In a significant shift for PC gamers, 2K Games has officially retired its launcher, marking a transition that allows players to access their favorite titles directly through Steam. This decision, described as a “complete sunset” of the software, affects a range of popular games including Firaxis’ Civilization 5, the Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition, and XCOM 2.
Streamlined Access to Games
With the recent update, the 2K Launcher has been removed from all games that previously relied on it, including notable titles such as Bioshock Remastered, Bioshock 2 Remastered, Bioshock Infinite, The Quarry, and Marvel’s Midnight Suns. Players can now enjoy a more seamless experience, launching these games directly with a simple click of the Play button.
For those playing the Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition on Steam and Epic, there are slight differences in the launch process, but the end result remains the same: easier access to gameplay. Earlier this year, Civilization 6 on Steam had already seen the removal of the launcher, and now it too opens directly into the game on Epic.
Civilization 5 has transitioned to using Steam Launch options, while XCOM 2 presents a unique case, as the launcher previously provided mod support functionality. This update also enhances compatibility with the Steam Deck, allowing players to enable mods more easily. For Epic users, XCOM 2 will now utilize the Original XCOM 2 Mod Launcher, while XCOM: Chimera Squad offers optional mod support as well.
Guidance for Players
In a recent blog post, 2K Games provided players with instructions to ensure the launcher has been completely removed. The 2KLauncher folder has been replaced with a text file named 2kLauncherRemoved.txt, which can be safely deleted. To finalize the removal process, players are advised to close and reopen Steam completely, not just minimize it, and reboot their PCs. For those using Epic, ensuring the latest game update is downloaded will suffice.
Importantly, saved games remain intact, and access to purchased titles on Steam or Epic will not be affected. However, for the few who may miss the 2K Launcher, the company has confirmed that there are no plans to reinstate it as an optional feature.
This transition comes in anticipation of the highly awaited release of Civilization 7 in February 2025, a title that is expected to attract a significant player base. As the gaming community continues to voice concerns over mandatory publisher launchers, 2K’s decision may reflect a growing trend towards more user-friendly gaming experiences, even if it does not signal a broader movement against all PC launchers.
