Unlike .ini files, keys.dat is a compiled binary file, not a plain text file.
Because the vanilla control mapping system is so fragile on modern systems, the GTA modding community has created definitive fixes that bypass the limitations of the traditional keys.dat file.
file acts as the bridge between your physical inputs (keyboard or controller) and in-game actions. While the game has "hard-coded" defaults, any changes you make in the Redefine Controls menu are written to this binary file. By default, it is found in the GTA Vice City User Files folder, typically located in your PC's directory. gta vice city keys.dat
: The game automatically generates this file with default settings if it is missing.
In standard PC installations, you can find the file by navigating to your user documents directory. It is not located in the main game installation folder where the gta-vc.exe resides. Instead, look here: Unlike
Because Vice City was built for older operating systems, modern Windows environments often clash with how the game reads user inputs. Here are the most common keys.dat errors and their solutions. 1. The Broken Mouse Bug (Cannot Look Around)
If you are reinstalling the game or moving to a new PC, you do not need to manually remap your keys. Go to your GTA Vice City User Files folder. Copy keys.dat . Paste it into a backup folder or cloud storage. While the game has "hard-coded" defaults, any changes
Modders have reverse-engineered the keys.dat format. It contains a series of device descriptors followed by arrays of button-to-action mappings. To add support for a new controller (e.g., DualShock 4):
Find where your game is installed (e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Rockstar Games\Grand Theft Auto Vice City ).
By understanding the difference between these files, you can fix your game in seconds and get back to enjoying one of the best soundtracks in gaming history.
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City features two main control schemes that you can select from the game's options menu: