Tutorial

FiveM VisualSettings and Timecycle

Every FiveM graphics pack relies on two kinds of files: VisualSettings.dat and timecycles. Here is what they do, how to apply them cleanly and how to roll back.

The two files to know

VisualSettings.dat

GTA V's global rendering settings: light intensity, headlight glow, bloom, sky and screen effects. It applies regardless of time or weather.

Timecycle

Files describing lighting hour by hour and weather by weather: sky colour, fog, shadows, exposure. This is what gives a pack its mood, from sunrise to night.

Apply a VisualSettings and timecycle pack

Back up your plugins folder

Before any change, copy the contents of %localappdata%\FiveM\FiveM.app\plugins to a backup folder on your desktop. You can roll back with a drag and drop.

Remove the old pack

Never stack two packs: two different VisualSettings or timecycles conflict. Delete or move the old pack before installing a new one.

Install the new pack

Extract the archive and place the pack folder in %localappdata%\FiveM\FiveM.app\plugins, without a nested folder. The VisualSettings and timecycle files are already included in the pack.

Clear the cache

In %localappdata%\FiveM\FiveM.app\data, delete only the priv folder. Without this step, FiveM may keep showing the old look.

Test several times and weathers

The timecycle changes with time and weather: a pack can look perfect by day and too dark at night. Judge it at several moments before keeping or switching.

Common mistakes to avoid

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Mixing files from two packs: the look becomes inconsistent depending on the time

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Forgetting to clear the cache after switching packs

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Editing a file without keeping a copy of the original

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Judging a pack on a single in-game hour: the timecycle varies from day to night

Full installation tutorial See FiveM graphics packs

VisualSettings and timecycle FAQ

Where is the VisualSettings file of a Hiromasa pack?

You do not need to look for it: it ships inside the pack folder, which you place in %localappdata%\FiveM\FiveM.app\plugins.

What is the difference between VisualSettings.dat and timecycle?

VisualSettings.dat sets rendering globally (lights, headlights, bloom). The timecycle sets lighting by time and weather. A graphics pack usually changes both.

Can I get banned for a modified VisualSettings?

Hiromasa packs only change local visual files, without touching gameplay. Some servers do enable FiveM pure mode, which blocks modified files: check your server's rules.

How do I restore GTA V's original look?

Delete or move the pack folder in plugins, clear the cache (priv folder), then restart FiveM.

Do I need ReShade for a VisualSettings pack?

No. Hiromasa packs rely on VisualSettings and timecycle and work on their own. ReShade is a separate, optional tool.