REFramework is a powerful, open-source modding framework for games built on Capcom’s RE Engine, such as Resident Evil, Devil May Cry 5, and Monster Hunter. It provides a variety of tools, including Lua scripting, performance fixes, developer tools, and a free camera, making it a favorite among PC modders.
One of its most important features is the Loose File Loader, which allows players to replace or add game assets—like textures, models, and audio—without touching the game’s original .pak files. This makes modding safer, simpler, and more accessible.
Understanding Loose Files in Modding
Modern RE Engine games store assets like textures, models, and sounds in compressed .pak archive files. These archives make loading faster but are difficult to edit. Loose files are individual files placed directly into the game folder in the same path the game expects.
The Loose File Loader intercepts asset requests: if a loose file exists, the game will load it instead of the original. If no loose file exists, the game defaults to the original archive. This system allows modding without the risks or complications of repacking game archives.
Benefits of Using the Loose File Loader
- Easy Setup: Most loose file mods only need to be dropped into a specific folder, typically
\natives. No complicated mod managers are required for basic mods. - Instant Enable/Disable: Simply add or remove files to activate or deactivate a mod. No reinstallations needed.
- Safe for Your Game: Original archives are never modified, reducing the risk of breaking your game.
- Conflict Management: If multiple mods target the same file, the loader uses the last file it finds, making simple conflicts easy to manage.
- Quick Testing for Modders: Replace or update a single file to test changes immediately without restarting the game.
Installing REFramework and Enabling the Loose File Loader
- Download REFramework: Get the latest stable or nightly build (
dinput8.dll) from the official source or trusted modding sites. - Install REFramework: Place the
dinput8.dllfile in the game’s root folder (the same folder as the game’s.exe). - Enable the Loose File Loader:
- Launch your game. REFramework will initialize automatically.
- Press the Insert key (default hotkey) to open the REFramework overlay menu.
- Look for the Loose File Loader option or Load Loose Files toggle and enable it.
- Some games require closing the menu and restarting to apply the setting.
- You can double-check by opening
re2_fw_config.txtin the game folder and ensuringLooseFileLoader_Enabled=true.
Placing Loose File Mods
- Locate the Folder: Most loose file mods go into the
\natives\folder in your game’s root directory. Lua scripts or some other files might go into\reframework\autorun\. - Match the Game’s Path: The mod’s folder structure must mirror the game’s internal file paths exactly. For example, a custom character texture should go here:
[Game Root Folder]\natives\chara\player\pl\pl001\tex\custom_texture.dds
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Game crashes at launch: The mod may be corrupted, incompatible, or missing a file. Remove all mods and add them back one by one.
- Settings don’t persist: Check that
re2_fw_config.txthasLooseFileLoader_Enabled=trueand isn’t set to read-only. - Mod isn’t loading: Verify the folder structure matches the game’s internal paths exactly.
- Performance drops: Having too many loose files can impact disk I/O. Use fewer loose files or switch large texture mods to packed archives if possible.
Conclusion
The REFramework Loose File Loader is a simple, safe, and effective way to customize RE Engine games. By enabling it and placing mods correctly, players can enhance graphics, swap models, and add new content without risking the integrity of their game files. Whether you’re a modder or a casual player, mastering the Loose File Loader opens up endless possibilities for personalizing your gaming experience.
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