Fix: “Blocked Loading of File dinput8.dll or Xinput1_4.dll” Error in GTA 5

The error “Blocked Loading Of File dinput8.dll or Xinput1_4.dll” in GTA 5 usually occurs when BattlEye Anti-Cheat software blocks these DLL files, suspecting them to be unsafe or altered. This typically happens when BattlEye detects unauthorized modifications, often linked to modding tools, reshade presets, overlays, or input DLLs used to enhance gameplay or customize controls.

BattlEye is especially sensitive to third-party injectors or mods that interact directly with DirectInput or controller APIs.

Common causes for this error include:

• Using mods like Script Hook V, OpenIV, or ENB that inject DLLs to modify the game.
• Installing ReShade or similar tools that hook into the DirectX pipeline using dinput8.dll.
• Running input tools like DS4Windows that alter controller input processing.
• Security software mistakenly flagging or quarantining dinput8.dll or Xinput1_4.dll after system updates.

Problems with DirectX, such as missing runtime components or corrupted installations, can also affect the loading of these files.

Now, let’s explore solutions to resolve this error.

1. Disable BattlEye Anti-Cheat Software (If Playing Story Mode)

BattlEye scans for files or processes that might be used for cheating. Some mods may unintentionally trigger BattlEye’s checks, especially if they modify input or graphics-related DLLs.

If you’re playing Story Mode with mods, you can disable BattlEye, but accessing GTA Online won’t be possible.

1. Open the game launcher and go to Settings.
2. In the General tab, find the BattlEye option and toggle it off.
3. Launch the game and see if the issue is resolved.

2. Remove or Rename the Conflicting DLL Files

Mods or overlays often rely on these DLL files, making them appear suspicious to BattlEye. By removing or renaming the DLL files, you may prevent detection and fix the issue.

Note: Deleting these DLLs from the GTA V folder only affects the game, not your system. Windows keeps its versions separately.

1. Navigate to the GTA V installation directory:

   C:\Program Files\Rockstar Games\Grand Theft Auto V

2. Find the dinput8.dll and Xinput1_4.dll files and rename them.
3. If the game doesn’t launch properly after renaming, try deleting them.

3. Verify Game Integrity

Verifying game files will scan the installation directory, and if any files are corrupted or missing, it will replace them with copies from the servers.

We recommend removing any mods to ensure the game runs with official files post-verification.

1. Open the Rockstar Games Launcher.
2. Go to Settings and select GTA V under My Installed Games.
3. Click Verify Integrity.
   
4. Restart the launcher and launch the game once the process is complete.

4. Reinstall DirectX

Both dinput8.dll and Xinput1_4.dll are part of Microsoft’s DirectX runtime, essential for running GTA V. If these files are missing or corrupted in your system folders, reinstalling DirectX can help restore them. Note that reinstalling DirectX won’t resolve mod-related issues if these files were added by a mod.

Here’s how to proceed:

• If dinput8.dll or Xinput1_4.dll appears only inside the GTA V folder, they were likely added by mods (e.g., ReShade, ENB, or input tools). Simply removing or renaming them is the best solution (see Method 2).
• If these DLLs are missing or corrupted in your Windows system directories (System32 or SysWOW64), reinstalling DirectX can restore the original files and fix the error.

1. Visit the Microsoft DirectX Download page and click Download.
   
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install DirectX.
3. Restart your PC and check if the issue persists.

If you’re still facing the issue after trying all of the above, reinstalling the entire game may be needed. This removes any deeply corrupted files and starts you fresh.