2K Launcher Update Has Players Celebrating

2K Launcher Update Has Players Celebrating

Key Takeaways

  • 2K Games has removed its launcher from all games on Epic and Steam, simplifying the launch process for players.
  • The update affects game launches in different ways, but players can now easily launch games directly on Steam and Epic.
  • Games like XCOM 2 will still retain their original mod launcher for players who enjoy community content.

As a seasoned gamer with countless hours spent navigating through various launchers, I can confidently say that 2K Games’ decision to remove their launcher from games on Epic and Steam is nothing short of a breath of fresh air. The removal of this cumbersome step in the gaming process has been long overdue, and it feels like a weight lifted off my gaming setup.


2K Games has decided to simplify gameplay for its players by eliminating the necessity of using their launcher across all games available on both Epic and Steam. Moreover, the 2K Launcher Beta for Sid Meier’s Civilization 5 has been withdrawn as well. This action means gamers can now directly launch their games from these platforms without needing to go through an additional step.

2K Games’ announcement has given gamers a cause for rejoicing, as they no longer need to grapple with publisher-specific launchers that have been a source of frustration for many reasons. The main concern lies in their effect on game performance and unnecessary integration which can complicate the gaming experience on platforms like Steam. These launchers often leave players questioning their necessity, given that they are frequently perceived as providing minimal value, causing compatibility issues or even preventing games from starting up. Now, with 2K Games’ decision, gamers can look forward to a smoother and less complicated gaming journey.

Starting November 18th, the game company dropped some exciting news: they’re wrapping up what they’ve dubbed the “Complete Sunset,” meaning their 2K Launcher will no longer be necessary for any of their supported games! In a later blog post, 2K Games confirmed this change by swapping out the launcher folder with a simple text file.

2K Games Confirms Launcher Removal from Epic and Steam

The changes impact each game uniquely, with an aim to simplify things for all users. For instance, games such as remastered versions of BioShock, BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite, along with The Quarry, Marvel’s Midnight Suns, will now start playing immediately without any introduction screens. The Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition will also commence gameplay directly, but players must follow specific instructions provided in 2K Games’ blog post to ensure smooth operation. In contrast, games like XCOM 2 retain their original mod launcher for users who prefer community content. Sid Meier’s Civilization 5 on Steam now offers its own launch options, allowing players to choose between DirectX 9 or DirectX 10/11.

If you’re finding leftover files from the launcher on your computer, the company offers step-by-step guides for users to thoroughly clean their systems of outdated files. To address user queries about the 2K Launcher while playing Steam games, the developers have clarified their stance in the FAQ section. If the 2K Launcher still appears after starting a game, try restarting Steam first as the modifications to launch settings become active only post-restart. For any ongoing problems, the developer advises players to submit a support request.

For individuals who’ve navigated the launcher for numerous years, this update seems to bring a refreshing shift. It streamlines the user interface, allowing enthusiasts to concentrate more on the gameplay aspect rather than dealing with technical hiccups.

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2024-11-26 16:43