LuaModLoader

A Lua-based mod loader for the 2020 Steam re-release of GTA IV ("Complete Edition", build 1.2.0.59, x86).

Since the classic ASI Loader and ScriptHookIV do not work on this specific version of GTA IV, LuaModLoader offers a modern alternative: it allows you to run scripts and mods directly in Lua without needing to manipulate raw memory or write C++ code.

Architecture and Operation

The project is divided into two main components:

• binkw32.dll (Proxy Loader): A lightweight proxy loaded automatically by the game (similar to Ultimate ASI Loader). It forwards real Bink calls to the original file (binkw32_orig.dll) and silently loads the real mod DLL in the background.
• LuaModLoader.dll (Native Payload): The core of the program. It includes a Lua 5.4 interpreter, DirectX hooks for rendering (D3D9), input hooks (DirectInput), and a built-in text editor.

Key Features

• In-game Code Editor: Press F6 to open the Lua editor (powered by Scintilla) to write, run, or test code live without restarting the game or using an external program.
• Dual Naming Conventions (SNAKE_CASE & PascalCase): Directly call over 3,100+ native functions using either standard SNAKE_CASE (e.g. SET_CHAR_HEALTH(ped, 200)) or PascalCase (e.g. SetCharHealth(ped, 200) / GetPlayerId()) for seamless compatibility with ScriptHookDotNet scripts.
• Rendering and Inputs: Draw rectangles/text on the screen over the game, and cleanly intercept keys (is_key_down, set_menu_open) to isolate game inputs when your mod is active.

Mod Example and Compatible Scripts

LuaModLoader makes creating mods very accessible. Here is a simple example of a script using the loader's native API:

-- Lua mod example: Set the player's health and armor
local player_index = GET_PLAYER_ID()
local player_ped = GET_PLAYER_CHAR(player_index)

SET_CHAR_HEALTH(player_ped, 200)
ADD_ARMOUR_TO_CHAR(player_ped, 100)
msgbox("Health and armor updated!")

Here are some compatible scripts and mods:

• ProTrainer-IV: A complete trainer menu (F4).
• Vehicle Nitro & Speedometer: A full mod with a HUD display and nitro on the Shift key.
• Heal & Armor: Instant player health recovery.
• Never Wanted: Automatically resets police wanted stars.
• God Mode Toggle: Toggle invincibility on F3.

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📚 Quick Documentation Links

• 🔍 Native Database Explorer (2,780+ Functions): Interactive search, category filters, and 1-click Lua copy.
• 🚀 Your First Lua Mod: 3-minute beginner guide to creating and running a mod.
• ⌨️ Keyboard Keys & Events: onTick(), is_key_down(), and key codes table.
• 📖 Common Natives Guide: Practical guide on how to code (health, cars, weapons, AI, weather).
• ⚙️ Mod Loader Lua API: Built-in loader utilities (draw_text, draw_rect, msgbox, log...).
• 📋 GTA IV Reference Lists: Easy copy-paste IDs for weapons, cars, and weather.
• 💡 Script Examples Catalog: 5 ready-to-use scripts with explanations.

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Installation (Users)

You do not need to compile the project to use it.

[!TIP] An automatic installer will be available soon to make this process even easier! In the meantime, here is the manual method:

1. Go to the Releases tab and download the latest version (binkw32.dll, LuaModLoader.dll, Scintilla.dll, Lexilla.dll).
2. Go to the root folder of GTA IV.
3. Rename the existing binkw32.dll file to binkw32_orig.dll (VERY IMPORTANT, this file manages the game's video and audio).
4. Copy the 4 downloaded files into this same folder.

To uninstall: delete the 4 copied files and rename binkw32_orig.dll back to binkw32.dll.

Compilation (Developers)

Requirements:

• Visual Studio 2026 ("Desktop development with C++", x86 toolset)
• CMake

[!WARNING] Always target Win32/x86 - GTAIV.exe is a 32-bit process. A DLL compiled in x64 will never work with this game.

cmake -S . -B build -G "Visual Studio 18 2026" -A Win32
cmake --build build --config Release

Output generated in the build\out\Release\ folder:

• LuaModLoader.dll
• binkw32.dll
• (Scintilla.dll and Lexilla.dll will be automatically copied there).