How to Fix GTA 4 Not Opening (100% Working Method)🔧| GTA IV Not Launching Fix When Click On Launcher

Is GTA IV refusing to open when you click the launcher? You're not alone—this is a common issue for many players especially with the newer Windows versions or modded setups. Luckily there’s a 100% working fix that can get your game running smoothly again. Whether you're using the Steam Rockstar Launcher or cracked version this method will help you solve the issue step by step.

How to Fix GTA 4 Not Opening (100% Working Method)🔧| GTA IV Not Launching Fix When Click On Launcher

What Causes GTA 4 Not to Launch?

The most common reasons GTA IV doesn't open are:

  • – Missing or outdated Games for Windows Live (GFWL)
  • – Incompatible or missing DLL files
  • – Corrupted game files
  • – Problems with ScriptHook mods or launchers
  • – Running on Windows 10/11 without proper compatibility settings

How to Fix GTA 4 Not Opening (Step-by-Step)

  1. Install GTA 4 Not Opening Fix : You Can Downlo0ad The Mod File From This Link Click here.
  2. Run the Game as Administrator – Right-click LaunchGTAIV.exe or GTAIV.exe go to Properties > Compatibility and check “Run as Administrator.”
  3. Set Compatibility Mode – In the same Properties window set Compatibility to Windows 7.
  4. Update DirectX and Visual C++ – Make sure you’ve installed the latest DirectX 9 and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables (2005-2015).
  5. Use Commandline File – In your game folder create a commandline.txt file and add this line:  -nomemrestrict -norestrictions
  6. Reinstall or Verify Game Files – If you're on Steam right-click the game > Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity.
  7. Disable Mods Temporarily – Rename your scripts folder or remove dsound.dll ScriptHook.dll and other mod-related files.
  8. Install xLive.dll (Offline Patch) – Download xlive.dll and paste it into your GTA IV directory. This disables GFWL dependency.
  9. Check for Missing Files – Make sure files like binkw32.dll xlive.dll and GTAIV.exe are present.
  10. Restart and Try Again – After doing all steps reboot your PC and relaunch the game.

Conclusion

Following these steps will almost always fix GTA IV not launching issues. Whether it's GFWL missing DLLs or compatibility problems this guide covers the core reasons your game might not start. After applying these fixes you should be able to enjoy Liberty City again without any launch problems.