Updating MelonLoader is usually simple, but doing it incorrectly can break mods or reset settings. This guide explains the safest way to update MelonLoader while keeping your mods, configuration files, and game files intact.
MelonLoader is a universal mod loader for Unity games. It manages mod loading and keeps game files clean, which makes updates safe if handled properly.
Before You Start
- Back Up Your Game Folder
Before updating, make a backup of your entire game folder. Include the following:
- Mods folder
- Plugins folder
- UserData folder
- MelonPreferences.cfg
- Any custom config files
This ensures you can restore your game if something goes wrong.
- Know Where MelonLoader Is Installed
MelonLoader installs directly into the game folder. The following files and folders belong to MelonLoader:
- MelonLoader folder
- version.dll
- notice.txt
- MelonLoader.Config.cfg
- MelonLoader.ModHandler.dll
These files will be replaced when updating.
How To Update Melonloader Safely
Step 1: Download the Latest MelonLoader Installer
Download MelonLoader only from official sources:
Official website: https://melonloader.pro/
Direct installer download: https://melonloader.pro/download-melonloader/
Do not use third party websites.
Step 2: Run the MelonLoader Automated Installer
- Open the MelonLoader installer
- Select your game executable file (for example Game.exe or BTD6.exe)
- The installer will detect your current MelonLoader installation
- Choose the latest version from the version dropdown
- Click Install
The installer replaces only the core MelonLoader files. It does not delete Mods, Plugins, or UserData folders.
Step 3: Do Not Remove Your Mods Folder
When updating, keep these intact:
- Mods
- Plugins
- UserData
- MelonPreferences.cfg
Deleting these can cause mods to fail.
Step 4: Launch the Game to Rebuild Files
Start the game once after installation. MelonLoader will regenerate internal loader files. Once initialization is complete, the update is finished.
How To Check If The Update Worked
After launching the game:
- Look at the MelonLoader console
- Confirm the message “MelonLoader vX.X.X” appears
- Check that mods load normally
- Ensure no missing dependency errors appear
If everything loads correctly, the update succeeded.
What To Do If Mod Stops Working
Some mods require updates to support the new MelonLoader version.
- Check the mod developer’s GitHub or release page for updated versions
- Verify all dependencies are present, such as UnityEngine modules or external DLLs
- If the loader is corrupted, delete the MelonLoader folder and reinstall using the installer. Do not delete your Mods folder
Advanced Method: Manula Update
If the installer fails, you can manually update:
- Download the correct MelonLoader ZIP from official sources
- Extract the ZIP
- Copy the following into your game directory:
- MelonLoader folder
- version.dll
- All MelonLoader DLL files
- Overwrite old files when prompted. Keep the Mods, Plugins, and UserData folders intact
Tips To Avoide Losing Mods in The Future
- Keep a separate backup of your Mods folder
- Read the changelog before updating
- Update one mod at a time if compatibility issues appear
- Do not mix old MelonLoader files with new ones
- Use a Mods Manager tool if your game supports it
FAQ
Q: Will updating MelonLoader delete my mods?
A: No. The installer never deletes the Mods folder.
Q: Do I need to uninstall MelonLoader before updating?
A: No. Install the new version over the old one.
Q: Do I need to remove version.dll?
A: No. The installer automatically replaces version.dll.
Q: Will my configs reset?
A: No. UserData and MelonPreferences.cfg are not overwritten.
Importent Links
Official MelonLoader website:
https://melonloader.pro/
Download MelonLoader installer:
https://melonloader.pro/download-melonloader/
GitHub releases:
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