GTA 5 Modding - Steam vs Epic vs Rockstar Launcher 2025

GTA 5 Modding: Steam vs Epic vs Rockstar

Does your GTA 5 platform affect modding? This guide compares modding on Steam, Epic Games Store, and Rockstar Games Launcher versions.

Quick Comparison

FeatureSteamEpicRockstar Mod CompatibilityBestGoodGood Update ControlEasyHardMedium Downgrade EaseEasiestDifficultMedium Community SupportMostGrowingGood

Steam Version

Pros:

• Easiest to downgrade via depot
• Can control updates
• Most mod testing done here
• Largest community
• Workshop support (limited)

Cons:

• Requires Steam running
• Slightly higher price usually

File Location:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Grand Theft Auto V

Epic Games Version

Pros:

• Often on sale/free
• Same game files as others
• All mods compatible

Cons:

• Harder to prevent updates
• No easy downgrade method
• Less community documentation

File Location:

C:\Program Files\Epic Games\GTAV

Rockstar Games Launcher

Pros:

• Direct from publisher
• Sometimes exclusive bonuses
• Can block updates via hosts

Cons:

• Additional launcher required
• Downgrade more complex

File Location:

C:\Program Files\Rockstar Games\Grand Theft Auto V

Mod Compatibility

All versions use the same game files, so mods work identically on all platforms. The only differences are:

• File paths
• Launcher requirements
• Update mechanisms

Update Prevention

Steam:

1. Properties > Updates > Only update when I launch
2. Launch via Script Hook V, not Steam

Epic:

1. Difficult - Epic forces updates
2. Consider offline mode

Rockstar:

1. Block update servers in hosts file
2. Use offline mode

Recommendations

• Best for Modding: Steam (easiest management)
• Budget Option: Epic (often discounted)
• Already Own: Your platform works fine

Conclusion

All platforms support modding equally. Steam has slight advantages for update control, but dont rebuy just for modding!