PDML

PDML is the PAYDAY 3 runtime mod loader and integration layer.

CrimeForge creates mods as Unreal plugins. PDML discovers, loads, and handles those plugin-based mods at runtime.

It is used for Blueprint and logic mods, HUD mods, custom heists, mod settings, shared APIs, and runtime initialization.

PDML information window

The PDML entry in CrimeForge exposes an Information window that can be used to inspect runtime-facing packaging details such as PAL, chunking, directory labels, and registration state.

Mod directory

PDML mods are installed under:

PAYDAY3/Mods/

This is intentionally separate from:

PAYDAY3/Content/Paks/

Content/Paks belongs to the game’s own cooked content layout. The dedicated Mods directory keeps community mods separate and allows PDML to manage them cleanly.

This section documents the runtime contract between forged CrimeForge mods and the game.