After making sure you have everything needed to mod the game, it’s time to install your first mods.

Essentials Pack

The Essentials Pack, created by Junior_Djjr, contains all the core mods you need. Download and install everything in your GTA: San Andreas directory, and make sure to read the included readme.txt.

This pack includes everything necessary to run San Andreas on modern hardware and sets a solid base for modding. It comes with mods like Silent Patch, CLEO, ASI Loader, Widescreen Fix and the most important, Modloader. All of these are regularly updated, so even if you take a break from the game, it’s worth checking for updates later.

MixSets

An .asi mod that includes a collection of tweaks and settings you can customize through its .ini file. It also provides some essential configurations that help the game work smoothly with larger mods later on, such as RoSA Project.

This should be the first mod you install in your ModLoader folder. I recommend reading the ModLoader tutorial by Junior, at least the basics and priority sections. It covers good practices for installing mods, though the process is mostly just dragging and dropping folders into the ModLoader directory.

Install MixSets in the ModLoader folder and tweak the .ini to your liking. You can use one of the presets included in the original download, or if you want my recommended settings, you can download them here and simply overwrite the MixSets .ini with mine.

GInput

A mod that improves gamepad support in GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas. It provides proper vibration support, Xbox/PS2 button icons, and even allows you to use cheats with a controller. It also supports two-player local co-op in San Andreas.

To install, download the mod and place it in your ModLoader folder. Make sure to read the instructions carefully to set it up correctly.

Open Limit Adjuster

Open Limit Adjuster (OLA) increases many of the game’s internal limits, fixing hundreds of crashes and making it a requirement for many mods. It’s always a good idea to have OLA installed.

Some mods, like Project2DFX, already include OLA, so be careful not to install multiple copies at the same time. Simply install it in your game directory or ModLoader folder and make sure to read the readme.txt carefully.

Improved Fastloader

Improved Fastloader speeds up GTA startup by skipping the initial intro and splash screens. You can configure it to skip loading screens and automatically load your last save game.

This mod is extremely useful for testing, saving potentially hundreds of hours during repetitive gameplay or mod development. Some players may feel it alters the original experience by removing loading screens. Use it according to your preferences.

If you’ve followed along up to this point — congratulations! You’ve successfully built a strong foundation for modding GTA: San Andreas. Your game is now stable, optimized, and ready for expansion. At this stage, you can already enjoy a smooth and modernized experience that stays faithful to the original feel of the game.

By the end of the next part, your game will look significantly better without losing that classic San Andreas atmosphere we all love.