| Offset (bytes) | Size | Description | |----------------|------|-------------| | 0x00–0x03 | 4 | Header / Magic number (always 0x01 0x00 0x00 0x00 in observed versions) | | 0x04–0x07 | 4 | Number of action mappings (typically 0x52 or 82 decimal) | | 0x08–EOF | Variable | Array of mapping entries |

Author: [Researcher Name] Date: October 26, 2023

In contrast to modern games that use registry keys, XML, or JSON for settings, GTA: Vice City relies on several .dat files for configuration. Among these, keys.dat (typically located in the game’s data directory) serves the specific purpose of defining the mapping between physical input devices (keyboard keys, mouse buttons, joystick axes) and in-game actions (e.g., accelerate, fire, enter vehicle).