In a refreshing move for PC gamers, 2K Games recently decided to phase out its launcher from all their PC titles, a change that now allows players to jump into 2K games directly through Steam.
Previously, the 2K Launcher was something players had to deal with for various PC games from the company, such as Civilization 5 by Firaxis, the Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition, and XCOM 2. However, with a recent update, not only has the 2K Launcher been stripped from all titles on both Epic and Steam platforms, but it has also been completely removed in the case of Civilization 5’s 2K Launcher Beta.
This revamp is a welcome relief for fans eager to dive straight into classics like Bioshock Remastered, Bioshock 2 Remastered, and Bioshock Infinite, in addition to more recent favorites like The Quarry and Marvel’s Midnight Suns. Now, hitting “Play” takes you straight into the action. However, for the Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition, slight differences in launching remain between Steam and Epic.
Civilization 6 gamers on Steam have had the benefit of a launcher-free experience since earlier in the year—now, Epic users can enjoy the same streamlined launch directly into the game. Civilization 5, on the other hand, benefits from using Steam’s native launch options.
A key update was needed for XCOM 2 on Steam, as it relied on the launcher for mod support. The upside? These updates now facilitate mod access on the Steam Deck. For those on Epic, launching the game will now automatically start the Original XCOM 2 Mod Launcher. XCOM: Chimera Squad offers mod options as well, with a choice to launch directly if preferred, and yes, Steam Deck aficionados can also mod Chimera Squad with ease.
In a detailed blog post, 2K revealed they’ve replaced the 2KLauncher folder with a simple 2kLauncherRemoved.txt text file, which players can safely delete. Yet, to fully ensure the launcher’s disappearance, 2K suggests restarting Steam completely, not just minimizing it. This involves closing it entirely and perhaps rebooting your system, especially if you’re on Epic. Make sure you’ve snagged the latest game updates to keep everything running smoothly.
The good news? Your saved games are safe. You’re not losing access to any titles purchased on Steam or Epic. As for those rare fans mourning the loss of the 2K Launcher, it looks like there won’t be an option to bring it back. As 2K humorously noted, they don’t plan to reintroduce an optional Launcher but appreciate the interest.
This strategic move comes ahead of the much-anticipated release of Civilization 7, slated for February 2025. Given the series’ popularity, it’s reassuring to know fans will be able to access it directly via Steam.
While 2K’s decision is a victory for PC gamers who have long criticized mandatory publisher launchers like those from Ubisoft and EA, it seems unlikely it will trigger a widespread launcher removal trend. These tools still play crucial roles in cloud saving and serving as digital storefronts.
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