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Deleting software from your Mac can sometimes be a complicated process, especially when it comes to uninstalling gaming launchers like the Epic Games Launcher. Whether you’re experiencing issues with the launcher or simply want to free up space on your Mac, this guide will walk you through the steps to uninstall the Epic Games Launcher on your Mac.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Uninstalling Epic Games Launcher
Uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher on Mac is not as straightforward as dragging the application to the trash. Like many other gaming launchers, the Epic Games Launcher leaves behind various files and folders on your system, making a simple deletion insufficient to completely remove it. This can lead to potential issues in the future, such as leftover files taking up storage space or conflicts with other gaming platforms.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we delve into the methods of uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher on Mac, there are a few things you should prepare:
1. Make sure you have administrative privileges on your Mac.
2. Quit the Epic Games Launcher if it’s currently running.
3. Back up any game files or saved data that you wish to keep before starting the uninstallation process.
Method 1: Deleting Epic Games Launcher Manually
Deleting the Epic Games Launcher manually involves locating and removing its files and folders from your Mac. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open Finder and click on the "Go" tab in the menu bar.
Step 2: Select "Go to Folder" from the drop-down menu.
Step 3: Type "~/Library" (without quotes) in the dialog box and click "Go."
Step 4: Locate the following folders and delete them:
– "Application Support/Unreal Engine"
– "Caches/com.epicgames.launcher"
– "Containers/com.epicgames.launcher"
– "Preferencse/com.epicgames.launcher.plist"
Pros:
1. Allows for a manual removal of the Epic Games Launcher.
2. Gives you direct control over the deletion process.
3. Helps ensure all associated files and folders are removed.
Cons:
1. Requires knowledge of the file system and where the launcher’s files are located.
2. May accidentally delete other files if not careful.
Method 2: Using Terminal
For more advanced users, removing the Epic Games Launcher via Terminal can be an efficient method. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Open Terminal on your Mac.
Step 2: Type or paste the following command and press "Enter":
"`
cd ~/Library/Application\ Support
"`
Step 3: Type or paste the following command and press "Enter":
"`
rm -rf com.epicgames.launcher
"`
Step 4: Type or paste the following command and press "Enter":
"`
cd ~/Library/Caches
"`
Step 5: Type or paste the following command and press "Enter":
"`
rm -rf com.epicgames.launcher
"`
Pros:
1. Faster method compared to manual deletion.
2. Can be useful for users familiar with Terminal commands.
3. Allows for a more precise deletion process.
Cons:
1. Requires knowledge of Terminal commands.
2. Mistakes in entering commands can have unintended consequences.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Uninstaller
If manually deleting files or using Terminal commands seems daunting, you can opt for third-party uninstaller tools specifically designed for removing applications on Mac. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Download and install a reputable third-party uninstaller tool such as AppCleaner or CleanMyMac X.
Step 2: Launch the uninstaller tool and locate the Epic Games Launcher in its list of installed applications.
Step 3: Select the Epic Games Launcher and click on the "Uninstall" or "Remove" button.
Step 4: Follow any additional on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation process.
Pros:
1. User-friendly interface.
2. Ensures a comprehensive removal of associated files.
3. May provide additional features for optimizing your Mac’s performance.
Cons:
1. Some third-party uninstaller tools may require a purchase for full functionality.
2. Can potentially delete other files if not used properly.
3. Relies on the reliability of the chosen uninstaller tool.
Method 4: Via Launchpad
For apps downloaded from the App Store, including the Epic Games Launcher, you can also use Launchpad to uninstall them. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open Launchpad on your Mac. You can do this by clicking the Launchpad icon in the Dock or searching for it using Spotlight.
Step 2: Locate the Epic Games Launcher icon in Launchpad.
Step 3: Click and hold the Epic Games Launcher icon until it enters the "wiggle" mode.
Step 4: Click the "X" button on the top-left corner of the Epic Games Launcher icon.
Step 5: Click "Delete" in the confirmation prompt.
Pros:
1. Quick and straightforward method for App Store apps.
2. No need for manual file or Terminal commands.
3. Familiar interface for Mac users.
Cons:
1. Only works for applications downloaded from the App Store.
2. May leave behind some associated files.
3. Limited control compared to other methods.
Why Can’t I Uninstall Epic Games Launcher?
Several reasons may prevent you from successfully uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher on your Mac. Here are three common issues and their corresponding fixes:
1. **The Launcher is still running**: Make sure to quit the Epic Games Launcher before attempting to uninstall it. Check the menu bar at the top of your screen for any active Epic Games Launcher processes and use the "Quit" option.
2. **Insufficient privileges**: Ensure that you have administrative privileges on your Mac. Without the necessary permissions, you won’t be able to delete system files or uninstall applications.
3. **Other applications are using Epic Games Launcher files**: Some games or software might have ongoing processes that rely on the Epic Games Launcher’s files. Close any associated applications before attempting to uninstall the launcher.
Additional Tips
Here are three additional tips to ensure a smooth uninstallation process:
1. **Reboot your Mac**: Restarting your Mac before and after the uninstallation process can help clear any temporary files or processes that might interfere with the removal of the Epic Games Launcher.
2. **Empty the trash**: After deleting the Epic Games Launcher files/folders, remember to empty the trash to completely remove them from your storage.
3. **Check for leftover files**: Even after using one of the methods above, there may still be leftover files associated with the Epic Games Launcher. Use Spotlight or a file search utility to locate and delete any remaining files manually.
5 FAQs about Deleting Epic Games Launcher on Mac
Q1: Can I reinstall the Epic Games Launcher after uninstalling it?
A: Yes, you can always reinstall the Epic Games Launcher on your Mac by downloading it again from the official Epic Games website.
Q2: Will uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher delete my game files?
A: Uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher will not delete your game files. However, it’s always a good idea to back up any important game files before uninstallation, just to be safe.
Q3: Are there any other ways to uninstall the Epic Games Launcher?
A: Yes, there are additional methods to uninstall the Epic Games Launcher, such as using specialized uninstaller software or manually deleting all associated files.
Q4: Can I delete the Epic Games Launcher directly from the Applications folder?
A: While you can delete the Epic Games Launcher from the Applications folder, it’s recommended to use one of the methods mentioned above to ensure a thorough removal of associated files.
Q5: Does uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher affect my game progress?
A: Uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher does not affect your game progress, as game saves and progress are often stored separately from the launcher itself.
In Conclusion
Uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher on Mac may seem challenging at first, but with the right steps and tips, you can easily remove it from your system. Whether you choose to delete the launcher manually, use Terminal commands, rely on third-party uninstaller tools, or utilize Launchpad, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and consider backing up any important game files before starting the process. By effectively uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher, you can free up storage space and potentially resolve any issues associated with the launcher on your Mac.