Our verdict: The Rockstar Games Launcher is something you install because Rockstar's PC games need it, not by choice. Even copies bought on Steam or Epic sign in through it. It does its job of updating games and syncing saves, but it is one more background launcher and account.
About Rockstar Games Launcher
The Rockstar Games Launcher is Rockstar Games' own PC client. You sign in with a Rockstar Games account to install, update and launch Rockstar titles such as Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2, buy games in the Rockstar Store and keep cloud saves for supported titles.
Rockstar games bought on Steam or the Epic Games Store also go through the launcher: you start the game in Steam or Epic, sign in to the Rockstar Games Launcher and link the accounts. Steam copies are still installed and updated by Steam. The installer also adds the Rockstar Games authentication software, Chromium Embedded Framework and Visual C++ runtimes.
What it does well
- Game library. Installs, updates and launches Rockstar games bought in the Rockstar Store.
- Steam and Epic linking. Links Steam and Epic accounts so copies from those stores can start.
- Cloud saves. Syncs save games for titles that support it.
- Automatic updates. Keeps the launcher and installed Rockstar games up to date.
- Install scan. Finds existing Steam and disc installations and adds them to the library.
Who it is for
Good fit
Anyone playing GTA V, Red Dead Redemption 2 or other Rockstar games on PC.
Look elsewhere
Players without Rockstar games, or anyone who wants to avoid an extra launcher and account.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free, no subscription
- Cloud saves for supported games
- Picks up existing Steam and disc installs
Cons
- Required even for Rockstar games bought on Steam or Epic
- Needs a Rockstar Games account and an internet connection to sign in
- Only Rockstar games in the store
How to install Rockstar Games Launcher
Rockstar's minimum requirements are Windows 10 64-bit, a quad-core CPU, 2 GB RAM, a DirectX 11 graphics card and 1 GB of disk space. You need an internet connection to sign in and activate games. On first start, use Settings > General > Scan PC for supported installs to add games you already have.
Questions about Rockstar Games Launcher
Is the Rockstar Games Launcher free?
Yes. The launcher and the Rockstar Games account are free; the games are paid.
Do I need the Rockstar Games Launcher for GTA V on Steam?
Yes. Rockstar's PC titles sign in through the launcher; you start the game in Steam, sign in to the launcher and link your Steam account. Steam keeps installing the updates.
Does the Rockstar Games Launcher work on Windows 7?
No. Rockstar lists Windows 10 64-bit as the minimum, and support for Windows 7 and 8 has ended.
