The Meta Quest 3 has taken standalone VR gaming to impressive new heights — but what if you could push it even further? That’s where Lemon Loader comes in.
Built as a fork of the popular MelonLoader, Lemon Loader allows you to inject custom code mods into Unity-based VR games, such as Bonelab. While the modding process has its challenges (especially with constant Meta updates), this step-by-step guide will help you install Lemon Loader safely and effectively on your Quest 3.
⚠️ Disclaimer: Modding involves risks, including game crashes, instability, or even account issues. This guide is for educational purposes only. Proceed at your own discretion.
🧠 What Is Lemon Loader?
Lemon Loader is a mod framework that allows you to inject .dll files (code mods) into Unity games on Meta Quest devices. It enables deep customization, including:
- Custom mechanics
- Visual overhauls
- New in-game tools (like BoneMenu)
- Bug fixes & enhancements
It’s most widely used in games like Bonelab, where it’s considered essential for running complex mods.
✅ Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| 🥽 Meta Quest 3 | Fully charged, running a compatible OS version |
| 💻 PC | Windows recommended |
| 🔌 USB-C Cable | For connecting Quest to PC |
| 🧰 SideQuest | Install from https://sidequestvr.com |
| 🧪 Developer Mode | Must be enabled via the Meta Quest app |
| 📁 CX File Explorer | File management on the headset |
| 🟡 Lemon Loader APK | Download from the official or trusted source GitHub |
| 🎮 Game Installed | Example: Bonelab (check compatibility before modding) |
🔧 Part 1: Setting Up Your Quest & PC
1. Enable Developer Mode
- Open the Meta Quest app on your phone.
- Go to Menu > Devices > Quest 3 > Developer Mode.
- Toggle it On. (You may need to register as a developer — it’s free.)
2. Install SideQuest on PC
- Download SideQuest and install it on your PC.
- Connect your Quest 3 via USB-C.
- Accept the “USB Debugging” prompt inside the headset.
✅ Green dot in SideQuest = connected successfully.
3. Sideload CX File Explorer
- In SideQuest, search for “CX File Explorer”.
- Click “Install to Headset”.
⬇️ Part 2: Downgrade Your Game (If Required)
Meta updates frequently break mod support. If your game version is too new:
- Uninstall the game.
- Find older APK + OBB files from trusted modding forums.
- Sideload APK, then place the OBB file at: bashCopyEdit
Android/obb/com.YourGamePackage/
🧠 Check Reddit or Discord modding communities for current compatible versions.
📲 Part 3: Install Lemon Loader
1. Download the APK
- Get the latest Lemon Loader APK from GitHub or a trusted source.
2. Install via SideQuest
- Click the “Install APK” icon in SideQuest.
- Select the Lemon Loader APK file.
3. Launch on Your Quest
- On Quest, go to Apps > Unknown Sources.
- Launch Lemon Loader.
⚙️ Part 4: Patch the Game
- In Lemon Loader, find your game (e.g., com.StressLevelZero.BONELAB).
- Tap Patch.
- Wait for the process to complete. (You may see 3 dots for several minutes.)
🛑 DO NOT close the app or headset during this step.
🚀 Part 5: First Launch & File Setup
- Launch the game immediately after patching.
- When prompted, choose “Open App” — NOT “Restore App”.
- The first launch might take 5–10 minutes (black screen is normal).
- Once loaded, exit the game.
Verify Mod Folder Exists:
- Open CX File Explorer.
- Go to: bashCopyEdit
Android/data/com.StressLevelZero.BONELAB/files/Mods/ - You should see the Mods folder created by Lemon Loader.
🧩 Part 6: Install Code Mods
1. Download Mods
- Get .DLL mods from reputable sources (e.g., https://thunderstore.io).
2. Transfer Mods
Option A: Using SideQuest
- Use the File Manager in SideQuest.
- Navigate to the Mods folder.
- Drag and drop the .DLL files.
Option B: Using CX File Explorer
- Download mods directly on Quest.
- Use CX to move files into the Mods folder.
3. Launch Game & Test Mods
- Run your game.
- Mods should now be active.
- Use in-game mod menus (like BoneMenu) to activate features.
❗ Troubleshooting Tips
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Game stuck on black screen | Ensure correct patch version; reinstall APK + OBB |
| Mods not showing | Check file path; install missing dependencies |
| “Restore App” prompt | Always select “Open App” |
| SideQuest not detecting Quest | Re-enable Developer Mode, restart devices, reinstall drivers |
🌐 Stay Updated
- Join the Bonelab Modding Discord.
- Follow Lemon Loader GitHub for the latest releases.
- Watch for game patch updates — they can break mod support.
✅ Final Thoughts
Installing Lemon Loader on your Quest 3 can unlock an incredible modding experience — but only when done with precision. By following this guide and staying connected to the modding community, you’ll be able to enjoy a truly customizable VR gaming experience.
🔗 Official Lemon Loader Website: https://lemonloader.com
Happy modding! 🧠⚙️