Desert map 2.0
After my snowy_mountains mod, I decided to release a desert map mod for the game. Yes, it’s definitely not the best desert map mod you’ve ever seen, but I didn’t really want to spend more time on something like this. It’s just a fun little project I made, but it’s still pretty cool!
The map is located above Los Santos again, and its size is roughly the same as Los Santos.
About the Map
This map was made using a model from the Arena War DLC. I scaled it up and copied and pasted it over a large area.
Performance and Optimization
I hope the map runs smoothly for you! On my system, I get 64 FPS, which is the maximum my monitor supports, even without LODs (Levels of Detail).
To Install This Mod
You will need the following software:
OpenIV
If you’re not familiar with OpenIV, take the time to learn about it before modifying your game. Incorrect usage can damage your files. Always make a copy of your files in the “mods” folder before installing any mod.
If you’re already familiar with dlcpacks, you probably know how to install this mod. If not, follow the steps below:
Installation Instructions
Open OpenIV and navigate to the following directory: update/x64/dlcpacks
Place the desert_map folder inside the dlcpacks directory.
Next, declare the DLC in the game: Navigate to: update/update.rpf/common/data
Locate the file named dlclist.xml. Open it with a text editor, such as Notepad or Notepad++.
Add the following line to the end of the file, just before the closing tag: dlcpacks:\desert_map\
Save the file and close the text editor.
That’s It!
Run your game and enjoy the mod!
Changing the Map Location
If you don’t like the default location of the map, you can change it. Follow these steps:
Available Locations
The mod offers three map locations:
Top-left corner of the map
Left side of the map
Above Los Santos (Default location with the larger map)
How to Change the Location
Go to the mod folder and locate the file named “Change location of the map.”
Inside, you will find three .ymap files, each corresponding to a different location. Refer to the included image for guidance on which .ymap corresponds to which location.
Choose the .ymap file for your desired location.
Open OpenIV and navigate to: update/x64/dlcpacks/desert_map/dlc.rpf/x64/levels/gta5/desert_map.rpf
Replace the current .ymap file with the one you selected.
Important Warning
If you change the location, do not forget to remove the default file: desertpos_abovemap_larger.ymap
Having multiple .ymap files loaded simultaneously can cause performance issues or even crashes, depending on your PC configuration:
For high-end PCs: It might work fine.
For low-end PCs: This could overwhelm the game.
Tips for Better Performance
Disable traffic: This helps reduce strain on your system.
If your computer struggles to handle both maps, consider using a mod to temporarily disable the Los Santos map.
2.0 Changelog
You can now change the location of the map.
I heard you, people! You requested a change of location, so here you go! The default location is still above the map. Check out the new instructions in the installation text to learn how to change it—it’s really easy!
Feel Free to Use and Edit This Mod!
You can do whatever you want with this mod—edit it, replace stuff, or even reupload it. I don’t mind! All I ask is that you credit me, please.
I promise I’ll be back with better mods, but for now, my personal life is more important than GTA 5 mods. I recently had surgery and need time to recover.