REFramework is one of the most powerful tools for modding and customizing games built on Capcom’s RE Engine — including Resident Evil titles, Monster Hunter Rise, Dragon’s Dogma 2, and more.
Accessing its in-game menu is essential for managing mods, changing configurations, and utilizing developer features such as free camera, scripting, and debugging tools.
This guide explains how to open and control the REFramework menu on both PC (desktop) and VR setups, along with solutions if the menu doesn’t appear.
🔹 Part 1: Default Method (PC/Desktop Users)
For nearly all RE Engine games, REFramework’s in-game menu can be opened using a single default key.
âś… Default Keybind
Key: Insert (Ins)
The Insert key is typically located near the Delete, Home, and Page Up keys on a standard keyboard.
How to Use:
- Launch your game as normal.
- Once in the title screen or gameplay, press the Insert key.
- The REFramework overlay menu should appear immediately.
- Press Insert again to close the menu.
🧠Troubleshooting: Menu Doesn’t Open
If pressing Insert does nothing, here are common reasons and fixes:
1. Missing Insert Key (Compact Keyboards)
Some laptops and smaller keyboards (TKL, 60%) may not have a dedicated Insert key.
Fix: The Insert function is often combined with another key (like Fn + Delete or NumPad 0 with Num Lock off). Check your keyboard’s layout or manual.
2. REFramework Failed to Load
If you see no REFramework text overlay on startup, it likely didn’t load.
Fix: Make sure the main file — dinput8.dll — is placed directly in the game’s root directory, next to the executable (e.g., re4.exe, MonsterHunterRise.exe).
You can always find the latest installation guide and updates on REFramework.dev/blog.
🔹 Part 2: Changing the Menu Key (Rebinding Options)
If Insert isn’t convenient, you can assign a different key either from inside the menu or by editing the config file manually.
Method 1: Change Key from the In-Game Menu
If you can open the menu once, follow these steps:
- Press Insert to open the menu.
- Navigate to the Configuration tab.
- Look for the option labeled Menu Key or Menu Keybind.
- Click it and press your desired new key (like F1, Home, or End).
Method 2: Edit the Configuration File Manually
If you cannot open the menu at all:
- Go to your game’s root folder.
- Open the REFramework config file — usually named something like:
re2_fw_config.txt(Resident Evil 2 Remake)mhrise_fw_config.txt(Monster Hunter Rise)dd2_fw_config.txt(Dragon’s Dogma 2)
- Search for the line that looks like this:
REFrameworkConfig_MenuKey_V2=45The number 45 is the keycode for the Insert key. - Replace 45 with the keycode for your preferred key (for example, 36 for the Home key).
- Save the file and relaunch the game.
You can reference a full Windows Virtual Key Code list online to find your preferred value.
🔹 Part 3: Opening the Menu in VR Mode
If you’re using REFramework-powered VR mods (like in Resident Evil 2/3/7/8), the menu can be accessed either inside your headset or via desktop view.
🎮 In-Headset (SteamVR/OpenVR)
- Gesture Method: Look at the palm of your left hand with your head and right hand aimed toward it.
- The REFramework VR overlay should appear directly in your headset.
This design helps prevent accidental activation during gameplay.
đź–Ą Desktop Fallback
If the gesture doesn’t work, or you prefer desktop control:
- Simply press Insert on your physical keyboard.
- The REFramework menu will appear on your monitor — you can then remove your headset and use your mouse to interact with it.
🔹 Part 4: Game-Specific Notes
| Game Title | Default Menu Key | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monster Hunter Rise | Insert | Standard control; menu loads automatically with REFramework. |
| Dragon’s Dogma 2 | Insert | Used for mod configuration and scripting. |
| Monster Hunter Wilds | Insert | Expected standard REFramework integration key. |
| Resident Evil 2–8 Series | Insert | Universal hotkey for REFramework tools and VR settings. |
| Monster Hunter: World | N/A | MHW uses a different engine; REFramework does not apply. |
⚙️ Summary of Menu Access Methods
| Scenario | Primary Method | Backup / Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Standard PC | Press Insert | Edit [game]_fw_config.txt |
| Compact Keyboard | Use Fn + Delete or NumPad 0 | Manually rebind key |
| VR Mode (In-Headset) | Palm gesture (left hand) | Press Insert on desktop |
| REFramework Not Loading | Check for dinput8.dll | Reinstall from REFramework.dev |
🧠Final Notes
Accessing the REFramework menu is your first step into customizing, optimizing, and scripting your favorite RE Engine games.
Whether you’re using it for simple visual tweaks or advanced mod development, understanding how to control the menu ensures full access to all REFramework’s capabilities.
For ongoing updates, detailed tutorials, and troubleshooting guides, visit the official website:
👉 REFramework.dev
or explore our technical write-ups on
👉 REFramework.dev/blog