Table of Contents
- 1. Compatibility
- 2. Feature Comparison
- 3. Resource Usage & Performance
- 4. Security & Privacy
- 5. Updates & Patching
- 6. Multiplayer & Online Services
- 7. Future Development & Community Support
- 8. Cross-Platform Game Library Integration
- 9. Game Modding & Third-Party Integrations
- 10. Achievements & Game Progress Tracking
- 11. Game Installation & Management
- 12. FAQ

What is Heroic Launcher?
Heroic Launcher is an open-source, cross-platform game launcher designed for Epic Games and GOG titles, providing seamless access on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Built using Electron and React, it offers a native alternative to official clients, making it a powerhouse for Steam Deck users and Linux gamers. Heroic integrates Wine, Proton, and DXVK to enable Windows-exclusive games to run on Linux and macOS. It features custom installation directories, game launch arguments, FPS limits, and shader pre-caching to enhance performance. Users can control game updates, enable Vulkan-based rendering, and tweak compatibility layers for optimal gaming.
What are Non-Steam Launchers?
Non-Steam Launchers are third-party or official game clients that operate independently of Steam’s ecosystem, giving players direct access to games without Valve’s DRM. These include Epic Games Launcher, Ubisoft Connect, EA App, GOG Galaxy, Battle.net, and Rockstar Games Launcher, each catering to specific publisher-based ecosystems. Some launchers, like Playnite and Lutris, unify multiple libraries under a single interface, providing API-based integrations for cloud save synchronization, achievements, and multiplayer services. Unlike Steam, many non-Steam launchers operate with direct EXE execution, bypassing Steam’s overlay, network services, and controller input handling, requiring manual configurations for features like Proton compatibility, Vulkan support, and gamepad remapping.
#1 Compatibility
Heroic Launcher is a high-performance, open-source gaming hub that seamlessly integrates Epic Games and GOG libraries across Linux, macOS, Windows, and Steam Deck. Unlike many official launchers that restrict platform support, Heroic leverages Wine, Proton, DXVK, and Lutris to run Windows-exclusive games on Linux and macOS without requiring a native client. Other Non-Steam Launchers, however, are often publisher-restricted and tied to proprietary ecosystems, limiting their flexibility across multiple platforms.
Heroic Launcher – Technical Compatibility
✅ Epic Games & GOG Support – Full integration with Epic’s API and GOG’s API for direct downloads.
✅ Linux, macOS, Windows, and Steam Deck – Works across major operating systems, with optimized performance for Steam Deck’s Arch Linux-based SteamOS.
✅ Wine & Proton Support – Uses Wine, Proton, DXVK, and VKD3D to run Windows-exclusive games on Linux/macOS.
✅ Lutris Compatibility – Heroic Launcher can work alongside Lutris, allowing additional tweaks and compatibility adjustments.
✅ Native and Custom Game Paths – Allows custom installation directories, external storage support, and folder management.
Other Non-Steam Launchers – Platform Limitations
❌ Restricted Game Ecosystem – Only works for specific publishers (e.g., Ubisoft Connect only runs Ubisoft games).
❌ Windows-Exclusive Launchers – Battle.net, EA App, and Rockstar Games Launcher do not offer native Linux/macOS support.
❌ DRM and Online Restrictions – Many launchers enforce online checks and DRM (e.g., Ubisoft Connect requires an internet connection to validate games).
❌ Limited Customization – Most official launchers do not allow Proton/Wine integration, restricting compatibility for Linux users.
Comparison Analysis:
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
Other Non-Steam Launchers |
Supported Platforms |
Linux, macOS, Windows, Steam Deck |
Mostly Windows, limited macOS support |
Game Library |
Epic Games, GOG |
Limited to publisher-specific games |
Wine/Proton Support |
✅ Yes (via DXVK, VKD3D) |
❌ No (except workarounds via Lutris) |
Native Linux Support |
✅ Full |
❌ Minimal (some games via Proton) |
Offline Play |
✅ Yes (GOG games fully DRM-free) |
❌ Limited (Ubisoft/EA require online validation) |
Custom Game Paths |
✅ Yes |
❌ Limited (fixed installation paths) |
Steam Deck Optimized |
✅ Full compatibility |
❌ Limited or requires manual setup |

Key Takeaways from the Analysis
- Heroic Launcher dominates in cross-platform support, especially for Linux, macOS, and Steam Deck users.
- Other launchers are heavily Windows-dependent, with only GOG Galaxy providing partial macOS support.
- Heroic is the best choice for Linux gamers, as most publisher launchers do not natively support non-Windows environments.
- Steam Deck users benefit significantly from Heroic Launcher, as it works with Proton and Wine natively without requiring additional setup.
#2 Feature Comparison
Heroic Launcher is not just another alternative; it's a game launcher built for flexibility, performance, and control. Unlike official launchers that lock users into a restricted environment, Heroic gives full power over game installations, configurations, and optimizations. Let’s break down some of the most unique and deep technical differences between Heroic and other Non-Steam launchers.
1. Game Importing & Library Sync
One of Heroic’s most useful features is the ability to import already installed games from different locations. Instead of re-downloading a game, Heroic can detect existing files and link them instantly.
- Heroic Launcher:
✅ Automatic Game Detection – Scans for existing Epic and GOG installations and imports them.
✅ External Drive Support – Move and run games from USB, SSDs, or network drives without breaking the installation.
- Other Non-Steam Launchers:
❌ Limited File Recognition – Most launchers require reinstallation if game files are moved while some like Ubisoft Connect does not require a full reinstallation if game files are moved. However, it does require manual verification to recognize the new location.
❌ Fixed Install Paths – Official launchers don’t let users change the installation directory freely.
2. Proton/Wine Customization for Compatibility
Heroic stands out because it allows custom Wine and Proton settings per game, making Windows-exclusive games work on Linux/macOS.
- Heroic Launcher:
✅ Full Wine/Proton Tweaks – Users can choose different version and customize Wine/Proton settings per game for better compatibility.
✅ Custom Tweaks – Adjust DXVK, VKD3D, and FSR settings to fine-tune graphics and performance.
- Other Non-Steam Launchers:
❌ Minimal Wine/Proton Support – Ubisoft, EA, and Battle.net do not natively support Wine/Proton tweaks.
❌ Windows-Only Focus – Most launchers do not support Linux/macOS gaming.
3. FPS, Performance & Hardware Optimization
Unlike standard launchers, Heroic gives users the ability to fine-tune game performance for better stability and efficiency.
- Heroic Launcher:
✅ FPS Limits & Performance Optimization – Allows frame rate capping, async shaders, and Vulkan enhancements.
✅ Shader Pre-Caching – Uses DXVK State Cache to prevent stuttering in games.
- ✅ Custom Launch Arguments – Supports command-line arguments, compatibility flags, and shader caching settings.
- Other Non-Steam Launchers:
❌ No FPS Control – Most launchers rely on in-game settings only.
❌ No Shader Pre-Caching – Causes frequent stuttering during gameplay.
- ❌ Limited Custom Launch Options – Most official launchers do not allow modifying launch arguments.
4. Remote Play & Cloud Gaming Compatibility
Heroic supports remote play and streaming, making it possible to stream games from a powerful PC to a weaker device.
- Heroic Launcher:
✅ Works with Steam Remote Play & Moonlight – Enables game streaming across different devices.
✅ Runs on Steam Deck – Optimized for Steam Deck controls and interface.
- Other Non-Steam Launchers:
❌ No Built-in Remote Play – Requires third-party solutions for streaming.
❌ Limited Device Support – Most launchers do not run on Steam Deck or handheld PCs.
5. Gamepad & Controller Customization
Heroic has deep controller integration, making it a perfect choice for Steam Deck and controller users.
Heroic Launcher:
✅ Works Well with Steam Deck Controllers – Heroic natively supports Steam Deck and controller mapping.
✅ Custom Mapping Options – Supports DS4Windows, Xpadneo, and SDL2-based drivers.
✅ Third-Party Controller Support – Compatible with DualShock, Xbox, and generic gamepads through Steam Input.
✅ Custom Gamepad Configurations – Users can customize button mappings using Steam Input or external tools.
Other Non-Steam Launchers:
❌ Limited Controller Options – Some launchers lack proper controller support.
❌ No Steam Deck Optimization – Requires extra setup for proper controller recognition.
❌ Third-Party Controller Support is Inconsistent – Some launchers do not recognize non-Xbox controllers.
❌ No Built-in Gamepad Mapping – Unlike Heroic, official launchers do not provide controller remapping.
6. UI customization
Heroic Launcher:
✅ UI Customization Available – Supports themes, layout changes, and font customization.
✅ Built-in Layout Themes – Allows users to change UI colors, themes, and menu styles.
Other Non-Steam Launchers:
✅ Some UI Customization Available – GOG Galaxy offers basic themes and layout customization.
❌ Minimal Layout Customization – Many official launchers do not allow theme customization or UI tweaks.

#3 Resource Usage & Performance
Heroic Launcher is a lightweight, efficient game launcher designed for minimal resource usage. Unlike official launchers, which often run background services, Heroic only operates when needed, ensuring it does not consume excess CPU or RAM. Meanwhile, Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and Battle.net keep background processes running even when no games are in use, which can slow down system performance.
Heroic Launcher: Minimal Resource Consumption
✅ Lightweight & Fast – Uses a low-memory, low-CPU design, ensuring smooth performance.
✅ No Background Processes – Unlike official launchers, Heroic closes completely when not in use.
✅ Optimized for Low-End Systems – Uses Electron-based UI, consuming minimal system resources.
✅ No Forced Game Updates or Syncs – Runs only when the user actively launches a game.
✅ Best for Linux & Steam Deck Users – Designed to maximize battery life and reduce power drain.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Heavy System Load
❌ Background Services Running Constantly – Ubisoft, EA, and Battle.net keep processes active, even when idle.
❌ High RAM & CPU Consumption – Official launchers sync game libraries, check for updates, and run DRM validation, using more system resources.
❌ GOG Galaxy is Lighter, But Still Runs in the Background – Even in lightweight mode, GOG Galaxy maintains active background services.
❌ Impacts Gaming Performance – Background services use system memory and CPU cycles, which can reduce in-game FPS and responsiveness.
Comparison Analysis: Which Uses Fewer Resources?
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
Other Non-Steam Launchers |
Lightweight Design |
✅ Fully optimized for minimal system impact |
❌ Some launchers are bulky and require constant updates |
Background Services |
✅ No background processes when not in use |
❌ Runs in background, consuming system resources |
RAM Usage |
✅ Low (~50MB at most) |
❌ High (~400MB even when idle) |
CPU Load |
✅ Minimal (~1% CPU usage) |
❌ Can use up to 10% CPU due to DRM and background checks |
In-Game FPS Impact |
✅ No impact (closes when game is running) |
❌ Can reduce FPS by 10-15% due to resource competition |
Power Consumption |
✅ Low (~5W draw, 0W when closed) |
❌ High (~15W even when idle, affecting battery life) |

The graph visually compares Heroic Launcher and other launchers based on lightweight design, background service usage, RAM impact, CPU load, and idle consumption.
Heroic outperforms other launchers by not running in the background and minimizing resource drain, making it a better choice for low-end PCs, Linux systems, and Steam Deck users.
How Background Services Impact Gaming Performance
Background services from official launchers (Ubisoft Connect, EA App, Battle.net) continuously run even when games are not being played, leading to higher CPU and RAM usage. This negatively impacts gaming performance, especially on lower-end systems or battery-powered devices like Steam Deck.
Technical Breakdown: Why Background Processes Reduce Performance
1. CPU Usage Impact
- Heroic Launcher: 1% idle CPU usage (closes completely when not in use).
- Other Launchers: Up to 10% CPU usage at idle due to background sync, update checks, and DRM validation.
- Effect on Games: Higher CPU load = lower FPS in CPU-intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.
2. RAM Consumption
- Heroic Launcher: Uses only ~50MB RAM when running.
- Other Launchers: Can use up to 400MB RAM even when minimized.
- Effect on Games: Games require free RAM for texture streaming and AI processing—background processes take away valuable memory.
3. FPS Drops Due to Background Activity
- Heroic Launcher: No FPS impact (since it doesn’t run in the background).
- Other Launchers: Background services can drop FPS by 10-15% due to resource competition.
- Example: In games like Call of Duty Warzone, Ubisoft Connect or EA App running in the background can cause stuttering.
4. Power Consumption (Affects Battery Life on Steam Deck & Laptops)
- Heroic Launcher: Minimal power draw (~5W) when running, 0W when closed.
- Other Launchers: Up to 15W power draw at idle, reducing battery life significantly on laptops and handheld devices.
- Example: On Steam Deck, having Ubisoft Connect running in the background reduces battery life by over an hour.

Graph: Impact of Background Services on Gaming Performance
This graph visualizes the CPU, RAM, FPS, and power consumption differences between Heroic Launcher and other launchers.
Key Takeaways:
- Heroic is far more efficient in system resource usage.
- Official launchers drain system resources even when idle, causing lower FPS, reduced RAM availability, and higher CPU load.
- For best gaming performance, avoid launchers that require background DRM services.
#4 Security & Privacy
When it comes to security and privacy, Heroic Launcher stands out as a fully open-source, DRM-free, and non-intrusive gaming platform. Unlike official launchers (Ubisoft Connect, EA App, Battle.net), which actively collect user data, enforce DRM restrictions, and run background tracking services, Heroic is completely transparent and does not monitor user activity.
Heroic Launcher: Privacy & Security Advantages
✅ 100% Open-Source – The entire codebase is publicly available, ensuring no hidden tracking or data collection.
✅ No DRM or Online Restrictions – Heroic does not enforce Digital Rights Management (DRM), allowing full offline play.
✅ No User Data Collection – Unlike official launchers, Heroic does not track or log player behavior.
✅ No Background Surveillance – Heroic runs only when needed and does not perform hidden telemetry.
✅ Safe for Linux Users – Since Heroic is open-source, it is frequently audited by the community for security risks.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Privacy & Security Concerns
❌ User Data Collection – Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and Battle.net track user behavior, purchases, and playtime.
❌ Always-Online DRM – Many games require constant online verification, even for single-player modes.
❌ Telemetry & Background Tracking – Some launchers run processes in the background to collect system and gameplay data.
❌ Limited Transparency – Since these launchers are closed-source, users cannot verify what data is being collected.
❌ Account Lock-In & Region Restrictions – Some launchers restrict access to certain games based on geolocation and account history.
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
Other Non-Steam Launchers |
Open-Source |
✅ Fully Open-Source (Transparent & Community Audited) |
❌ Closed-Source (Proprietary, Cannot Verify Code) |
User Tracking |
✅ No Tracking or Telemetry |
❌ Tracks Playtime, Purchases, and System Data |
DRM-Free |
✅ GOG Games are Fully DRM-Free |
❌ DRM Verification Required for Most Games |
Data Collection |
✅ No Data Collection or User Monitoring |
❌ Sends User Data to Remote Servers for Analytics |
Background Processes |
✅ No Background Services When Not in Use |
❌ Runs Background Services Even When Idle |
Privacy Risks |
✅ Zero Privacy Risks (No Account Lock-In or Data Tracking) |
❌ High Privacy Risks (Requires Online Verification & Tracks Usage) |
#5 Updates & Patching
Heroic Launcher gives full control over game updates, allowing users to manually update or disable automatic updates for Epic and GOG games. This prevents unexpected updates from breaking mods or changing game mechanics. In contrast, official game launchers such as Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and Battle.net enforce mandatory auto-updates, which cannot be disabled in most cases.
Heroic Launcher: Full Update Control & Manual Patching
✅ Manual Update Control – Users can choose when to update games rather than being forced into new patches.
✅ Disable Auto-Updates – Prevents games from updating without user approval, preserving game stability and mod compatibility.
✅ Selective Updates – Allows partial updates instead of full downloads, saving bandwidth.
✅ Epic & GOG Compatibility – Supports manual patching for both Epic Games and GOG titles.
✅ No Forced Patches – Unlike official launchers, Heroic does not force updates or remove rollback options.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Auto-Updates & Limited Control
❌ Forced Updates – Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and Battle.net automatically update games without user control.
❌ No Way to Disable Auto-Updates – Some launchers do not allow disabling automatic updates, making modding difficult.
❌ Rollback Support is Limited – Only GOG Galaxy provides version rollback options, but not for all games.
❌ Patch Verification is Mandatory – Many official launchers require internet verification after updates.
✅ GOG Galaxy Offers Version Rollbacks – One of the few launchers that allow reverting to older game versions.
#6 Multiplayer & Online Services
Heroic Launcher focuses on game access and performance, but it lacks built-in social and multiplayer features. It relies on Epic Online Services (EOS) to support multiplayer modes in Epic Games, but does not have a built-in friends list or voice chat. In contrast, official game launchers (Ubisoft Connect, EA App, Battle.net) offer integrated multiplayer features, matchmaking, and always-online authentication, but enforce DRM and limit flexibility.
Heroic Launcher: Multiplayer & Online Services Features
✅ Works with Epic Online Services (EOS) – Enables multiplayer for Epic Games titles.
✅ Cross-Platform Multiplayer Supported – If a game supports crossplay, Heroic can connect with players across different platforms.
✅ No Always-Online Requirement – Games that support offline play remain fully playable without internet verification.
✅ Supports Third-Party Services – Can work with Steam Proton, Wine, and third-party gaming networks for online multiplayer.
❌ No Built-In Friends List – Does not have an integrated social system for chat, messaging, or friend invites.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Integrated Multiplayer but Heavy DRM
✅ Built-In Social Features – Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and Battle.net include friends lists, messaging, and voice chat.
✅ Official Matchmaking Support – Games on these launchers have dedicated servers and multiplayer support.
✅ Cross-Platform Multiplayer Available – Some games allow crossplay with consoles and PC users.
❌ Always-Online Requirement – Some games require a constant internet connection, even for single-player modes (e.g., Diablo 4 on Battle.net).
❌ Limited Third-Party Compatibility – Multiplayer is restricted to their own ecosystems (e.g., Ubisoft games only work with Ubisoft Connect accounts).

The graph visually compares Heroic Launcher and other launchers based on social features, matchmaking, crossplay, DRM requirements, and third-party support.
It’s clear that Heroic is better for users who want to avoid DRM and online restrictions, while official launchers provide a more structured multiplayer experience but with less flexibility.
#7 Future Development & Community Support
Heroic Launcher is a community-driven project with active open-source development, meaning frequent updates, strong user support, and long-term stability. In contrast, official game launchers depend on corporate decisions, where services can be discontinued, updates can be delayed, and community involvement is minimal.
Heroic Launcher: A Future-Proof Gaming Platform
✅ Fully Open-Source – Community-led development means continuous improvements and no corporate shutdowns.
✅ Frequent Updates – Heroic receives regular feature updates, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements.
✅ Strong Community Support – Developers actively engage with users via GitHub, Discord, and forums.
✅ Full Modding Support – No restrictions on game modifications, tweaks, or patches.
✅ Long-Term Stability – Unlike corporate launchers, Heroic is unlikely to be abandoned or replaced.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Limited by Corporate Decisions
❌ Dependent on Publishers – If a publisher shuts down a launcher, users lose access to games (e.g., EA retiring Origin for EA App).
❌ Limited Community Input – Unlike Heroic, official launchers rarely accept user feedback or feature requests.
❌ Inconsistent Updates – Some launchers receive frequent updates (GOG Galaxy), while others lack long-term support.
❌ Modding is Restricted – Ubisoft and EA actively block modifications in many of their games.
✅ Some Launchers Have Good Support – GOG Galaxy has strong customer support and rollback options.

The graph shows Heroic Launcher leading in all aspects, while official launchers are limited by corporate decisions, modding restrictions, and inconsistent updates.
Heroic’s community-driven model ensures continuous updates, whereas corporate launchers can be discontinued at any time (as seen with EA Origin and Rockstar Social Club).
#8 Cross-Platform Game Library Integration
Heroic Launcher is focused on Epic Games and GOG support, offering a simple and DRM-free experience. However, it does not support automatic game tracking from Steam, Ubisoft, EA, or Xbox, which limits its usefulness for players with multiple libraries. In contrast, GOG Galaxy and Playnite provide full multi-platform game syncing, allowing users to track and launch games from multiple services in one interface.
Heroic Launcher: Focused but Limited Integration
✅ Supports Epic Games & GOG – Full API-based integration for downloading, updating, and launching games.
✅ Manual Custom Library Management – Users can add non-supported games manually, but it lacks full automation.
✅ Cross-Platform Play is Possible – Epic Online Services allow multiplayer games to sync across different devices.
❌ No Native Steam, Ubisoft, or EA Tracking – Cannot automatically import games from other launchers.
❌ No Multi-Launcher Syncing – Unlike Playnite or GOG Galaxy, Heroic does not pull all game libraries into one place.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Full Multi-Platform Sync
✅ GOG Galaxy Supports Multi-Platform Syncing – Tracks games from Steam, Epic, Ubisoft, Xbox, and PlayStation.
✅ Playnite Offers Full Library Integration – Users can sync, organize, and launch games from multiple platforms.
❌ Some Launchers Have Restrictions – GOG Galaxy can track and organize games from multiple platforms (Steam, Epic, Ubisoft, EA, etc.), but it does NOT replace the official launchers. You still need to have each platform’s launcher installed to actually play the games.
❌ Xbox & PlayStation Syncing is Read-Only – You can track your console game library, but cannot launch console games from a PC.

This graph visually compares Heroic Launcher and other launchers in terms of multi-platform support, auto-tracking, and library management.
While Heroic is great for Epic & GOG users, it falls behind in game tracking compared to GOG Galaxy and Playnite.
#9 Game Modding & Third-Party Integrations
Heroic Launcher supports modding but lacks built-in mod management tools. It allows users to manually modify game files, apply Proton/Wine tweaks, and install custom patches, making it a great option for Linux users who want control over their games. However, other non-Steam launchers, like GOG Galaxy and Epic Games, provide direct mod support for select titles, making the process easier for Windows users.
Heroic Launcher: Manual Modding with Maximum Freedom
✅ Full Manual Modding Support – Users can edit game files, replace assets, and apply community mods.
✅ Supports DRM-Free Modding – Works seamlessly with GOG games that do not have DRM restrictions.
✅ Third-Party Tool Compatibility – Can be used with mod managers like Vortex and Mod Organizer 2, but requires manual setup.
❌ No Built-in Mod Manager – Unlike Steam Workshop or Nexus Mod Manager, Heroic does not offer a native mod integration system.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Mixed Modding Support
✅ GOG Galaxy Allows Modding for DRM-Free Games – Users can modify GOG titles without restriction, making it an ideal launcher for modding single-player games.
✅ Epic Games Supports Select Modded Games – Games like ARK: Survival Evolved and SnowRunner have built-in mod support via Epic’s official mod system.
✅ Bethesda Launcher (Retired) Had Mod Support – Previously offered modding for Fallout and Skyrim, but has since been discontinued.
❌ Ubisoft & EA Restrict Modding – Many Ubisoft and EA titles have anti-cheat systems and DRM that prevent modding.
Comparison Analysis: Which Launcher is Better for Modding?
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
Other Non-Steam Launchers |
Manual Modding Support |
✅ Full manual modding (file edits, patches, and tweaks) |
✅ Some launchers allow manual modding, but with restrictions |
Built-in Mod Manager |
❌ No native mod manager |
✅ Some launchers (Epic Mods, Bethesda Launcher) provide built-in modding support |
Wine/Proton Tweaks |
✅ Full Proton/Wine support for mod compatibility |
❌ No support for Linux modding tools |
DRM-Free Modding |
✅ Supports GOG DRM-free games for unrestricted modding |
✅ Limited (Only GOG allows full DRM-free modding) |
Third-Party Integration |
✅ Works with external mod managers (Vortex, Mod Organizer 2, Lutris) |
❌ Limited or blocked by anti-cheat and DRM restrictions |

This graph visually compares Heroic Launcher and other non-Steam launchers in terms of modding support, third-party integrations, and Linux compatibility.
Heroic Launcher is best for manual modding and Wine/Proton tweaks, but official launchers provide easier mod installation for select games.
#10 Achievements & Game Progress Tracking
Heroic Launcher does not have a built-in achievement system, but it syncs Epic Games achievements. However, it lacks universal tracking like Playnite and does not support achievements from other platforms. In contrast, official launchers (Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and GOG Galaxy) provide full achievement tracking and progress sync.
Heroic Launcher: Basic Progress Tracking with Epic Sync
✅ Syncs Epic Games Achievements – Heroic retrieves Epic achievements but does not display them in a unified system.
✅ Cloud Save Sync for Epic & GOG – Automatically syncs game saves if Epic or GOG cloud save support is enabled.
✅ Manual Game Tracking Possible – Users can manually log progress or use external tools like Playnite.
❌ No Built-in Achievements – Heroic does not have its own achievement system.
❌ No Cross-Platform Progress Sync – Cannot track achievements across different launchers.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Full Achievement & Progress Tracking
✅ Native Achievement Systems – Epic, Ubisoft, and EA have built-in achievement tracking.
✅ GOG Galaxy Supports Cross-Platform Achievements – GOG allows tracking achievements from Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Epic Games.
✅ Full Game Progress Sync – Many launchers sync saves and settings across multiple devices.
❌ Some Games Require Online Verification – Ubisoft and EA require online sign-ins to sync progress.
❌ Limited External Tracking – Some games do not support manual tracking outside their own launcher
Comparison Analysis
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
Other Non-Steam Launchers |
Native Achievement Support |
❌ No built-in achievements |
✅ Yes, integrated with each platform (Epic, Ubisoft, EA) |
Epic Achievements Sync |
✅ Syncs Epic Games achievements |
✅ Fully supported in Epic Games Launcher |
Universal Game Tracking |
❌ No universal tracking system |
✅ GOG Galaxy & Playnite provide unified tracking |
Cross-Platform Achievements |
❌ Not supported |
✅ GOG Galaxy allows tracking across Steam, Xbox, PlayStation |
Progress Sync Across Devices |
✅ Cloud saves for Epic & GOG |
✅ Full sync for most platforms |
#11 Game Installation & Management
Heroic Launcher provides greater flexibility in game installation and management, allowing users to choose install directories, move game files freely, and pause/resume downloads. In contrast, official launchers (like EA App and Ubisoft Connect) often enforce strict installation paths and require verification when moving games.
Heroic Launcher: Full Control Over Game Installation
✅ Choose Installation Directories – Users can install games on any drive or folder without restrictions.
✅ Move Games Between Drives – Games can be relocated to another drive without reinstallation.
✅ Pause & Resume Downloads – Download manager supports pausing and resuming game downloads.
✅ No Strict Path Restrictions – Unlike official launchers, Heroic allows full control over where games are stored.
❌ Limited Automatic Game Detection – Heroic does not automatically detect games installed by other launchers.
Other Non-Steam Launchers: Limited Installation Flexibility
❌ Strict Installation Paths – Ubisoft Connect and EA App force games to install in default locations.
❌ Moving Games Requires Verification – Some launchers force a file verification check after moving games (e.g., Battle.net).
✅ Pause & Resume Available for Some – Some launchers allow pausing downloads, but not all support it properly.
✅ Game Detection from Other Launchers – GOG Galaxy and Playnite can detect existing game installations across different platforms.
Comparison Analysis: Which Provides Better Game Installation Management?
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
Other Non-Steam Launchers |
Custom Install Directories |
✅ Users can install games on any drive or folder |
❌ Limited, many launchers force default paths |
Game File Moving |
✅ Move games freely between drives |
❌ Requires file verification after moving (e.g., Battle.net) |
Download Pause/Resume |
✅ Yes, supports pausing and resuming downloads |
✅ Some launchers support it, others don’t |
Strict Installation Paths |
❌ No restrictions, full path control |
✅ Many launchers force specific install locations |
Verification Required for Moves |
❌ No forced verification |
✅ Required for most official launchers |
Final words: Which One to Choose?
The best launcher depends on your gaming needs. Heroic Launcher is ideal for Linux, Steam Deck users, and those who want open-source, DRM-free gaming, while official game launchers provide native Windows support for Ubisoft, EA, and Rockstar titles.
Choose Heroic Launcher If:
✅ You play Epic or GOG games – Heroic fully supports Epic Games Store and GOG libraries.
✅ You want Linux or Steam Deck support – Heroic is natively compatible with Linux and optimized for Steam Deck.
✅ You prefer open-source, DRM-free options – Unlike official launchers, Heroic does not enforce DRM restrictions.
✅ You need Proton/Wine integration – Allows Windows-only games to run on Linux via Proton/Wine.
✅ You want complete customization – Full control over FPS limits, launch arguments, modding, and installation paths.
Choose Other Non-Steam Launchers If:
✅ You need official game support – Ubisoft Connect, EA App, and Battle.net are required for their respective games.
✅ You prefer native Windows compatibility – No need for Proton or Wine workarounds.
✅ You want built-in achievements & cloud saves – Official launchers provide native progress tracking and sync.
✅ You play multiplayer games with friends – Ubisoft, EA, and Rockstar launchers offer integrated multiplayer features.
✅ You want a centralized game library – GOG Galaxy and Playnite provide universal game tracking across platforms.
FAQ
1. What is Heroic Launcher?
Heroic Launcher is an open-source, cross-platform game launcher designed to run Epic Games and GOG games on Linux, Windows, macOS, and Steam Deck.
2. What are Non-Steam Launchers?
Non-Steam launchers are game launchers that operate independently of Steam, such as Ubisoft Connect, EA App, Battle.net, GOG Galaxy, and Epic Games Launcher.
3. Can Heroic Launcher run Steam games?
No, Heroic Launcher does not support Steam games natively, but it can be added to Steam manually for Steam Deck integration.
4. Does Heroic Launcher support Ubisoft, EA, or Battle.net games?
No, Heroic only supports Epic Games and GOG libraries. For Ubisoft, EA, or Battle.net games, official launchers are required.
5. Can I install mods in Heroic Launcher?
Yes, but modding must be done manually. Unlike Steam Workshop or Bethesda Mods, Heroic does not have a built-in mod manager.
6. Does Heroic Launcher support achievements?
Heroic syncs Epic Games achievements, but does not provide universal achievement tracking like GOG Galaxy or Playnite.
7. Is Heroic Launcher good for Steam Deck?
Yes! Heroic Launcher fully supports Steam Deck and works natively on Linux. It allows custom controller mapping through Steam Input.
8. Can I move Heroic-installed games to another drive?
Yes, Heroic allows games to be moved freely between drives without requiring reinstallation.
9. Does Heroic Launcher allow game backup and restoration?
Yes, but users must manually back up game files since Heroic does not have an automated backup feature.
10. Does Heroic Launcher require an internet connection?
Only for Epic Games DRM-protected titles. GOG games can run completely offline without an internet connection.
11. How does Heroic Launcher compare to GOG Galaxy?
Feature |
Heroic Launcher |
GOG Galaxy |
Supported Stores |
Epic Games, GOG |
Steam, Epic, GOG, Xbox, PlayStation |
DRM-Free Support |
✅ Yes (GOG Games) |
✅ Yes (GOG Games) |
Multi-Launcher Sync |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
Game Library Management |
✅ Basic |
✅ Advanced |
Linux & Steam Deck Support |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
12. Is Heroic Launcher free?
Yes, Heroic Launcher is 100% free and open-source.
13. Which one should I choose?
- Choose Heroic Launcher if you need Linux/Steam Deck support, DRM-free games, and Epic/GOG compatibility.
- Choose Other Non-Steam Launchers if you play Ubisoft, EA, or Battle.net games and need full official support.