston Martin DB9]]). Sometimes, these even replace district names to match their real ones. An example is the GTA San Andreas real mod.
:* Entering police impound garages in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]]
:* Blowing up an AI controlled full-winged [[Dodo]] (the ''[[DeadDodo]]'') in [[Grand Theft Auto III|GTA III]] and [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City|GTA Vice City]]
:* [[Trucking]] hot goods in San Andreas
:* Breaking out [[Cam Jones]] in the mission [[No Escape?]] in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]]. ([[iOS]] and [[Android]] versions only)


== Four Stars ==
== Non-Modifications ==
[[File:HUD-GTAVC-Fourstar.png|thumb|right|300px|A four-star wanted level in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]].]]
Some third-party programs wrongly count as modifications. The basic criterion for modification is changing the original game 'content' files, and these programs actually do not touch the game files.
At a four-star wanted level, the police will drive more aggressively and [[SWAT]] teams join the chase. SWAT members wear body armor and are armed with Uzi sub-machine guns (in GTA III, they also drop pistols when killed). Roadblocks now consist of the heavier and larger [[Enforcer|SWAT vans]], making them more difficult to ram through. The pursuing police helicopter fires at the player more frequently and, from [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City|GTA Vice City]] onwards, [[:wp:Rappelling|rappels]] SWAT members down to the player's location. In [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]], the police helicopter is often joined by a [[News Chopper]], and [[Hydra|military jets]] now pursue and attempt to shoot down the player if he is flying an aircraft.


Four wanted stars are attained by:
[[File:MenyooTrainerSP-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|An example of a trainer, the Menyoo Trainer in GTA V.]]
; Trainers
Trainers are programs that run alongside the game and manipulate the game's data stored in memory. These programs can change many different things, ranging from the player's health, armor, weapons, skill, and even location; to being able to spawn vehicles, modify the current vehicle (e.g. color, damage etc), and edit vehicles stored in garages; to modifying the time, game speed, and weather.


:* Continuing to retaliate against law enforcement
; [[Multiplayer]]
:* Continuing to cause collateral damage
As all [[PC]] versions of the [[GTA III Era]] games lack multiplayer capabilities, gamer communities started creating unofficial multiplayer clients & servers. These programs allow to play online with other players on public servers, or offer 'head-to-head' competitions between directly connected players. Types of gameplay provided may differ between different servers, but usually are versions of FPS-like deathmatch/CTF or rally/street races. Examples include:
:* Entering a city or region not yet unlocked in the storyline in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]]
* [[Multi Theft Auto]] (MTA)
:* Blowing up the police helicopter which appears at a three star wanted level (not to be confused with the player-operable [[Police Maverick]])
* [[Vice City Multiplayer]] (VCMP)
:* Entering the [[Restricted Areas|restricted area]] of [[El Banco Corrupto Grande]] in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City|GTA Vice City]]
* [[San Andreas Multiplayer]] (SAMP)
:* Breaking out [[Cam Jones]] in the mission [[No Escape?]] in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]]. (all versions except [[iOS]] and [[Android]])


== Five Stars ==
; Enhancers
[[File:HUD-GTAVC-Fivestar.png|thumb|right|300px|A five-star wanted level in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]].]]
[[File:Timecyc-gtasa-modification.jpg|thumb|Screenshot taken with ENB Series mod installed.]]
At a five-star wanted level, the [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] takes over the chase and completely replaces local police on the ground (local police will still chase the player if they see him) and the streets begin to clear of civilians (In GTA Liberty City Stories, however, there are still lots of pedestrians in the streets). Four-FBI teams of heavily armed and armored FBI agents drive armored cars and SUVs and make for formidable opponents. The FBI agents are armed with [[AK-47|AK-47s]] and 9mm handguns in [[Grand Theft Auto III|GTA III]] and [[MP5|MP5s]] in later games. Their driving is even more aggressive and they usually opt to ram the player's vehicle head on at high speed and then batter it to pieces before he/she can recover. In [[Grand Theft Auto III|GTA III]], the pursuing police helicopter is joined by a second, and both stick to the player doggedly and fire at the protagonist whenever they get the chance. The roadblocks now consist of FBI vehicles, which are easier to ram through, but the FBI agents' MP5s tear through most [[vehicles]] fairly quickly. The waters are saturated with [[Predator|Predators]] at this wanted-level. Trespassing inside a military base will release a five star wanted level and cops swarm in and attempt to kill the player. The FBI are particularly perilous to engage, as their SMGs are likely to make short work of the player's getaway vehicle. Due the increased risk of being shot to death, use of a motorcycle as a getaway vehicle is especially not recommended. All officers employ more advanced driving techniques, such as the PIT maneuver, as they try to make the player spin out of control and crash.
Additional programs/libraries which remove or increase certain GTA game engine limits and restrictions, like maximum draw distance and number of objects in scene. Display of these restrictions are well known drops of road texture, delays of LOD textures on buildings when moving fast, and traffic unification with current protagonist car driven. Some enhancers also apply modern shader post-processing effects to game graphics. Notable enhancers include:
* [http://www.gtaforums.com/index.php?showtopic=295783 SA Limit Adjuster]
* [http://boris–vorontsov.narod.ru/index_en.html ENBSeries tweakers]


== Creating Modifications ==
[[File:Leaning-GTASA-modification.jpg|thumb|An example of GTA San Andreas CLEO mod, which makes the player able to perform specific actions (e.g. leaning).]]
Some things, like car colors and handling, weapons characteristics, and ped relations, can be changed easily because all the data necessary stay in plain-text files, with basic guidelines for their usage from game developers in file headers. However, creating more advanced modifications (such as entire buildings or cars) is more difficult, and usually requires some advance experience in creating models for games. Google [[:wp:SketchUp|SketchUp]] is a good program for creating building models. [[3ds Max]], [[:wp:Lightwave|Lightwave]], and [[ZModeler]] are also used. Textures are less complex, but still tricky. Textures normally should be the same size as their originals, because bigger ones may cause the game to lag depending on FPS, as those appear in higher resolution. Also, some textures may contain an alpha texture.


Five stars are attained by:
The mission modifications are even harder to produce. First, mission script for a game must be presented in compiled form, which require use of special compiler/decompiler tools for any changes. Second, script language is not officially documented, and worse, each script editor has their own interpretation of it. Finally, many script features depend on hardcoded functions in the game executable, which can lead to unexpected troubles with different usage approaches, game region versions, official patches, and even depends on end-user hardware. These results with mission modifications are usually simple gameplay missions. The most often used mission script editor is ''Mission Builder'' by Barton Waterduck and its derivative, [http://sannybuilder.com/ Sanny Builder]. Recently, however, a tool called Design Your Own Mission (DYOM), specifically for San Andreas, makes making missions less complex, but these are usually simple.


:* Continuing to retaliate against law enforcement
For Total Conversions, there are even more specific tools needed, like ped & traffic paths editor, [[GXT]] (texts) editor, interface (menu) editor, and so on. It is strongly advised that you do not attempt to do more than you are capable of. Do not expect to be able to recreate your favorite vehicle in a few hours. Many modifications take months.
:* Continuing to cause collateral damage
:* Entering or flying over a restricted area,such as over the [[Easter Basin Naval Station]] in [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas]]
:* Entering or flying over (at low-altitude) the [[Area 69]] research base in GTA San Andreas. Doing this will results not only in the wanted level, but also attack from SAM Sites and enemy [[Hydra|Hydras]].
:* Blowing up the Tarbrush Cafe in the mission [[Cop Land]] in [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City]].


== Six Stars ==
; Vice City Mod Manager
[[File:HUD-GTAIII-Sixstar.png|thumb|right|300px|A six-star wanted level in [[Grand Theft Auto III]].]]
'''Vice City Mod Manager''' (VCMM) is a tool for modifying objects in GTA Vice City. VCMM uses its own file format ''VCM'', and mods can be downloaded in this format from many different websites.
At six stars, the National Guard will take over from the FBI and will give chase in [[Barracks OL]] trucks and [[Rhino]] tanks, making travel in ordinary vehicles extremely hazardous. Civilians have almost completely disappeared from the streets at this point (In GTA Liberty City Stories, however, there are still lots of pedestrians in the streets), and the soldiers drive with total disregard for anything but ramming the player into oblivion. Roadblocks now consist of Barracks OL trucks. At six stars, police helicopters rule the skies, the sea is thick with police boats and in addition to the army, police officers are everywhere - appearing from all directions in large numbers. If the player cannot get to a [[Pay 'n' Spray]] with a suitable vehicle, stealing a [[Rhino|tank]] or taking to the skies in a helicopter and trying to pick up police bribes around the city are often the only practical options for reducing a six-star wanted level. The Army soldiers carry [[M16|M16s]], [[MP5|MP5s]] or [[M16|M4s]] depending on the game. Unlike in the story mode where enemies often miss, the soldiers are pinpoint crackshots, and a gunfight is considered suicide as the army will take the player down very fast. Survival and escape is most difficult, and a very fast and/or durable vehicle is recommended. All law enforcement vehicles fire upon and ram the player relentlessly with very little regard for collateral damage. On foot, the player must move and/or retaliate quickly to avoid being cut down by gunfire; however, fleeing is the better option when pitted against several officers.  


Six stars are attained by:
; San Andreas Mod Manager
'''San Andreas Mod Manager''' (SAMM) is a mod manager for GTA San Andreas. It does the same thing as Vice City Mod Manager.


:* Continuing to retaliate against law enforcement
== Installing Modifications ==
:* Continuing to cause collateral damage
[[File:OpenIVmod-GTAV-modification.png|thumb|A GTA V mod being previewed with OpenIV.]]
:* Entering the [[Securicar]] in the [[Decoy]] mission in [[Grand Theft Auto III]].
Vehicle, player, and weapon mods are usually constructed on replacement of already present game objects, because there are limits to number of objects of such kind in game engine, often already filled up by developers, and addition of the new model will require a lot of 'precision' editing in many game files. Therefore, a new vehicle, weapon, or character model will replace the existing one and all installation is reduced to work with [[IMG]] archives and little editing of one or two game files in text editor. Always do backup of files touched before any change occurs.


== Tips ==
Installation of larger modifications, such as maps, depends on a method chosen by the developer of mod. Some mods are made as file replacements, where the mod comes in the form of an archive which you must unpack to the original game's directory. This simplified installation costs large files to download. Other mods come with special installers ("mod installers"), which automate work with IMG archives and text-files editing. Both methods are usually incompatible with other mods present, so you must install them over special fresh installation of the original game.
=== Reducing a wanted level ===
* Go to any nearest [[safehouse]], [[asset]] or save point and save the game. Then, load it again. (GTA Vice City onwards)
* Collect [[Police Bribe|police bribes]] around the city.
* At a one star wanted level, go to an alleyway or remote place that people don't usually hang out and wait; within a couple of minutes the star will go away on its own. (However, this becomes more difficult in the later stages of GTA: San Andreas when there is a greater police presence in Los Santos; sometimes the only way to get rid of a one-star wanted level in this part of the game while in that city is to use a safehouse, drive a vehicle into a Pay 'n' Spray, or head for the country.)
* Enter a safehouse and change outfits. (GTA Vice City onwards) Note, however, that this does not always work in San Andreas on a 2-star wanted level or higher.
* Go to a clothing shop and change clothes. (GTA San Andreas)
* [[Pay n Spray|Respray]] a [[vehicles|vehicle]] in any [[Pay 'n' Spray]] garage. (certain vehicles, however, like Military, police, SWAT, FBI and emergency vehicles cannot be resprayed). Also, committing crimes while the stars are flashing will reinstate the full wanted level.
* In [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]], [[Mod Garages|mod]] a vehicle at [[TransFender]], [[Loco Low Co.]] and [[Wheel Arch Angels]]; one modification (such as one respray) will suspend the wanted level. Any other modifications done while the stars are flashing will make them disappear.
* In [[Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas|GTA San Andreas]], start the [[Freight Train Challenge|freight train challenge]] and the wanted level will instantly clear.
* In GTA San Andreas, if the player enters a region that has not yet been unlocked, receiving the 4-star level, and then re-enters the unlocked region, the wanted level drops to 3 stars and can be reduced further using bribes, saving, etc. However the wanted rating cannot be reduced while the player remains in the locked region: picking up a bribe will briefly drop the rating to 3 stars, and taking a vehicle to a pay n' spray will reduce the level, but then the game re-registers the player's trespass and reinstates the 4-star rating; safehouses are not available until a region is officially unlocked.
* In most cases, completing a mission will instantly cancel any wanted level attained. There are some missions however, that are programmed not to do this.


=== Getaway vehicles ===
== Considerations ==
* On a 2 to 4 star wanted level, a sports (also a muscle or a tuner) car is a better vehicle to be used as its speed easily outruns most police vehicles.
* Some gamers consider modifications to spoil the integrity and theme of the game — for example, they don't think a Lamborghini Gallardo, BMW M5 F10 or even a 2015 Ford Mustang GT belongs in GTA San Andreas which took place in 1992, although you can make your own decisions on these matters.
* On a 5 star wanted level, where FBI vehicles tend to knock the player off road, heavy vehicles like the [[Coach]] and [[Flatbed]] are recommended since their size makes them difficult to be pushed around.
* Most modifications do not alter the status of your game. However, if you install a modification that edits or replaces the mission script file, you will have to begin a new game (except in rare cases), or use a provided savegame created for that specific modification. The game will crash immediately if you try to load an old savegame file.
* On a 6 star wanted level, a [[Rhino]], if the player manages to attain one, is the best means of escape since any vehicles that runs into it will simply explode (except motorbikes in GTA San Andreas, but the player can be knocked off of one easily). Even Rhinos themselves are not all that durable against other Rhinos, as this vehicle can only be damaged by hitting another Rhino, or fire (making Molotov Cocktails an unlikely, but practical choice of weapon if one has good cover).
* Modifications that were badly coded (mainly missions) or contain many hi-quality textures and models may result with game performance degradation, jerky framerate, and various graphical glitches, especially on old hardware.
* A slow vehicle is NOT recommended for escape from any wanted level higher than 2 stars.
* Also, most modifications are made for PC, while the rest are made for iOS/Android. Attempting to install the mods cross-platform (iOS/Android on PC, and vice versa) may result in either graphical oddities or even game crashes.
* If the player is skilled at driving a motorcycle, using a [[PCJ-600]] or, in GTA San Andreas, the [[NRG-500]], can often be the best choice as the fast bikes allow overland travel and jumping and speed that can facilitate escapes to save points or other safety areas.
* Usually, when installing new vehicle/weapon mods, the game will still display the original vehicles' or weapons' names. To correct this, modify the GXT file of the language you are using.
* It is best to avoid using the [[Angel]] or the [[Freeway]] to escape a four star wanted level or higher, as they have wide turning radii and they don't brake well, meaning that the player will have to use their brakes frequently, allowing law enforcement officers to catch up to them.  
* Except for the iOS/Android version of GTA III, the iOS/Android versions of GTA III Era games no longer use [[TXD]] files, instead putting all textures in a [[gta3.txt]] file, along with pvr (gta3.pvr.dat, gta3.pvr.tmb, gta3.pvr.toc) and gta3.unc.tmb files.
* It is also best to avoid using the [[Pizza Boy]], [[NoodleBoy]] or the [[Faggio]] to escape a four star or higher wanted level. Although these scooters have excellent handling and braking, they have a low top speed and horrible acceleration, meaning it is near impossible to outrun the law enforcement vehicles. It also makes it easier for law enforcement to bust the player.
* When attempting to avoid the police by driving through alleyways or by off roading, the [[Sanchez]] is a good option to take, as it is an excellent off roader, is small and nimble, and has excellent acceleration and handling, with a moderate top speed.


=== Others ===
== Modding on GTA IV ==
* Before unlocking [[Vice City Mainland]] in GTA Vice City or [[Staunton Island]] in GTA III, the player can only attain 4 star wanted level at maximum.
As with the previous GTA games, modding continues to be prominent on [[Grand Theft Auto IV]].
* At high wanted levels, prioritize escaping from or killing [[Military|soldiers]] (six stars), [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] agents (five stars) , [[SWAT]] soldiers (four star onwards) and  [[Vice Squad]] Agents (three star wanted level, GTA VC and GTA VCS only) over killing regular police officers, as they can kill a player with with their weapons in a short amount of time.
* At higher levels, the best way to clear the wanted level is to shoot down the police helicopters, and sneak into a Pay 'n' Spray before they respawn. Another good strategy is to enter the subway system (GTA III and GTA LCS only) with a vehicle (preferably a motorbike) and follow the underground routes until they reach a Pay 'n' Spray (or lose the wanted level, if the player has a one star), but the player must be careful not to get lost in the system or getting hit by the oncoming Subway Trains.
* Stunt jumping gives the player considerable distance from the police but may not guarantee total escape, as certain factors, such as the wanted level, environment of the stunt jump, "projectile" motion concept of physics, and the position of other police units, come into play.
* Run through alleys and narrow streets to give the cops the slip.
* To save money, only use the Pay 'n' Spray if you have a wanted level of at least 4 stars, as it is easy to escape 1 and 2 star wanted levels (and occasionally 3 stars, depending on the location of the Police Maverick).  


== Trivia ==
While most players mod the PC version of Grand Theft Auto IV, many players also mod the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of GTA IV. One of the most predominantly used mods on the console versions of GTA IV will give the player the ability to shoot rockets out of guns other than rocket launchers. Many modders will also use a "speedup" mod that allows them to drive vehicles at incredibly fast speeds, sometimes fast enough to make the vehicle start flying. Modders also spawn cars that are not available in multiplayer with an array of unofficial paintjobs. Modders will also spawn story mode characters as bodyguards. Many people feel angry and annoyed to see a modder in a Free Mode game, usually because they are killing the other players with their modified weapons. Often times a modder will be kicked out of the game or trash-talked to. Despite modding being relatively annoying to some, others find modding fun and use it as a way to obtain various abilities or vehicles for their own personal enjoyment or for the players in the current multiplayer game.
* In [[Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories]], it is possible for the player to get arrested without having any wanted stars. If the player punches the air in front of a police officer (without actually hitting the police officer), he will think the player hit him. While no wanted level stars appear, the police officer will kick the player to the ground and arrest the player.
** Also, in GTA Liberty City Stories, it is also possible for the player to get arrested without having any wanted stars. In order to do this, the player must enter the "Never Wanted" cheat, then either attempt to steal a police car or provoke a cop into attacking and arresting him.
* Sometimes, if the player types in the "remove wanted level" cheat, even though the player no longer has a wanted level, sometimes the police will continue to attack the player as if he had one.
* If the player enters a building, exiting it will cause all cops chasing you to appear in front of a building.
* There are instances in GTA San Andreas that if you do not stop running while your 2-star Wanted Level changes into a 3-star, a police chopper can appear on the ground as if its rotors are the only thing revealed.  
* In GTA San Andreas, if you have a 4-star wanted level or higher and use the "turndowntheheat" cheat and get another wanted level under 3 stars, any SWAT, Army or FBI in the area will not go after you or shoot you unless you attack them.
* In GTA San Andreas, at a 3-star or higher wanted level, officers who come out of a [[Police Car]] or [[Ranger]] will occasionally wield shotguns. Even if an officer does wield a shotgun, entering the car the officer came out of will still add 5 shells to the players' shotgun ammo and will still result in the player obtaining a [[Pump Action Shotgun]] provided he already doesn't have a shotgun.
* In all GTA III Era games, if the "Pedestrians have weapons" cheat is on, and a cop or law enforcement officer opens fire first at the player, some pedestrians that are armed with guns will retaliate against them, just like with anybody else who has fired a weapon.
* Also, in all GTA III Era games (except GTA San Andreas), if the player uses the "Play as Pedestrian" cheat to play as a law enforcement officer, committing even one crime far away from any AI-controlled police officer can already trigger a wanted level.


[[nl:Wanted-level]]
== Modding on GTA V ==
[[Category:Features in GTA III]]
As with the previous GTA games, modding continues to be prominent on [[Grand Theft Auto V]]. However, Rockstar originally banned any sort of modifications, even in Single Player, due to the presence of [[Grand Theft Auto Online]]. Also, in every game title update, all script mods and game configuration mods will be broken and rendered unusable and an update is required to make the game be able to run again, also the update.rpf file will be reset to the vanilla state meaning the player had to make backups before updating the game.
[[Category:Features in GTA Vice City]]
 
[[Category:Features in GTA San Andreas]]
== Disclaimer ==
[[Category:Features in GTA Advance]]
You modify your game at your own risk. There is no guarantee that all modifications you download will work, or whether the instructions will be complete. You should make yourself familiar with simple well-known modifications (such as vehicles) before attempting to install larger and more complex models.
[[Category:Features in GTA Liberty City Stories]]
 
[[Category:Features in GTA Vice City Stories]]
<font color="red">'''Always read the instructions thoroughly, and always backup files before you edit!'''</font>
[[Category:Wanted Level]]
 
== Gallery ==
<center>'''You can post your modifications here!'''
; GTA III
<gallery captionalign="center" widths="120">
File:2016AudiR8-GTAIII-modification.png|[[wp:Audi_R8#Second_generation_.282015.E2.80.93present.29|2016 Audi R8]], replacing the [[Stinger]].
File:2016BentleyContinentalGT-GTAIII-modification.png[[wp:Bentley_Continental_GT#Second_generation_.282011.E2.80.93present.29|2016 Bentley Continental GT]].
File:MitsubishiEclipseMidnightClub-GTAIII-modification.png|[[wp:Mitsubishi Eclipse|2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse]].
File:Nissan350Z-GTAIII-modification.jpg|[[wp:Nissan 350Z|Nissan 350Z]].
File:Protagonist&GhostTown-GTAIII-modification.jpg|Protagonist/Ghost Town mods.
File:Dodo-GTAIII-fullwing-modification.jpg|Fullwing [[Dodo]] and GTA San Andreas [[Heads-Up Display|HUD]] mod.
File:Odie'sStuntPark-GTAIII-modification.png|''Odie's Stunt Park'' and a custom [[wp:Lamborghini Murciélago|Lamborghini Murciélago]] mod on the iOS version of GTA III.
</gallery>
 
; GTA Vice City
<gallery captionalign="center" widths="120">
File:KoenigseggOne1-GTAVC-modification.png|[[wp:Koenigsegg_Agera#Koenigsegg_One:1|Koenigsegg One:1]].
File:Veneno-gtavc-modification.png|A [[wp:Lamborghini Veneno|Lamborghini Veneno]] car mod in GTA Vice City, loaded using ''Maxo's Vehicle Loader''.
File:Mc12-gtavc-modification.jpg|[[wp:Maserati_MC12|Maserati MC12]].
FerrariF40Competizione-GTAVC-modification.png|[[wp:Ferrari_F40#Competizione|Ferrari F40 Competizione]].
File:LamborghiniHuracanLP6104-GTAVC-modification.png|[[wp:Lamborghini Huracan|Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4]].
File:991-gtavc-modification.png|[[wp:Porsche_991#911_Carrera_S|Porsche 911 Carrera S (991)]], replacing the [[Comet]].
File:Photocam-gtavc-modification.png|A photo [[Camera]] mod in [[GTA Vice City]], similar to the feature in [[GTA San Andreas]]. Also, a [[wp:Ferrari F12|Ferrari F12berlinetta]] in the background can be seen.
File:CricketBat-GTAVC-modification.png|Cricket Bat mod.
</gallery>
 
; GTA San Andreas
<gallery captionalign="center" widths="120">
File:DevelSixteen-GTAV-modification.jpg|Devel Sixteen Concept Car.
File:P1pc-gtasa-modification.jpg|A [[wp:McLaren P1|McLaren P1]] mod in GTA San Andreas.
File:Enzo-gtasa-modification.jpg|[[wp:Enzo_Ferrari_(automobile)|Ferrari Enzo]], replacing the [[Turismo]].
File:PaganiZondaF-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Pagani Zonda F|Pagani Zonda F]].
File:Lp7004-gtasa-modification.jpg|[[wp:Lamborghini Aventador|Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4]].
File:McLaren650S-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:McLaren 650S|McLaren 650S]].
File:12c-gtasa-modification.jpg|[[wp:McLaren 12C|McLaren 12C]]
File:13LamborghiniGallardoLP560-4-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Lamborghini Gallardo|2013 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4]], replacing the [[Infernus]].
File:RUFRKCoupe-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Ruf_RK_Coupe|RUF RK Coupe]].
File:EmeraldCasinoRR-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Rolls-Royce_Ghost|Rolls-Royce Ghost]] and [[wp:Mansory|Mansory]] [[wp:Rolls-Royce_Ghost|Rolls-Royce Ghost]], replacing the [[Elegant]] and [[Stafford]] respectively.
File:2010Nissan370Z-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Nissan 370Z|Nissan 370Z]], replacing the [[Euros]].
File:VWGolfDesignVisionGTI-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Volkswagen_Golf_Mk7|Volkswagen Golf Design Vision Concept]], replacing the [[Club]].
File:2016HondaAccord-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Honda Accord|2016 Honda Accord]], replacing the [[Nebula]].
File:2013ToyotaCamryXLE-GTASA-modification.jpg|[[wp:Toyota Camry|2013 Toyota Camry XLE]], replacing the [[Merit]].
File:Graphic-gtasa-modification.jpg|Graphic modifications, by modifying the timecyc.dat file and installing ENB Series.
File:HotCoffeeModification-GTASA.jpg|The infamous [[Hot Coffee Mod]].
File:Bigfoot-GTASA-modification.jpg|A legendary [[BigFoot]] Mod.
File:BMWZ4-GTASA-modification.jpg|A [[wp:BMW Z4|BMW Z4]] mod, with a [[wp:Nissan 350Z|Nissan 350Z]] visible in the background.
File:Tex-gtasa-modification.jpg|[[wp:M%26M%27s|M&M's]] billboard mod.
File:CokeZero-GTASA-vendingmachine-modification.jpg|[[wp:Coke Zero|Coke Zero]] vending machine.
File:Maverick-GTASA-modification-paintjob.jpg|A Maverick, with an [[wp:Airwolf|Airwolf]] decal.
File:SegaGenesis-GTASA-console-modification.jpg|[[wp:Sega Genesis|Sega Genesis]] mod.
File:Tatra603-GTASA-modification.jpg|A [[wp:Tatra 603|Tatra 603]] mod, replacing the [[Glendale]].
File:LanciaDeltaS4-GTASA-modification.jpg|A [[wp:Lancia Delta S4|Lancia Delta S4]] parked on [[Grove Street]].|link=File:LanciaDeltaS4 Mod GTA SA 1.jpg
File:Pedestrianmodels-GTASA-modification.jpg|A [[Niko Bellic]] player model and ''A Series of Unfortunate Events'' character peds.
File:Ammu-Nation-GTASA-freeweapons-modification.jpeg|An "All weapons for free at Ammu-Nation" mod, achieved by modifying the [[shopping.dat]] file.
File:Nitro-GTASA-modification.jpeg|A [[nitro]] mod in GTA San Andreas.
File:Euro-GTASA-modification.jpeg|A Euro currency mod in GTA San Andreas.
File:Car-GTASA-modification.jpeg|A Mercedes-Benz CLS550 car mod in GTA San Andreas.
File:Golf-GTASA-modification.jpeg|Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk.V.
</gallery>
 
; GTA IV
<gallery captionalign="center" widths="120">
File:Trainer-gtaiv-modification.jpg|Simple Native Trainer mod, the most popular mod in GTA IV series.
File:Icenhancer-gtaiv-modification.jpg|ICENhancer graphics mod in [[The Ballad of Gay Tony|Grand Theft Auto IV EFLC: The Ballad of Gay Tony]].
File:KoenigseggCCXREdition-GTAIV-modification.jpg|[[wp:Koenigsegg_CCX#Edition|Koenigsegg CCXR Edition]].
File:BugattiVeyron16.4-GTAIV-modification.jpg|[[wp:Bugatti Veyron|Bugatti Veyron 16.4]].
File:FerrariEnzo-GTAIV-modification.jpg|[[wp:Enzo_Ferrari_(automobile)|Ferrari Enzo]].
File:LamborghiniAventadorLP7004-GTAIV-modification.jpg|[[wp:Lamborghini Aventador|Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4]].
File:SaleenS7TwinTurbo-GTAIV-modification.png|[[wp:Saleen S7|Saleen S7 Twin Turbo]].
File:Ferrari458Italiaspider-GTAIV-modification.jpg|[[wp:Ferrari 458|Ferrari 458 Spider]] along with the IV:SA map mod.
File:FerrariF430-GTAIV-modification.jpg[[wp:Ferrari F430|Ferrari F430]].
File:NissanSkylineGTRR34-GTAIV-modification.jpg|[[wp:Nissan_Skyline_GT-R#Fifth_generation_.281999.E2.80.932002.29|Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)]], replacing the [[Sultan RS]].
File:Terminator-GTAIV-modification.jpeg|A ''Terminator'' modification in GTA IV.
File:Soldier-GTAIV-modification.png|One of the most popular mods for GTA IV is the soldier mod.
File:CarColour-GTAIV-modification.jpg|A modification that changes the colors of vehicles.
</gallery>
 
; GTA V
<gallery captionalign="center" widths="120">
File:Trainer-gtav-modification.png|Enhanced Native Trainer.
File:VisualV-GTAV-modification.png|VisualV graphic mod.
File:SouthernSanAndreasExoticTrafficRealCars-GTAV-modification.png|[https://www.gta5-mods.com/misc/southern-san-andreas-exotic-popgroups-ymt-803cba20-ebff-4a21-82a7-b0d70ab9a39a Southern San Andreas Exotic Traffic] mod.
File:Pedplay-gtav-modification.jpg|Play as [[pedestrians]] mod.
File:PortableRadio-GTAV-modification.png|Portable Radio mod.
File:LamborghiniCentenarioLP7704-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Lamborghini_Aventador#Centenario|Lamborghini Centenario LP770-4]].
File:KoenigseggAgeraR-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Koenigsegg_Agera#Koenigsegg_Agera_R|Koenigsegg Agera R]].
File:McLarenP1-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:McLaren P1|McLaren P1]], replacing the [[T20]].
File:FerrariLaFerrari-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:LaFerrari|Ferrari LaFerrari]], replacing the [[Turismo R]].
File:Porsche918Spyder2015-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Porsche_918|Porsche 918 Spyder]], replacing the [[Pfister]] 811.
File:Lamborghiniaventadorlp700-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Lamborghini_Aventador|Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4]], replacing the [[Zentorno]].
File:McLarenMP4-12C-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:McLaren 12C|McLaren MP4-12C]].
File:FerrariF12tdf-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Ferrari_F12berlinetta#Ferrari_F12tdf_.282016.29|Ferrari F12tdf]].
File:FordGT2017-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Ford_GT#Second_generation_.282017.E2.80.93.29|2017 Ford GT]], replacing the FMJ.
File:DodgeChallengerSRTHellcatV3-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Dodge_Challenger#SRT_Hellcat|Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat]], replacing the [[Redwood Cigarettes|Redwood]] [[Gauntlet]].
File:NissanSkylineGTRR34-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Nissan_Skyline_GT-R#Fifth_generation_.281999.E2.80.932002.29|Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)]].
File:MercedesBenzGLE63AMG-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Mercedes-Benz_M-Class#Facelift_.28GLE-Class.29|Mercedes-Benz GLE63 AMG]], replacing the [[Serrano]].
File:MitsubishiLancerEvolutionIXMRGSR-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Mitsubishi_Lancer_Evolution#Evolution_IX|Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR GSR]], replacing the [[Sultan]].
File:ToyotaAvalon-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Toyota Avalon|2014 Toyota Avalon]], replacing the [[Asterope]].
File:2012HondaAccord-GTAV-modification.png|[[wp:Honda_Accord_(North_America_eighth_generation)|2012 Honda Accord]].
File:3LakeVinewoodEstatesPartyMode-GTAV-modification.png|Map Editor mod, which makes the player able to load new objects in certain places.
File:UberLosSantos-GTAV-modification.png|Hail-a-ride mod, similar to the real-life service company [[wp:Uber_(company)|Uber]].
</gallery></center>
 
== External links ==
* [http://www.gtagarage.com GTAGarage.com] - Large database and warehouse for modifications since GTA III.
* [http://www.gta-downloads.com GTA-Downloads.com] - Another warehouse, keeps also modifications for older GTA games.
* [http://gta-worldmods.t-n-network.de/phpkit/start/ GTA-Worldmods] - German warehouse with many car modifications.
* [http://www.gtaforums.com/index.php?showforum=90 GTAForums.com] - Mod Showroom, to find newest mods and news about existent.
* [http://www.gtamodding.com GTAModding] - Wiki with information for mod developers.
* [http://www.steve-m.com Steve`s GTA page] - Many tools for modding and links to other developers of tools.
* [http://www.gtainside.com GTAInside] - Large database since GTA III
* [http://www.gtagaming.com GTAGaming] - Predominatly for general information about GTA. A page exists for downloading mods though.
* [http://www.gtapolicemods.com  GTA Police Mods] - Large warehouse for emergency vehicles for GTA San Andreas and GTA IV.
 
{{modding}}
 
[[Category:Modifications]]

Revision as of 04:03, 29 September 2016

This article is about modifying game files. For the garages that modify vehicles in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, see Mod Garages.


A Maverick from GTA IV, in GTA San Andreas.
A popular car to mod, particularly in GTA V, is the police cars.
Car modifications that put real-life cars into the game (for example, Bugatti Veyron Super Sport) are among the most common and popular modifications throughout the entire GTA series.

A modification (known as a mod for short) is an alteration to a game. Grand Theft Auto modifications are created by fans after the game's release, and are normally not authorized or endorsed by Rockstar Games. Modifications can be obtained from many Grand Theft Auto websites and fansites.

Almost all modifications are entirely free, and may be downloaded and used by anybody. However, there are restrictions on editing and distributing the modification, so always ask permission from the author.

Modifications are mainly only used on PC and, recently, mobile (iOS and Android) versions of Grand Theft Auto games, although the latter two require jailbreaking (iOS) or root access (Android). There are methods of modifying console versions, but these are complex and usually break the license agreement of the game and the game console.

Modifications are applicable for:

Different Types of Modifications

Modifications in special websites usually are distributed on several categories, depending on the aspect of the game that they change:

Maps
An example of a map mod in GTA V, which spawns objects that transforms a house in Mad Wayne Thunder Drive to a party-like house.

Adds buildings, islands, towns, and other objects to an existent landscape of the GTA game. They consist of the added model description with corresponding textures and collision data. Examples include:

  • Pleasure Island (GTA VC)
  • Liberty City (GTA VC)
  • WTC (GTA SA)
Missions

Alters or replaces the mission script (main.scm in all of the GTA III Era games) of the GTA game. These could alter details of missions or even add entirely new missions. The mission script file is responsible for what-happens-when, so modifying it can achieve almost any effect.

Patches / Fixes

Modifications of this type do not change anything appreciable but only correct errors present in the original GTA game, including but not limited to:

Some patches or fixes attempt to restore hidden/removed features in the game, such as the Ghost Town in GTA III and scenes for adults in GTA San Andreas.

Player / Pedestrians
An example of a player mod. The player (green striped shirt in the center) is changed with an NPC skin and were also surrounded with his bodyguards.

Basically changes the model of the protagonist or other NPCs in the game, adds new clothing items, or even adds new sound/animation data. These began after the release of GTA III, which contained an appreciable alternate skin for Claude. Examples include:

  • Niko Bellic player model (GTA SA)
  • A Series of Unfortunate Events pedestrians models (GTA SA)
Vehicles
An example of a vehicle mod, an Aston Martin Vanquish which replaces the Massacro.

Changes vehicles in the game. It can range from simply replacing vehicle colors or tweaking the performance stats to adding new vehicles, replacing them with a hi-poly modeled and textured version, or even replacing them with a brand new vehicle altogether. This is the most common type of mod in the GTA series.

As a side note, the majority of vehicle mods are real-life vehicles, usually ripped from other games with vehicles (e.g. racing games, although other Grand Theft Auto games are also applicable).

In the case of Grand Theft Auto V, only texture mods for the in-game vehicles are currently available, while there are modifications that can make the cars behave mostly like, if not exactly like their real-life counterparts in terms of performance.

Weapons

Alters weapon models and data, like accuracy or rate of fire, and shot sound.

Total Conversions (TC)
An example of a total conversion mod in GTA San Andreas, the GTA United, which replaces the state of San Andreas with Vice City and Liberty City maps.

Total Conversions encompass many of these features at once. TCs generally change everything in that GTA game, including the map, vehicles, pedestrians, player, and missions. A few TC mods been made and completed (e.g. GTA Long Night, a zombified Vice City total conversion mod for GTA Vice City), and there have been many more planned that have never reached a release.

Gameplay

Sometimes known as script mods, gameplay mods change the way players play the game. These mod usually have their own custom script but don't interfere with the main.scm script file. Script mods are also sometimes known as "for fun" mods because they are often used to spawn so-called "myths" in certain places, giving players special weapons, the ability to control the weather, etc. Script mods usually start the player off with maxed-out muscle, a wad of cash, all cities/bridges unlocked and sometimes with an entire arsenal of weapons to use. Sometimes these mods are just simple, such as modifying the game's clock to last up to 24 hours.

Physics

Another popular type of mod is fixing the physics. Originally, the physics engine was unrealistic. However, because of CLEO mods, some gamers have been able to change the physics engine by importing the RAGE engine (Rockstar Advanced Game Engine) into GTA San Andreas and GTA Vice City. A popular mod is the "GTA San Andreas Rag-doll" mod. In GTA III, this is much harder to do since limbs come off in the PC version.

Cosmetics

Another popular type of mod is cosmetic replacement. For example, there are mods that replace fictional brands into real ones (e.g. Burger Shot changing into Burger King) or replace vehicles with their real-life counterparts (e.g. the Super GT from GTA IV changing into an Aston Martin DB9). Sometimes, these even replace district names to match their real ones. An example is the GTA San Andreas real mod.

Non-Modifications

Some third-party programs wrongly count as modifications. The basic criterion for modification is changing the original game 'content' files, and these programs actually do not touch the game files.

An example of a trainer, the Menyoo Trainer in GTA V.
Trainers

Trainers are programs that run alongside the game and manipulate the game's data stored in memory. These programs can change many different things, ranging from the player's health, armor, weapons, skill, and even location; to being able to spawn vehicles, modify the current vehicle (e.g. color, damage etc), and edit vehicles stored in garages; to modifying the time, game speed, and weather.

Multiplayer

As all PC versions of the GTA III Era games lack multiplayer capabilities, gamer communities started creating unofficial multiplayer clients & servers. These programs allow to play online with other players on public servers, or offer 'head-to-head' competitions between directly connected players. Types of gameplay provided may differ between different servers, but usually are versions of FPS-like deathmatch/CTF or rally/street races. Examples include:

Enhancers
Screenshot taken with ENB Series mod installed.

Additional programs/libraries which remove or increase certain GTA game engine limits and restrictions, like maximum draw distance and number of objects in scene. Display of these restrictions are well known drops of road texture, delays of LOD textures on buildings when moving fast, and traffic unification with current protagonist car driven. Some enhancers also apply modern shader post-processing effects to game graphics. Notable enhancers include:

Creating Modifications

An example of GTA San Andreas CLEO mod, which makes the player able to perform specific actions (e.g. leaning).

Some things, like car colors and handling, weapons characteristics, and ped relations, can be changed easily because all the data necessary stay in plain-text files, with basic guidelines for their usage from game developers in file headers. However, creating more advanced modifications (such as entire buildings or cars) is more difficult, and usually requires some advance experience in creating models for games. Google SketchUp is a good program for creating building models. 3ds Max, Lightwave, and ZModeler are also used. Textures are less complex, but still tricky. Textures normally should be the same size as their originals, because bigger ones may cause the game to lag depending on FPS, as those appear in higher resolution. Also, some textures may contain an alpha texture.

The mission modifications are even harder to produce. First, mission script for a game must be presented in compiled form, which require use of special compiler/decompiler tools for any changes. Second, script language is not officially documented, and worse, each script editor has their own interpretation of it. Finally, many script features depend on hardcoded functions in the game executable, which can lead to unexpected troubles with different usage approaches, game region versions, official patches, and even depends on end-user hardware. These results with mission modifications are usually simple gameplay missions. The most often used mission script editor is Mission Builder by Barton Waterduck and its derivative, Sanny Builder. Recently, however, a tool called Design Your Own Mission (DYOM), specifically for San Andreas, makes making missions less complex, but these are usually simple.

For Total Conversions, there are even more specific tools needed, like ped & traffic paths editor, GXT (texts) editor, interface (menu) editor, and so on. It is strongly advised that you do not attempt to do more than you are capable of. Do not expect to be able to recreate your favorite vehicle in a few hours. Many modifications take months.

Vice City Mod Manager

Vice City Mod Manager (VCMM) is a tool for modifying objects in GTA Vice City. VCMM uses its own file format VCM, and mods can be downloaded in this format from many different websites.

San Andreas Mod Manager

San Andreas Mod Manager (SAMM) is a mod manager for GTA San Andreas. It does the same thing as Vice City Mod Manager.

Installing Modifications

A GTA V mod being previewed with OpenIV.

Vehicle, player, and weapon mods are usually constructed on replacement of already present game objects, because there are limits to number of objects of such kind in game engine, often already filled up by developers, and addition of the new model will require a lot of 'precision' editing in many game files. Therefore, a new vehicle, weapon, or character model will replace the existing one and all installation is reduced to work with IMG archives and little editing of one or two game files in text editor. Always do backup of files touched before any change occurs.

Installation of larger modifications, such as maps, depends on a method chosen by the developer of mod. Some mods are made as file replacements, where the mod comes in the form of an archive which you must unpack to the original game's directory. This simplified installation costs large files to download. Other mods come with special installers ("mod installers"), which automate work with IMG archives and text-files editing. Both methods are usually incompatible with other mods present, so you must install them over special fresh installation of the original game.

Considerations

  • Some gamers consider modifications to spoil the integrity and theme of the game — for example, they don't think a Lamborghini Gallardo, BMW M5 F10 or even a 2015 Ford Mustang GT belongs in GTA San Andreas which took place in 1992, although you can make your own decisions on these matters.
  • Most modifications do not alter the status of your game. However, if you install a modification that edits or replaces the mission script file, you will have to begin a new game (except in rare cases), or use a provided savegame created for that specific modification. The game will crash immediately if you try to load an old savegame file.
  • Modifications that were badly coded (mainly missions) or contain many hi-quality textures and models may result with game performance degradation, jerky framerate, and various graphical glitches, especially on old hardware.
  • Also, most modifications are made for PC, while the rest are made for iOS/Android. Attempting to install the mods cross-platform (iOS/Android on PC, and vice versa) may result in either graphical oddities or even game crashes.
  • Usually, when installing new vehicle/weapon mods, the game will still display the original vehicles' or weapons' names. To correct this, modify the GXT file of the language you are using.
  • Except for the iOS/Android version of GTA III, the iOS/Android versions of GTA III Era games no longer use TXD files, instead putting all textures in a gta3.txt file, along with pvr (gta3.pvr.dat, gta3.pvr.tmb, gta3.pvr.toc) and gta3.unc.tmb files.

Modding on GTA IV

As with the previous GTA games, modding continues to be prominent on Grand Theft Auto IV.

While most players mod the PC version of Grand Theft Auto IV, many players also mod the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of GTA IV. One of the most predominantly used mods on the console versions of GTA IV will give the player the ability to shoot rockets out of guns other than rocket launchers. Many modders will also use a "speedup" mod that allows them to drive vehicles at incredibly fast speeds, sometimes fast enough to make the vehicle start flying. Modders also spawn cars that are not available in multiplayer with an array of unofficial paintjobs. Modders will also spawn story mode characters as bodyguards. Many people feel angry and annoyed to see a modder in a Free Mode game, usually because they are killing the other players with their modified weapons. Often times a modder will be kicked out of the game or trash-talked to. Despite modding being relatively annoying to some, others find modding fun and use it as a way to obtain various abilities or vehicles for their own personal enjoyment or for the players in the current multiplayer game.

Modding on GTA V

As with the previous GTA games, modding continues to be prominent on Grand Theft Auto V. However, Rockstar originally banned any sort of modifications, even in Single Player, due to the presence of Grand Theft Auto Online. Also, in every game title update, all script mods and game configuration mods will be broken and rendered unusable and an update is required to make the game be able to run again, also the update.rpf file will be reset to the vanilla state meaning the player had to make backups before updating the game.

Disclaimer

You modify your game at your own risk. There is no guarantee that all modifications you download will work, or whether the instructions will be complete. You should make yourself familiar with simple well-known modifications (such as vehicles) before attempting to install larger and more complex models.

Always read the instructions thoroughly, and always backup files before you edit!

Gallery

You can post your modifications here!
GTA III
GTA Vice City
GTA San Andreas
GTA IV
GTA V

External links

  • GTAGarage.com - Large database and warehouse for modifications since GTA III.
  • GTA-Downloads.com - Another warehouse, keeps also modifications for older GTA games.
  • GTA-Worldmods - German warehouse with many car modifications.
  • GTAForums.com - Mod Showroom, to find newest mods and news about existent.
  • GTAModding - Wiki with information for mod developers.
  • Steve`s GTA page - Many tools for modding and links to other developers of tools.
  • GTAInside - Large database since GTA III
  • GTAGaming - Predominatly for general information about GTA. A page exists for downloading mods though.
  • GTA Police Mods - Large warehouse for emergency vehicles for GTA San Andreas and GTA IV.