One of the most common questions in the RE Engine modding community is whether REFramework needs to be updated after each new game patch.
The short answer: yes, usually it does.
While small hotfixes might not always break REFramework, most major updates or patches for games like Resident Evil, Monster Hunter Wilds, or Dragon’s Dogma 2 will require a compatible REFramework update. This behavior is normal and expected because of how the framework integrates with the game’s executable files.
Below is a detailed explanation of why this happens, what you should do after a patch, and what to expect in terms of updates.
Why REFramework Breaks After Game Updates
1. How REFramework Works
REFramework, created by the developer known as praydog, is a sophisticated modding tool that injects custom code into RE Engine games. It acts as a scripting platform and API that allows mods to communicate directly with the game in real time.
2. The Root Cause: Memory Offsets and Signatures
REFramework hooks into specific memory addresses and code signatures inside the game’s executable (EXE) file.
When the developer releases a patch, even a small change in the EXE—such as adding or moving a function—can shift these memory offsets.
Once this happens, the framework’s hooks no longer match, causing REFramework to fail to load properly.
The result is often:
- The game crashes on startup, or
- The game launches without REFramework features (menu missing, mods not loading).
The main loader file, typically dinput8.dll (or sometimes dxgi.dll), becomes temporarily incompatible until REFramework is updated.
Why the Developer Must Update REFramework
Each time a game’s executable changes, the REFramework developer has to re-analyze the new EXE, identify the new memory addresses, and update the hooks.
This process requires manual reverse engineering and testing.
Occasionally, updates also add new anti-tamper or anti-cheat mechanisms, which REFramework needs to adapt to before it can safely inject code again. This is why new REFramework builds sometimes take a few days to release after a major patch.
What You Should Do When REFramework Stops Working
When your game receives a new update and REFramework no longer works, follow this safe procedure:
| Step | Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Remove REFramework temporarily | Delete or move the dinput8.dll (or equivalent loader file) from the game’s root directory. | This prevents crashes and allows the game to launch normally without mods. |
| 2. Back up your saves | Before playing the updated game, back up your save files. | While REFramework rarely affects saves directly, mods that depend on it might. |
| 3. Wait and monitor updates | Check official REFramework pages, such as the REFramework website, Nexus Mods, or community forums. | Developers and contributors usually post status updates or new builds shortly after patches. |
| 4. Download the latest version | Once available, download the newest build (the “Nightly” version is often fastest to receive fixes). | Replacing your old files ensures compatibility with the latest game patch. |
| 5. Test your mods | After updating REFramework, launch the game and test your installed mods. | Some mods may also require individual updates from their creators. |
The Reality: The Update Cycle Is Normal
Needing to update REFramework after a game patch is simply part of the modding process.
Each update temporarily disrupts modding but ensures long-term stability and compatibility.
The REFramework developer and community are known for fast turnarounds—often releasing working versions within a few days. Keeping REFramework up-to-date is the only reliable way to prevent crashes and maintain mod functionality after patches.
In summary:
If REFramework stops working after a game update, it’s because the game’s executable changed. This temporarily breaks REFramework’s hooks until a new build is released. Removing the framework files, backing up your saves, and waiting for the latest compatible version is the safest and most effective solution.
For official updates, documentation, and downloads, visit the REFramework official website.