LUAC files are version-specific. Bytecode compiled for Lua 5.1 won't run (or decompile) easily with a Lua 5.3 tool. Use a hex editor to look at the file header; the 5th byte usually tells you the version.
Here’s a structured, useful guide to decompiling Lua bytecode ( .luac files).
Decompiling LUAC is an essential skill for any modern reverse engineer. Whether you use unluac for its precision or Luadec for legacy support, the goal remains the same: turning the "black box" of binary into an open book of logic.