- Rockstar just released a new digital launcher that hosts the publisher’s games.
- The new launcher supports automatic updates and cloud save functionality.
- Gamers who download the new launcher will get a free copy of GTA: San Andreas.
Rockstar Games is releasing its new digital launcher for PC users which will allow gamers to grab the publisher’s games. The launcher is still in its early stages and there are no special features that will make you move on from more established storefronts like Steam, but Rockstar wants to make things enticing for its fans.
If you install the launcher, you get a copy of Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas for free. You do not need to purchase any of the games on sale to redeem your free copy. According to data miners, the version of GTA: San Andreas being offered for free is no different from Steam version which is based on recent mobile ports. It is missing some graphical touches of its console counterparts.
Currently, there are seven games up for grabs on the newly released launcher – Manhunt, Midnight Club, LA Noire, and other old Rockstar classics. When you download the launcher for the first time, it automatically adds all Rockstar games you own to the library automatically. If you already own some Rockstar’s games on Steam it will offer a “Play on Steam” option which will open up Valve’s launcher. Automatic updates and cloud saves are enabled so you should not have any trouble moving your save files from one PC to another.
It is unclear if Rockstar will go Battle.Net’s route and self-publish its games on PC on the Rockstar Launcher instead of relying on third-party launchers. The launcher was launched amidst widespread rumors of Red Dead Redemption 2 making it to PC. There has been no official confirmation from Rockstar yet but the flagship title being a Rockstar Launcher exclusive could draw the franchise’s loyal fanbase.
