MelonLoader creates a log file called Latest.log every time a game launches. This log contains detailed information about the loader, the game initialization process, and any mods or plugins that are loaded. Understanding this file is essential for troubleshooting startup crashes, mod errors, or compatibility issues.
This guide explains how to locate, read, and interpret the Latest.log file, common errors you may encounter, and how to fix them.
Where to Find The Latest.log
The Latest.log file is located in the MelonLoader folder inside your game directory:
GameFolder/MelonLoader/Latest.log
Example paths:
- C:\Games\MyGame\MelonLoader\Latest.log
- SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\MyGame\MelonLoader\Latest.log
Make sure you have read access to this folder. Some antivirus or security software may block file creation, which can also cause errors.
What Information Latest.log Contains
- Loader Version
At the top of the file, you will see the MelonLoader version:
Using MelonLoader vX.X.X
This confirms the loader version and indicates that MelonLoader successfully started.
- Runtime Initialization
The log lists the initialization of the managed runtime and Il2Cpp assemblies (if the game uses Il2Cpp). Look for lines indicating successful loading of assemblies:
Initializing Il2Cpp assemblies…
Loading assemblies…
Managed runtime started successfully
- Mods and Plugins Loading
Each mod or plugin loaded will be listed with its name and version. For example:
Loading mod: ExampleMod.dll v1.2.3
Successfully loaded plugin: ExamplePlugin.dll
If a mod fails to load, the log will show an error message including the cause.
- Error Messages
Common messages include:
- Failed to load assembly: Indicates a mod or plugin could not be loaded due to missing dependencies or incorrect version
- Missing dependency: A required DLL or runtime is not installed
- Il2Cpp initialization failed: The game may have incompatible Il2Cpp binaries or architecture mismatch
- System Information
Some lines provide system details, such as:
- Game architecture (x86 or x64)
- OS version
- .NET runtime version
- Visual C++ runtime detection
These details help determine if crashes or errors are due to missing system dependencies.
How To Interpret Common Errors
Failed To Load Assembly
Cause: A mod or plugin is not compatible with the current MelonLoader version or is missing dependencies.
Fix:
- Check the mod requirements on the official page
- Remove or update the mod
- Ensure the mod DLL is placed in MelonLoader/Mods
IL2CPP Initialization Failed
Cause: Architecture mismatch, corrupted game files, or missing .NET runtime.
Fix:
- Verify game is x86 or x64 and use matching MelonLoader build
- Install .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0
- Check Visual C++ Redistributable installation
Missing Dependency
Cause: A required DLL or runtime is missing.
Fix:
- Install the correct Visual C++ redistributable for your system (x86 and x64)
- Install required .NET runtime
- Verify all mod dependencies
NoO LATEST.LOG CREATED
Cause: MelonLoader did not start.
Fix:
- Check version.dll and dobby.dll placement next to the game executable
- Verify no antivirus is blocking file creation
- Use the official installer to reinstall MelonLoader
Step-By-Step Troubleshooting Using Latest.log
- Locate the file in GameFolder/MelonLoader/Latest.log
- Open it with a text editor (Notepad or Notepad++)
- Look for the line Using MelonLoader vX.X.X to confirm loader starts
- Scroll to see if mods are loading successfully
- Identify any lines containing “Failed”, “Missing”, or “Error”
- Apply fixes based on error type (see above)
- Test the game after each fix
Tips For Using Latest.log Efffectively
- Always backup the game folder before changing mods or loader versions
- Read the log immediately after a crash; logs are overwritten on next launch
- Keep a copy of logs if troubleshooting complex mod setups
- Compare logs before and after updating mods or MelonLoader
Official Links
MelonLoader official website:
https://melonloader.pro/
Download MelonLoader installer:
https://melonloader.pro/download-melonloader/
MelonLoader GitHub:
https://github.com/LavaGang/MelonLoader
Microsoft Visual C++ redistributable:
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