ScriptHookVDotNet - .NET Framework for GTA 5 Mods 2026

ScriptHookVDotNet - Write GTA 5 Mods in C# and VB.NET

ScriptHookVDotNet (SHVDN) is a powerful scripting framework that allows modders to create GTA 5 mods using .NET languages like C# and VB.NET. It serves as a bridge between Script Hook V and the .NET runtime, enabling developers to write sophisticated mods with access to the full .NET library ecosystem. Many of the most popular GTA 5 script mods require SHVDN to function.

What Is ScriptHookVDotNet?

SHVDN is an ASI plugin that runs on top of Script Hook V and provides a .NET scripting interface for GTA 5. It loads .dll mod files written in C# or VB.NET from the scripts folder, giving modders access to GTA 5 native functions through a clean object-oriented API. This makes mod development significantly easier compared to writing native ASI plugins in C++.

Key Features

• C# and VB.NET Support - Write mods in modern .NET languages with full IDE support
• Rich API - Object-oriented wrappers for GTA 5 natives including vehicles, peds, weapons, and UI
• Easy Installation - Simply drop .dll mod files into the scripts folder
• Hot Reload - Reload scripts without restarting the game using the console
• NuGet Package - Available as a NuGet package for easy project setup in Visual Studio
• Active Development - Regularly updated to support new GTA 5 versions

How to Install ScriptHookVDotNet

1. Install Script Hook V - SHVDN requires Script Hook V as a prerequisite
2. Download SHVDN - Get the latest version matching your Script Hook V
3. Extract Files - Copy ScriptHookVDotNet.asi, ScriptHookVDotNet2.dll, and ScriptHookVDotNet3.dll to GTA 5 root
4. Create Scripts Folder - Create a folder named "scripts" in your GTA 5 root directory
5. Install Mods - Place .dll script mods into the scripts folder

Versions Explained

SHVDN comes in multiple versions: v2 (ScriptHookVDotNet2.dll) for older mods targeting .NET Framework 4.8, and v3 (ScriptHookVDotNet3.dll) for newer mods with an improved API. Most modern mods use v3, but many classic mods still require v2. Install both for maximum compatibility.

Troubleshooting

• Scripts not loading - Ensure both Script Hook V and SHVDN versions are compatible
• Crash on startup - Check that you have the correct .NET Framework version installed
• Mod conflicts - Some SHVDN v2 and v3 mods may conflict with each other

FAQ

Is SHVDN required for all mods? No, only mods written in .NET languages. ASI mods and LUA scripts use different frameworks.

SHVDN vs Script Hook V? Script Hook V provides C++ native access. SHVDN adds .NET support on top of it. Both are needed for .NET mods.

Enhanced Edition? SHVDN requires Script Hook V which supports Legacy GTA 5 only.