The most recent update to the Rockstar Games Launcher has ceased its support for Windows 7 and Windows 8, while also implementing several other adjustments to the application. Although anticipated by PC users, this marks a significant shift for Rockstar Games Launcher, which has accommodated these versions of Microsoft's prevalent operating system since its inception.
Initially launched in September 2019, Rockstar Games Launcher serves as the storefront and launcher for PC games by the creator of GTA. It operates in conjunction with the Rockstar Games Social Club platform and provides access to 11 titles as of early 2024. Upon its release, Rockstar Games Launcher enticed users with a complimentary copy of GTA: San Andreas to drive adoption.
While both San Andreas and several other classic games accessible via the platform were originally compatible with Windows 7 and Windows 8, the application itself has now withdrawn support for these operating system versions. This change was introduced in the latest update, identified by version number 1.0.84.1829.
Rockstar Games Launcher Supported Platforms as of Early 2024
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
Rockstar's decision to discontinue support for the Windows 7 and Windows 8 versions of its PC launcher should not come as a surprise to the company's fans. Even the newer of those two operating systems is almost 12 years old, and the announcement was made back in October 2023 after Microsoft ceased providing security updates for these operating systems, allowing fans ample time to prepare for the change. Microsoft had long offered free Windows upgrades to users of older OS versions, although this program ended in September 2023.
In addition to ending support for Windows 7 and Windows 8, the latest version of Rockstar Games Launcher also incorporates minor bug fixes. Furthermore, the official patch notes mention several stability improvements, although they do not provide details. The update was released on January 30 and is mandatory to continue using Rockstar Games Launcher, now only available on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
The future of Rockstar Games Launcher remains uncertain, as it has received few substantial updates since its 2019 launch. However, recent evidence suggests that the platform might no longer include the Rockstar Games Social Club, as Rockstar may be phasing it out before the anticipated release of the GTA 6 PC port, presumed to be around 2026, although not officially confirmed.
Rockstar Games Launcher Update 1.0.84.1829 Patch Notes
- Support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 has been removed from the Rockstar Games Launcher
- Improvements have been made to the stability of the Rockstar Games Launcher
- Minor bug fixes have been made to the Rockstar Games Launcher