If you’re wondering how to do an epic games download, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re trying to install the Epic Games Launcher, download your first game, or troubleshoot common download issues, this guide covers everything — from beginner steps to pro-level tips.
What Is the Epic Games Store & Launcher?
Epic Games runs a digital storefront called the Epic Games Store, which you can access via their desktop application, the Epic Games Launcher. This platform lets you browse, purchase, download, and run games like Fortnite, indie titles, and blockbusters.
When you perform an epic games download, you’re typically doing two things:
- Downloading the Launcher itself so you can manage your library.
- Using the Launcher to download and install individual games you own — or free games you claim. Epic Games Store
Why Download Epic Games Launcher First
- Central hub: The launcher is more than just a downloader. It’s your library, updates tool, and game launcher in one.
- Automatic updates: Your games stay up to date via the launcher.
- Free games: Epic gives away free games every week, and you need the launcher to claim them.
- Account management: It connects to your Epic account so you can access your games, link with friends, and more.
How to Do an Epic Games Download: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to download the Epic Games Launcher and then use it to install games:
1. Download the Launcher
- Go to the Epic Games Store website. Epic Games+1
- Click the Download button (usually found in the top-right corner). Epic Games+1
- Choose your platform (Windows or macOS). The installer should start automatically. Epic Games
- If the download doesn’t start, use the manual download option from the same page. Epic Games
- Once downloaded, run the installer and follow instructions. Epic Games
Note: On Windows, you might get a
.msifile. Softpedia lists a recent version of the Epic Games Launcher installer. Softpedia
2. Create or Log In to Your Epic Account
- Open the launcher after installing.
- You’ll be prompted to log in or create a new Epic Games account. You can sign in with Google, Facebook, console accounts, or a regular email. Epic Games Store
- Completing this step is critical for accessing and managing your game library.
3. Download and Install a Game from Epic
Once your launcher is installed and you’re logged in:
- Open the Epic Games Launcher.
- Go to the Library tab. Epic Games
- Find the game you want to download or install.
- Click the game, pick an installation directory, then hit Install. Epic Games
- Wait for the download to finish; when installed, click Play from the launcher.
Epic Games Download on Mobile (Android & iOS)
Epic has extended its store to mobile devices, though the process on Android involves sideloading:
- For Android: Visit the Epic website on your phone and download the APK. Then, enable installation from unknown sources and install. The Indian Express+1
- For iOS (European Union only): Due to regulatory changes, Epic’s store can be installed on iPhones in the EU. Wikipedia+1
- Note: Because of Apple’s policies, the store isn’t natively on the U.S. iOS App Store. Lifewire
Common Issues with Epic Games Download & How to Fix Them
Even for a solid platform, many users report problems while downloading. Here are common issues and their fixes:
Download Speed Problems / Stalling
- Several users report download speed crashes or stalling when trying to download or update large games like Fortnite. > “My download speed … gets stuck at 0 Mbps after a few MBs.”
- Some fixes:
- Pause and retry the download.
- Use a wired connection or faster Wi-Fi.
- Make sure your drive has enough free space.
Launcher Setup/Installation Errors
- Error: “Setup Wizard ended prematurely” — this can happen if your install path has an invalid character. Microsoft Learn
- What to try:
- Change the install folder path to something simple, like
C:\Epic Games. - Run the installer as Administrator.
- Re-download the installer in case the first one got corrupted.
- Change the install folder path to something simple, like
Write / Read Issues During Download
- Some users say the launcher’s download process writes and re-writes files oddly, especially on HDDs: “For Fortnite… your game is on a hard drive … slower reading/writing speeds …”
- Suggestions:
- Install big games on an SSD if possible for faster file operations.
- Close other heavy disk-use programs during download.
Limited Optimizations & High Resource Usage
- Several in the community argue that the Epic launcher is less optimized than rivals: “The download speed is atrocious … my entire computer lags … when updating.”
- Workarounds:
- Limit background apps/service usage.
- Make sure your PC is updated (OS, network drivers).
Advanced Tips for Epic Games Download
- Preloading: As of late 2025, Epic Games Store supports preloading for select titles, letting you download up to 5 days before launch. PC Gamer
- Choose Install Location: When you begin a game install, pick the right drive. If your C drive is low on space, install onto a different partition.
- Keep Launcher Updated: The launcher itself receives updates. Always allow it to update so you have the latest features and bug fixes.
- Claim Free Games: Every week, Epic gives away at least one free game. Use the launcher to grab them, and they’ll stay in your library permanently. Epic Games Store
Security & Account Safety
- Use a strong, unique password for your Epic account.
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) — it’s a powerful way to avoid unauthorized access.
- Be careful when downloading APKs (on Android). Only get them from the official Epic site to avoid risks.
Refund Policy for Epic Games Store
If you’re worried about buying and then regretting a game purchase, here’s what you should know:
- You have 14 days to request a refund if you’ve played less than 2 hours, and provided the game is marked refundable. Epic Games Store
- To initiate a refund: go to your Transactions page on Epic’s site and select the order you want to refund.
- Refunds usually return to the original payment method, but timing can vary.
Why Gamers Prefer Epic Games Download
- Free Games: The weekly free game drops are a big draw.
- Simple UI: The launcher is clean and easy to navigate for most users.
- Developer Support: Epic supports indie and major developers, so the catalog is strong.
- Preload Feature: For big releases, preloading helps you start playing immediately when a game officially launches.
- Cross-Platform Account: Your Epic account works across PC, console, and (in some regions) mobile.
When Epic Games Download Isn’t Ideal
- If you have a slow or unstable internet connection, extremely large game downloads may be painful.
- On very old PCs or slow HDDs, the launcher might feel sluggish.
- If you’re on iOS outside the EU, you can’t use the Epic Games Store like Android or PC users because of Apple restrictions. Wikipedia
- If you prefer other platforms (like Steam, GOG), you may not like Epic’s UI or library model.
Doing an epic games download — whether you’re pulling down the launcher, installing a game, or sideloading on Android — is a pretty straightforward process once you know the steps. But like any digital storefront, you may run into hiccups like slow downloads or install issues. With the right setup, a good network, and a little patience, you can get your games up and running smoothly.
