Open IV is back online as Rockstar backs GTA V singleplayer modding

Take-Two has softened its stance opposing Grand Theft Auto V modding tool Open IV.

In a move that looks very much as if it was spurred by the intervention of Rockstar, Open IV is now back online. Furthermore, the developer has openly backed creative tools designed strictly for offline use.

Rockstar Games believes in reasonable fan creativity, and, in particular, wants creators to showcase their passion for our games,” a new statement said. After discussions with Take-Two, Take-Two has agreed that it generally will not take legal action against third-party projects involving Rockstar’s PC games that are single-player, non-commercial, and respect the intellectual property (IP) rights of third parties.

This does not apply to (i) multiplayer or online services; (ii) tools, files, libraries, or functions that could be used to impact multiplayer or online services, or (iii) use or importation of other IP (including other Rockstar IP) in the project. This is not a license, and it does not constitute endorsement, approval, or authorisation of any third-party project.”

The statement also reiterates that this peace offer could be withdrawn at any time if the studio believes Open IV is having a negative impact on online play.

Take-Two reserves the right to object to any third-party project, or to revise, revoke and/or withdraw this statement at any time in their own discretion,” it added. This statement does not constitute a waiver of any rights that Take-Two may have with respect to third-party projects.”

Open IVwas pulled by its creatorslast weekafter Take-Two threatened legal action. Open IV was temporarily removed from the internet and owners who booted it up were met with a message urging them to uninstall it to avoid possible legal issues”.

Open IV is used for a variety of tasks, including the creation of machinima videos that go beyond the scope of the in-game editor and the addition of extra assets such as vehicles and weapons. Those hardest hit included YouTubers who use the tool to create content.