Is MelonLoader Compatible with Different Launchers (Steam, Epic Games, GOG)?

Miller Dean
December 10, 2025

MelonLoader is a universal mod loader for Unity games on Windows, allowing players to install mods and plugins safely. A common question among gamers is whether MelonLoader works with games installed through different launchers, such as Steam, Epic Games Store, or GOG. This guide provides an in-depth explanation of compatibility, installation considerations, and best practices.

What MelonLoader Is

MelonLoader is not a game or a mod itself. It is a loader that injects code into Unity games to enable mod functionality. Key points:

Supports Unity games that use Il2Cpp and Mono scripting backends.
Works only on Windows PC.
Requires .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0 or higher and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.
Installs mods as .dll files in a Mods folder created in the game directory.

Compatibility with Different Launchers

1. Steam

MelonLoader is fully compatible with Steam games. Steam games are installed locally and the automated installer can detect the Steam installation folder automatically.

Steps to ensure compatibility:

Verify the game installation in Steam.
Use the automated installer and point it to the Steam game folder containing the .exe file.
Run the installer as administrator.

Steam may sometimes use Steam Cloud, which can conflict with mod files. Disabling Steam Cloud temporarily for the game is recommended if issues arise.

2. Epic Games Store

MelonLoader also works with games installed through the Epic Games Store. Epic installs games to a user-defined directory, often outside the default Program Files location.

Installation considerations:

Manually browse to the folder containing the game executable (.exe) during installation.
Some Epic games have file permissions restrictions; running the installer as administrator is critical.
Ensure that antivirus software does not block MelonLoader files.

Epic Games titles may not show up automatically in the installer’s detected list, so manual folder selection is common.

3. GOG (Good Old Games)

MelonLoader works with GOG-installed games as well. GOG installs games DRM-free, meaning there are no built-in protections that interfere with mod loading.

Notes for GOG users:

The game folder is fully accessible, which simplifies installation.
Use the automated installer and point it to the folder containing the main .exe file.
GOG Galaxy may have cloud saves enabled; consider backing up save files before installing mods.

General Installation Notes for Any Launcher

Administrator Permissions
Always run the MelonLoader installer as administrator to ensure all files are copied and configured properly.
Correct Game Folder
The installer requires the path to the executable (.exe). For Steam and Epic, this is usually in steamapps/common/GameName or Epic Games/GameName. For GOG, it is the folder chosen during installation.
Dependencies
Ensure .NET Desktop Runtime 6.0+ and Visual C++ Redistributable are installed before running the installer. Missing dependencies will prevent MelonLoader from initializing.
Mod Folder Creation
The installer automatically creates Mods and Plugins folders in the game directory. Place compatible .dll mods inside Mods.
Compatibility with Game Updates
Updates from Steam, Epic, or GOG can sometimes overwrite MelonLoader or mod files. After major updates, verify the installation and update your mods as needed.

Common Issues Across Launchers

Issue	Cause	Fix
Game crashes on startup	Outdated or incompatible mod	Remove mods and relaunch
Installer cannot detect the game	Custom folder or restricted access	Manually select the `.exe` path
Console window does not appear	Missing dependencies	Install .NET Desktop Runtime and Visual C++ Redistributable
Steam Cloud conflicts	Sync overwrites mods	Temporarily disable Steam Cloud
Antivirus removes loader	Security flag	Add game folder to antivirus exceptions

Conclusion

MelonLoader is compatible with games installed from Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG. The key to success is pointing the automated installer to the correct game folder, running the installer as administrator, and ensuring required dependencies are installed. All three launchers are supported, though Steam and Epic users may need to temporarily manage cloud save or file permissions. GOG users generally have fewer obstacles due to DRM-free installations.

By following these guidelines, you can safely use MelonLoader with your favorite Unity games regardless of the launcher.

Official download link: https://melonloader.pro/download-melonloader/

Steam game: https://store.steampowered.com/

Epic Games Store: https://store.epicgames.com/en-US

GOG Game: https://www.gog.com/en/