Take the clean gta3.img and player.img you downloaded and paste them into the empty models folder.
Remember, the original Models folder isn't just a fallback—it is the stable foundation upon which modding genius is built. By restoring it, you aren't "losing your mods"; you are giving yourself a clean slate to build better, more stable modifications. Original Models Folder For Gta Sa
Now, go forth. Restore that gta3.img . Get CJ back to Grove Street. And this time... make a backup. Do you have a corrupted save file or a missing audio folder? Let us know in the comments below which GTA SA file you need help restoring next! Take the clean gta3
Even broken, rename your existing models folder to models_BACKUP . This gives you a safety net in case you have a mod you want to salvage later. Now, go forth
If you were previously using heavy mods (like 4K textures or hundreds of new cars), you likely had a Limit Adjuster (like Open Limit Adjuster or Fastman92). After restoring the original models, delete your gta_sa.set file located in Documents\GTA San Andreas User Files . This resets your graphics settings and prevents crashes from resolution mismatches.