GTA V Directory Validator

I frequently encountered problems with GTA V after updates, as mods would become corrupted. Unable to determine which files were new and which were old, I resorted to reinstalling the entire game, downloading a massive 60GB, which could be a nightmare if Rockstar Servers were unavailable. Tired of this cycle, I used Visual Studio 2017 to create an application that checks for changes within the GTA V folder and deletes unnecessary files.

How to use it

Important note: You might need to run the program as Administrator because deleting files in the GTA V folder requires permissions.

Step 1: Generate your original database

If you've recently installed a clean GTA V or want to save your current folder status, generate your own database. First, select your GTAV root folder (ensure the program finds GTA5.exe). Then click "Generate Original DB" and choose a safe location (outside the GTA V folder) to save the file. If you haven't recently installed the game and need the Default Database, it is included in the download. It represents a default Rockstar Installer installation (not Steam).

Step 2: Clean your folder

Select your root folder (again!), click "Load DB", navigate to the database file you created earlier, and click "Open". This loads the original database into the program, enabling the "COMPARE!!!" button. Clicking it displays a list of changes made to your GTA V folder. You can select all or specific entries for deletion using the "Delete" button. I've also included a "List" option to export the data, which could be helpful for sharing your file structure with others.

Final notes

Due to limited free time, the application is simple. I wanted to share it because I know others face similar issues. It works if used correctly, but misuse can lead to errors or crashes. Future updates are possible, but this is the initial version. Currently, the application only checks for added files and does not detect modifications to default files. Further development may address this based on user feedback.

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First Upload: November 11, 2024 Last Updated: November 11, 2024