Epic Games Store Debuts AI-Vibecoded Launcher Preview, Takes Aim at Steam
Epic has released a preview of a rebuilt Epic Games Store launcher that it says was vibecoded with AI. The company claims it uses fewer resources, starts faster, and has a responsive UI, while also saying it is faster than Steam. The preview still lacks many features, and Epic says player feedback will shape the final version.
Epic's preview rebuild, described as AI-assisted, is framed as an early test rather than a finished release. It reportedly uses fewer system resources, opens more quickly, and offers a smoother interface, with Epic comparing its speed favorably to a competing storefront. The company says feedback from this phase will guide later development.
The client remains important beyond buying games: it is described as the dependable route for Unreal Engine 5 assets, plug-ins, updates, and development tools, leaving developers heavily reliant on it. The announcement also confirmed Fortnite support for Linux, while Epic's leadership continues to promote AI across its plans.
If Epic's AI-assisted rebuild matures, players could see faster, lighter storefronts and stronger competition with Steam, potentially shifting expectations around performance and feature parity. Developers who rely on Epic's tools may be affected if reliability or missing features persist, while AI-focused development messaging may influence how studios discuss tooling and creative work. Linux players may benefit if Fortnite support arrives. These outcomes remain uncertain because the preview is incomplete and shaped by feedback.