Epic Games Store Redesign Introduces a Faster Launcher Amid AI Layoffs
Laying off workers for AI is nothing to celebrate.
The Epic Games Store launcher has long faced criticism for being sluggish, a flaw previously acknowledged by CEO Tim Sweeney. While a redesign aims to resolve these performance issues, the company's promotional messaging has drawn scrutiny.
AI Pivot and Workforce Impact
In its blog post announcing the update, Epic highlighted its use of AI-assisted workflows to build the new software. This followed a statement from Sweeney detailing a major company pivot toward AI acceleration, intended to empower teams to build more efficiently.
We have a huge pivot underway here at Epic, moving developers around to retool for maximum AI acceleration. The aim isn't to do the same stuff with fewer people, but to enable everyone here to build MORE and BETTER stuff, and to bring the benefits to all teams using Unreal. — Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) October 12, 2026
The focus on AI development comes closely on the heels of significant workforce reductions at the company, including layoffs that cut hundreds of positions over recent years, leaving remaining staff and observers critical of the company's public celebration of automated coding.
New Features and Linux Support
Despite the controversial rollout, the updated launcher addresses several longstanding complaints. It is notably faster than previous versions, matches startup speeds of competing platforms, allows users to access games installed via Steam, and introduces official Linux support for the first time.
However, the platform continues to struggle with a distinct identity, lacking unique features that differentiate it from established storefronts like Steam or GOG.
