A Comprehensive Checklist to Ensure a Smooth Modding Experience
LemonLoader is the essential tool for modding Unity games on Android VR devices, especially the Meta Quest series. Although LemonLoader simplifies injecting custom code, a smooth installation requires carefully fulfilling certain prerequisites. Skipping any step can lead to errors or failed installs.
This guide details every prerequisite you must meet to ensure a successful modding experience with LemonLoader.
🔧 Hardware and Connectivity Prerequisites
🎮 Compatible Android VR Device
LemonLoader is officially designed for and tested on Meta Quest 1, Quest 2, Quest Pro, and Quest 3. Other Android VR devices may work but are not officially supported. Ensure your Quest headset has enough free storage—typically several gigabytes—to accommodate the patched APK, mods, and game files.
💻 A PC (Windows Recommended)
While LemonLoader runs on your Quest headset, a PC is required for initial setup, sideloading, and file management. Windows is recommended due to its better driver support and compatibility with SideQuest. Linux and macOS can work but may need additional configuration.
🔌 USB-C Data Cable
A USB-C to USB-A (or USB-C) data cable is mandatory to connect your Quest to your PC. It must support data transfer, not just charging. The official cable included with your Quest usually works best. If your Quest isn’t detected, the cable is often the culprit.
🖥️ Software and Driver Prerequisites (PC Side)
🔶 SideQuest (Highly Recommended)
SideQuest is a user-friendly app for sideloading, managing files on your Quest, and handling ADB commands. It’s nearly indispensable for LemonLoader installation. Download SideQuest here: sidequestvr.com. The installer usually sets up necessary ADB drivers automatically.
🖱️ ADB (Android Debug Bridge) Drivers
ADB enables communication between your PC and Quest via command line. SideQuest installs these drivers during setup. If SideQuest doesn’t detect your Quest, manually install Oculus ADB drivers from Meta’s official site and restart your PC.
🍋 LemonLoader Installer APK
This is the installer app you sideload onto your Quest to patch games. Download only from the official LemonLoader GitHub repository: LemonLoader on GitHub. Ensure you’re using the correct LemonLoader installer APK—not a game mod or unrelated APK.
🎮 Target Unity Game APK and OBB Files
You must have the APK (and OBB if required) files of the game you intend to mod, legally obtained. Compatibility between the game version and LemonLoader/mods is crucial; newer updates often break modding. Check modding communities and Discord servers for compatible versions.
🥽 Headset Configuration Prerequisites (On Your Meta Quest)
🔓 Developer Mode Enabled
Enable Developer Mode to allow sideloading and debugging:
- Open the Meta Quest App on your smartphone.
- Go to Menu → Devices, select your Quest headset.
- Tap Headset Settings → Developer Mode, toggle it ON.
You may need to register as a developer for free at Meta Developer Portal. Restart your Quest to activate Developer Mode.
✅ Allow USB Debugging Prompt
When connecting your Quest to your PC with Developer Mode enabled, a prompt inside the headset will ask to allow USB debugging. Choose Always allow from this computer and confirm by clicking Allow.
🚫 Disable Link/Air Link if Active
If Oculus Link or Air Link is active, it can interfere with SideQuest and ADB connections. Disconnect from Link or Air Link before using SideQuest for LemonLoader.
🔄 Understanding the Workflow Prerequisites
🗑️ Uninstall Original Game Before Patching
Android does not allow two apps with the same package name. Uninstall the unmodded game before installing the LemonLoader-patched version.
⏳ Patience on First Launch
The first launch of a LemonLoader-patched game may display a black screen or loading animation for several minutes (sometimes 5–20 minutes or more). Do not close the app or remove your headset during this time—LemonLoader is finalizing its initial setup.
📂 Post-Installation Prerequisites (Mod Files)
🛠️ ARM-Compatible Mods Only
Mods must be compiled for the ARM architecture used by Quest devices. PC MelonLoader DLLs (x86/x64) will not work. Always use mods labeled for LemonLoader or Android/Quest.
📁 Correct Mod Placement
Place mod files in this directory on your Quest:Android/data/com.developer.game/files/Mods/
Refer to LemonLoader Mod Storage Locations for detailed guidance.
Final Thoughts
By carefully following this checklist, you greatly increase your chances of a successful LemonLoader installation and open up the exciting world of modding on your Quest or compatible Android VR device.
For the latest updates, downloads, and support, visit:
🔗 LemonLoader Official Website
🔗 LemonLoader GitHub Repository
🔗 Meta Quest Developer Portal
Happy modding! 🍋✨