Arma 3
Keep Workshop dependencies, Launcher presets and server requirements together.
Start with Workshop and the official Launcher
Steam handles Workshop downloads. The Arma 3 Launcher presents subscribed mods and declared dependencies, and lets you add local mods. Local mods still need their author’s installation and update instructions.
Use the official Launcher as the authority for your enabled set and saved preset. Different servers can require different combinations.
Build a repeatable preset
Read the server’s mod list and each author’s requirements. Subscribe to required dependencies as well as the main mod; dependencies can have requirements of their own.
Let Steam finish downloading. If updates remain queued, close Arma 3, Launcher and Publisher, then check Steam again.
Select the required mods and order in Launcher, then save a named preset. Keep separate presets for different groups.
If joining fails, compare the server’s published list with your preset. Servers do not always advertise complete Workshop identifiers, so automatic matching can be incomplete.
Separate missing files from incompatible combinations
A missing target directory, absent Addons directory or missing PBO/EBO content indicates an incomplete local mod state. Inspect Launcher’s reported condition and the author’s requirements before changing files.
If files are present, compare versions and your enabled preset with the server’s requirements. Test a minimal server-approved set where possible to reduce the number of possible conflicts.
Disable a suspect mod before unsubscribing, and check whether another enabled mod depends on it. Do not delete Workshop caches as a generic fix or assume game-file verification repairs every third-party addon.
Custom arguments select existing content
Arma 3 documents a semicolon-separated -mod list and parameter files. These select existing local content; they do not download mods, resolve dependencies or freeze Workshop versions. Keep BattlEye and server signature checks intact. Use Launcher unless you have a specific, understood need for custom arguments.
Heimdall support for this setup
This guide and its game definition are prepared for an upcoming Heimdall update. They are not yet included in the released app. For now, use the links above to manage your setup in the game’s own tools.
Use Steam and the Arma 3 Launcher to download mods, select dependencies and save presets. Automatic installation and repair through Heimdall are not available for this setup.
Sources & review
Reviewed October 22, 2026. Check the linked project instructions before changing your installation; supported versions and workflows can change.
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