SantosRP – A Complete GTA 5-Style DarkRP-Based Gamemode for Garry’s Mod
SantosRP is a fully developed gamemode for Garry’s Mod (GMod), designed to provide a realistic and immersive roleplaying experience, heavily inspired by GTA 5 RP. Originally built on a highly modified version of DarkRP, this gamemode was released on GitHub as a complete server package, containing everything needed to set up and run a full-fledged roleplay server. Although the official project has been discontinued, its robust framework continues to influence RP servers today.
Key Features of SantosRP
A Complete Server Framework
Unlike standard DarkRP setups, SantosRP provides a ready-to-run roleplay environment, including:
- A fully modified DarkRP base with custom mechanics and improvements
- Integrated addons (vehicles, weapons, businesses, UI enhancements, etc.)
- A database-driven persistence system (typically using MySQL)
- Optimized server-side and client-side scripts to enhance stability and performance
This makes it a turnkey solution for server owners, requiring minimal setup to get started.
Immersive UI and User Experience Enhancements
SantosRP features a completely reworked user interface, designed for a more immersive and professional roleplay experience. Key UI improvements include:
- A custom HUD displaying vital player information
- An advanced character creation menu, allowing players to customize their RP identity
- A redesigned job selection system, making career progression more structured
- Interactive menus for inventory, businesses, and legal/illegal activities
These enhancements create a polished and modern RP experience, setting it apart from traditional DarkRP servers.
A Realistic Economy and Business System
SantosRP introduces a player-driven economy, where users can:
- Start and manage businesses (shops, repair garages, restaurants, real estate, etc.)
- Buy and sell properties, including apartments, houses, and commercial spaces
- Engage in legal or illegal trades, depending on their chosen role
- Work for various organizations, including police, medical services, and government positions
This economy system fosters long-term engagement, as players must strategically manage their finances to progress.
Law Enforcement and Judicial System
Unlike basic RP servers where crime is often unchecked, SantosRP includes a fully implemented legal and justice system, including:
- A structured police force, complete with ranking, investigations, and training
- A court system, where players can act as judges, lawyers, or defendants
- A functioning jail system, with proper sentencing and parole mechanics
- Advanced crime mechanics, including planned heists, drug trafficking, and money laundering
This system balances criminal and legal gameplay, creating deeper roleplay interactions.
Advanced Vehicle Mechanics
SantosRP also features a highly detailed vehicle system, making transportation and logistics a core gameplay element. Players can:
- Purchase, customize, and resell vehicles in an in-game marketplace
- Refuel, repair, and maintain their cars
- Obtain driver’s licenses and follow traffic laws enforced by the police
- Engage in car chases and traffic stops, adding to the realism
The inclusion of realistic vehicle handling and interactions makes SantosRP feel closer to GTA RP than traditional GMod servers.
Why is SantosRP Unique?
A fully developed, standalone RP gamemode, not just an addon Pre-packaged with all necessary components (addons, database, UI, mechanics) More structured and immersive than standard DarkRP Balanced crime and law enforcement systems, adding depth to roleplay Advanced vehicle handling and economy, creating long-term player engagementAlthough the official SantosRP project has been discontinued, its source code remains one of the most comprehensive and well-structured RP gamemodes for GMod, making it a strong foundation for custom roleplay servers.
Are you looking to set up a SantosRP server, modify the gamemode, or explore its potential further? Let me know how I can help! 
