It’s game over for the Liberty City Preservation Project. Fan-made Liberty City mods that had GTA fans hyped to revisit Liberty City inside GTA 5. After years of development, the ambitious project is officially off the map, following a conversation between the modding team, World Travel, and Rockstar Games.

The Liberty City mod, which launched earlier this month, allowed players to roam the Niko Bellic iconic stomping grounds with updated visuals, traffic, pedestrians, and even weather effects. With improved lighting and new scenarios, it offered a fresh perspective on Liberty City’s gritty charm. Unfortunately, its success drew Rockstar’s attention—and not the good kind.

Lead modder Nkjellman announced the takedown on Discord, saying that due to the shocking attention our project got, and after meeting with Rockstar Games, we have chosen to discontinue the Liberty City Preservation Project. While expressing gratitude for the community’s support, nkjellman hinted at future modding endeavors for the GTA series.

Rockstar’s stance isn’t new. In 2017, the company shut down another Liberty City mod, citing its policy against importing intellectual property—even its own—into other games. While the exact reason for the latest takedown remains unspecified, rumors of an official GTA 4 remaster might be a factor.

When the GTA 6 trailer came out it was slated for a massive 2025 release. Rockstar shows its commitment to steering the way forward for this franchise through its actions. The custom version of Liberty City must end its run today yet Rockstar Games might have amazing news planned.

FAQs

Is GTA 4 based on Liberty City?

The game GTA 4 takes place entirely in Liberty City. The game Grand Theft Auto IV brings 2008 Liberty City back to life through major updates.

Can you face a GTA 5 ban from using game modifications?

Rockstar will remove your GTA Online access if your car changes give unfair advantages or break their rules.

What occurred with Niko Bellic in GTA V?

The LifeInvader profile of Niko Bellic contains an Easter Egg that confirms he remains a driver for Roman's taxi service.