Before the official release of GTA 6, Rockstar announced new game Mod guidelines, clearly restricting players from modifying official storylines and transplanting content between its different titles. These guidelines went live on September 10 and apply to related creations by players and mod authors surrounding the GTA series.
The guidelines require that Mods must not expand or modify the official storylines, plots, missions, characters, and other existing lore of Rockstar's works. Authors are also prohibited from transplanting maps, locations, characters, plots, game assets, or other intellectual property content from one Rockstar game into another.
In early 2025, the "Liberty City Preservation Project" attempted to rebuild the GTA IV map within GTA V, but was subsequently taken down by Rockstar. The newly announced restrictions on cross-title transplantation further clarify that such Mods are not permitted.
Multiplayer Mods can only be operated through Rockstar's officially authorized Creator Platform or with separate direct permission from the company. Mods must not allow the game to run on platforms, consoles, or hardware devices not yet released by Rockstar, nor can they create or use cheat menus or other software that interferes with official multiplayer modes, online services, and authorized creator platforms.
Regarding asset usage, Mods must not modify or reuse voice acting performances from Rockstar's previously released games; using the voices, images, or likenesses of real people requires legal permission. Creators are also prohibited from borrowing Rockstar's intellectual property or logos to imply that a mod or custom server has official endorsement or is affiliated with the company.
The guidelines also prohibit pornographic content, as well as mods that promote violent extremism, self-harm, real-world threats, or endanger the safety of minors. Insults, bullying, threats, and harassment are likewise not allowed. Conflict role-playing and military simulations targeting real-world armed organizations are also prohibited, and all Mods must comply with Rockstar's User Rules and Community Guidelines.
Regarding commercialization, except for methods authorized through the Creator Platform, all Mods must remain non-commercial. Works approved for monetization may only use digital stores recognized by Rockstar and must comply with relevant laws and platform policies. The guidelines prohibit real-money gambling, loot boxes, gacha, and other random paid mechanics. They also forbid the sale of in-game virtual currency, the use of cryptocurrencies or NFTs, and charging fees for providing Rockstar-created game assets, missions, DLC, and other content.