Can You Use Steam Workshop on Epic Games Rocket League? The Definitive Guide
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The short answer is no, you cannot directly use the Steam Workshop content within the Epic Games version of Rocket League. This is because the Steam Workshop is a platform exclusive to Steam. However, there are ways to enjoy community-created maps and mods on the Epic Games version, although the process is a bit more involved. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Landscape: Steam vs. Epic Games
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental difference between the Steam and Epic Games ecosystems. Steam is a mature platform with a robust Workshop system, allowing users to easily create, share, and download content for supported games. Epic Games, while growing rapidly, has a different approach. While they do allow mods, the Epic Games Launcher handles mod installation differently.
Rocket League, originally available on Steam, was acquired by Epic Games and eventually transitioned to a free-to-play model exclusive to the Epic Games Store. This means that while legacy Steam users can still play their Steam version, new players can only download Rocket League through the Epic Games Launcher.
The Reality: Accessing Community Content on Epic Games Rocket League
Since direct Steam Workshop integration is not possible with the Epic Games version of Rocket League, players need to rely on alternative methods to access custom maps and mods. The primary tool for this is BakkesMod.
BakkesMod is a third-party software that allows you to inject plugins into the game, enabling you to use custom maps, training tools, and cosmetic enhancements. While it’s not the Steam Workshop, it essentially provides similar functionality, albeit through a different installation process.
How to Install and Use Workshop Maps via BakkesMod
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play Workshop maps on the Epic Games version of Rocket League using BakkesMod:
- Download and Install BakkesMod: Visit the official BakkesMod website and download the latest version. Follow the installation instructions carefully.
- Run Rocket League: After installing BakkesMod, launch Rocket League through the Epic Games Launcher. BakkesMod should automatically inject itself into the game. You’ll know it’s working if you see the BakkesMod menu when you press F2.
- Obtain Custom Maps: This is where things differ from the Steam Workshop. You’ll need to find custom maps from other sources. Websites and communities dedicated to Rocket League mods often host these maps. Common examples include Lethamyr’s custom maps.
- Locate the “CookedPCConsole” Folder: This is where you’ll place the custom map files. The directory path is typically:
DocumentsMy GamesRocket LeagueTAGameCookedPCConsole. - Place the Map Files: Copy the downloaded custom map files (usually
.upkfiles) into the CookedPCConsole folder. - Load the Map in BakkesMod: In Rocket League, press F2 to open the BakkesMod menu. Navigate to the “File” tab. Click on “Open Map” and select the
.upkfile of the map you want to play.
Important Considerations When Using BakkesMod
- Legality and Safety: BakkesMod is generally considered safe to use and Psyonix (the developer of Rocket League) has stated that they don’t ban users for using it as long as it doesn’t provide a competitive advantage in online play.
- Updates: BakkesMod requires updates after Rocket League patches. Keep an eye on the BakkesMod website for the latest version.
- Compatibility: Ensure the custom maps you download are compatible with the current version of Rocket League.
- Anticheat Software: Though BakkesMod is generally safe to use, some anticheat software on other games might flag it. Remember to disable BakkesMod before playing other online games where it might be mistaken for cheating software.
Exploring Alternatives: Other Modding Communities
While BakkesMod is the most popular method, there are other smaller communities that offer custom maps and mods. Exploring these communities can lead you to unique and interesting content beyond the well-known Workshop maps.
Why the Shift to Epic Games?
The decision to remove Rocket League from Steam was a business move by Epic Games after acquiring Psyonix. Exclusivity is a common strategy used by Epic Games to attract users to their platform. While it might be frustrating for some, it’s a reality of the gaming industry.
The Future of Modding in Rocket League
It remains to be seen if Epic Games will ever implement a Workshop-like system directly into the Epic Games Launcher for Rocket League. Until then, BakkesMod remains the best option for accessing community-created content on the Epic Games version of Rocket League.
This complex ecosystem highlights the need for better understanding of games, learning and technology. Resources such as the Games Learning Society can help improve the current knowledge. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is BakkesMod Safe to Use?
Yes, BakkesMod is generally considered safe to use. Psyonix has stated they do not ban players for using BakkesMod as long as it doesn’t provide a competitive advantage in online matches.
2. Can I get banned for using BakkesMod?
It’s highly unlikely. However, be cautious and ensure you’re only using BakkesMod for its intended purposes (training, custom maps, cosmetic enhancements).
3. How do I update BakkesMod?
BakkesMod usually prompts you to update when a new version is available. You can also manually download the latest version from the official BakkesMod website.
4. Where can I find custom maps for Rocket League on Epic Games?
Look for Rocket League modding communities online. Forums, Discord servers, and websites dedicated to Rocket League mods are good places to start. Lethamyr’s maps are also very popular and widely available.
5. What is the CookedPCConsole folder?
The CookedPCConsole folder is where Rocket League stores game files, including maps. It’s located in your “My Games” directory under the Rocket League folder.
6. Can I use the same custom maps I used on Steam?
Yes, if you have custom maps from your Steam version of Rocket League, you can copy them to the CookedPCConsole folder in your Epic Games version.
7. Does BakkesMod work on consoles?
No, BakkesMod is only available for the PC version of Rocket League.
8. What other features does BakkesMod offer?
Besides custom maps, BakkesMod offers a wide range of features, including training tools, cosmetic customization options, and in-game statistics.
9. How do I uninstall BakkesMod?
You can uninstall BakkesMod through the Windows Control Panel or by running the uninstaller included in the BakkesMod installation directory.
10. Is Rocket League still available on Steam?
If you purchased Rocket League on Steam before it went free-to-play, you can still play that version. However, new players can only download Rocket League through the Epic Games Store.
11. Why did Rocket League move to Epic Games?
Epic Games acquired Psyonix, the developer of Rocket League, and decided to make the game exclusive to the Epic Games Store.
12. Can I transfer my items from Steam to Epic Games?
Yes, you can link your Steam account to your Epic Games account and transfer your inventory, rank, and progress.
13. Does Rocket League support cross-platform play?
Yes, Rocket League supports cross-platform play, allowing you to play with friends on other platforms.
14. Are there any alternatives to BakkesMod for accessing custom maps?
BakkesMod is the most popular and well-supported option. However, there might be other niche tools or mods available, but their reliability and features may vary.
15. Will Epic Games ever add Steam Workshop support to Rocket League?
It’s unlikely that Epic Games will add direct Steam Workshop support, as that would be counter to their business strategy of promoting their own platform. However, they may develop their own modding system in the future.