MelonLoader is the universal mod loader for Unity games, enabling players to inject custom mods into both Mono and Il2Cpp titles. To function properly, MelonLoader depends on several Windows runtimes and redistributables. Missing any of these can cause crashes, injection failures, or the installer not detecting the game correctly.
This article explains every required dependency, why it matters, and how to install it correctly.
Why Dependencies Matter
MelonLoader injects both .NET (managed) and native (unmanaged) code into Unity games. Because Unity games can run as 32-bit or 64-bit processes, and because MelonLoader relies on Microsoft runtimes, your system must have the correct packages installed.
When a dependency is missing, you may experience:
- Game closing instantly
- MelonLoader not appearing
- “Missing DLL” or runtime errors
- Il2Cpp loader failing during initialization
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables (2015–2019 / 2022)
Required for ALL MelonLoader versions
MelonLoader’s bootstrap and native DLLs rely on the Microsoft VC++ v14 runtime.
Which packages to install
You must install both:
- vc_redist.x86.exe
- vc_redist.x64.exe
Even on a 64-bit system, some Unity games use 32-bit executables. Installing both packages eliminates most startup failures.
Official download source
Microsoft VC++ Redistributables:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/cpp/windows/latest-supported-vc-redist
.NET Desktop Runtime 6.0+
Required for Il2Cpp Unity games and modern MelonLoader builds
Most Il2Cpp-based Unity games require the .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0, which MelonLoader uses to run the Il2Cpp resolver and mod-loading logic.
Which version to install
Install the runtime matching your game architecture:
- .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0 x64
- .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0 x86
If you are unsure, install both — this avoids detection failures.
Download from Microsoft
https://dotnet.microsoft.com/en-us/download/dotnet/6.0
Optional Dependencies: .NET Framework 3.5 / 4.x
These are only required for older Unity games or older mods.
When they are needed
- Unity games built on older engines
- Mods developed using .NET Framework instead of .NET Core
- Tools like asset extractors that rely on classic .NET
Windows 10 and 11 include .NET Framework 4.8, but 3.5 must be enabled manually through:
Control Panel → Programs → Turn Windows features on or off → Enable .NET Framework 3.5
Windows Updates and Admin Permissions
MelonLoader requires modern Windows runtime files. These may not exist if your system is outdated.
To avoid issues:
- Install all pending Windows Updates
- Run MelonLoader installer and runtime installers as Administrator
This ensures registry entries and runtime libraries are created correctly.
Installation Checklist
Use this list to guarantee a successful setup:
- Install Visual C++ 2015–2022 Redistributables (x86 + x64)
- Install .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0 (x86 + x64)
- Install .NET Framework 3.5/4.x only if required
- Restart the PC after installing runtimes
- Launch the game once without mods before installing MelonLoader
Common Dependency-Related Errors
“MelonLoader cannot find .NET 6”
Fix:
- Install both x86 and x64 Desktop Runtime 6.0
- Restart the PC
Game closes immediately after installing MelonLoader
Fix:
- Install VC++ (x86 + x64)
- Check MelonLoader/Latest.log for missing runtime errors
Installer fails or freezes
Fix:
- Run installer as Administrator
- Update Windows
- Reinstall VC++ redistributables
Safe Download Sources
Use only trusted links:
- MelonLoader (Community Hub):
https://melonloader.pro/download-melonloader/ - MelonLoader GitHub:
https://github.com/LavaGang/MelonLoader - Microsoft VC++ Redistributables:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/cpp/windows/latest-supported-vc-redist - .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0:
https://dotnet.microsoft.com/en-us/download/dotnet/6.0
Final Recommendations
To guarantee MelonLoader works across all supported Unity games:
- Install VC++ 2015–2022 (x86 + x64)
- Install .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0 (x86 + x64)
- Enable older .NET Framework only if a game/mod requires it
- Keep Windows updated
- Check MelonLoader/Latest.log for exact dependency errors
With these dependencies installed, MelonLoader will run smoothly on nearly all Unity games with zero setup issues.