Do I Need GTA 5 Installed to Play FiveM?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

The short answer is yes, you need an installed copy of Grand Theft Auto V to run FiveM. FiveM is a multiplayer modification that builds on top of GTA V – it does not function as a standalone game.

What Exactly is FiveM?

FiveM started as a multiplayer mod created back in 2013 by a small team of developers known as CitizenFX. Initially called FiveReborn, it was designed to allow people to play Grand Theft Auto V together online in player-created game modes.

Over the years, FiveM has grown into one of the most popular multiplayer mods for GTA V on PC. As of 2023, there are over 300,000 active FiveM users with thousands of community-run servers. Here are some key facts about FiveM:

  • Free to download and 100% community-developed.
  • Allows for customized servers hosting up to 128 players.
  • Provides a platform for roleplaying, racing, deathmatch, and other game modes.
  • Contains a server browser to find and connect to different communities.
  • Allows players to develop their own game modes and scripts.

In a nutshell, FiveM takes the open world of GTA V and transforms it into a platform for endless multiplayer possibilities. While Rockstar‘s GTA Online offers structured competitive modes, FiveM enables creative collaborations, roleplay, and player-driven worlds tied together by a shared love of GTA.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing FiveM

To properly install and run FiveM, you will need to own a legal copy of Grand Theft Auto V for PC. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure You Have GTA V Installed

Double check that you have the latest version of GTA V installed and updated on your PC. You can verify this by launching GTA V and checking for any available updates through the Rockstar Games Launcher.

2. Check Your PC Specs

While the minimum specs for FiveM are similar to GTA V‘s, having a more powerful PC will allow you to run at higher graphical settings and install more mods. Here are the recommended PC specs for ideal FiveM performance:

  • Processor: Intel Core i7 8700k or better
  • Memory: 16GB RAM
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 8GB or better
  • Storage: SSD with at least 60GB free space

3. Download the Latest Version of FiveM

Head to the FiveM website and download the latest version of the mod to your PC. Currently, the latest stable build is version 1.8.1.

4. Disable Antivirus Software

Your antivirus may detect FiveM as a false positive, so it‘s best to whitelist FiveM and disable your antivirus when installing. You can re-enable it afterwards.

5. Run the FiveM Installer

Once the download is complete, run the FiveM.exe installer file. The installer will handle setting up any dependencies and register FiveM with your system.

6. Launch FiveM

After installation finishes, you can launch FiveM directly from your start menu or desktop shortcut.

Upon your first launch, FiveM will install any remaining components it needs. This may take several minutes. Once complete, you‘ll be able to browse servers and start playing!

Connecting to Your First FiveM Server

Once you have FiveM set up, your next step is finding and connecting to your first server. FiveM provides a server browser that displays available communities categorized by type, popularity, and more.

Here is the process for connecting to a server:

  1. Open the FiveM application.
  2. Click "Play" on the landing screen.
  3. Select "Servers" in the menu.
  4. Browse server types or use the search bar to find one you like.
  5. Click "Connect" on your desired server to join!

For first-timers, I recommend starting with a beginner-friendly public server to get familiar with the basics of FiveM multiplayer. Avoid jumping right into hardcore roleplaying (RP) communities as they often expect knowledge of advanced mechanics.

The Legality of FiveM

FiveM occupies a gray area in terms of legality. While Rockstar has tolerated its existence, there was a period of controversy surrounding FiveM‘s early versions.

Here is a quick history of the legal issues:

  • April 2015 – Rockstar demands FiveM cease operations, claiming it enables piracy.
  • May 2015 – After negotiations, FiveM returns under the condition it remains only an online multiplayer mod. Single-player mods are disallowed.
  • July 2021 – Rockstar bans the sale of NFTs connected to FiveM servers, sparking debate.

The core argument comes down to this – Rockstar claims FiveM allows people to play GTA Online for free, reducing sales. However, FiveM contends all its content is original and requires purchasing GTA V.

As long as you legally own GTA V, you are in the clear to use FiveM for multiplayer. But stay away from piracy!

Tips for New FiveM Players

As an avid FiveM fan myself, here are my top tips for new players getting started:

  • Find a welcoming community. Look for servers labelled newcomer-friendly or with coaches to show you the ropes.

  • Learn RP etiquette. Roleplay (RP) has nuanced rules. Study server guides so you don‘t accidentally metagame or powergame.

  • Master the controls. Keybinds differ from GTA V, so re-learn movement, combat, and other controls.

  • Use a controller. Playing with a gamepad rather than mouse & keyboard takes time to adjust to but provides a smoother experience.

  • Install helpful mods. Cosmetic mods like VisualV and World of Variety improve graphics while gameplay mods like vMenu expand your options.

  • Have patience. It takes time to learn FiveM‘s quirks! Don‘t get discouraged if you struggle at first.

With the right server and mindset, FiveM can become an endless source of entertainment. Few games offer the creative freedom and community spirit of this mod.

The Bottom Line

FiveM is an incredible multiplayer playground that transforms GTA V into a platform for roleplaying, racing, building, and endless community creativity. But without the base GTA V game files present on your system, FiveM has nothing to build on top of.

To join the fun of FiveM roleplaying and multiplayer, you absolutely need Grand Theft Auto V installed on your PC. Treat it as an essential part of setting up FiveM rather than an optional component.

Once you fulfill that GTA V requirement, an exciting second life awaits in Los Santos and the ever-expanding worlds built through FiveM. See you on the streets!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

Similar Posts