"Method" to prevent game updates.
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Obviously this applies only to users who haven't started the game since the latest update a few days ago. Moreover, I have the "retail" version (DVD disks) , so I have no idea whether this will work on "steam" or "social club" versions. Theoretically, it should work.
Before you do anything else, it is always a great idea to make a backup of the following files, so if this method doesn't work for you, you will at least be able to "backdate" your game.
"GTA5.exe"
"GTAVLauncher.exe"
"PlayGTAV.exe"
"update.rpf"Ok with that said, you only need to do two very simple things:
- First, download and install the "GTAVLauncherBypass" : https://www.gta5-mods.com/tools/gtavlauncherbypass
Please read the ultra simple instructions provided by the author.
- Then create a new "rule" in your windows firewall settings to prevent the Rockstar "Launcher" from accessing your Internet connection. It's super easy, don't worry. If you have Windows 10 here's a nice video explaining the steps:
Done! Now you should be ready to launch the game and hopefully the launcher will be bypassed and blocked by the firewall as well (therefore no update) and all your mods will be working just fine, as if an update was never released at all.
Please note: When you are ready, you should start the game from the "GTA5.exe" file NOT from the "PlayGTAV.exe or "GTAVLauncher.exe"! If you read the instructions provided by the "GTAVLauncherBypass" author, you already know this, but just wanted to highlight this critical step!
I am in no way an expert when it comes to GTA V modding etc., I just learned many things by reading LOTS of useful threads in this forum. I want to say a big "thank you" to all those pro-members who share their vast knowledge with us less experienced members! You rock!
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Just wanted to add:
Tested it for the 5th time, works like a charm. Game started, no launcher, no update, no crashes everything seems fine. Yesterday played for 5+ hours straight, every mod worked, no crashes.
Someone may say, what is the purpose of bypassing the GTAVLauncher and then adding a rule in the firewall settings to block the launcher as well. It's just the way I approached the whole issue, just to be extra sure that if for some reason the "GTAVLauncherBypass" did not work, I would have an "extra layer of security" and the firewall would eventually prevent/block the Launcher.
Ultimately, what really matters is that it seems to be working so far. At least in my case. Let me know how it plays out in yours.