[2020] The older version of Paradox Launcher v2 cannot be removed

I don't know why you can't remove the launcher, and why the new install even cares about that. neither are normal in my experience. Do you have some sort of extra security software or settings in Windows that might be getting in the way?

You could use the free Revo Uninstaller utility to try and remove it.  

Prussiabrother said: It let me find the Launcher-installer-windows.msi but my computer didn't have this file

That file is in the Steam/CK3/launcher/ folder.

Prussiabrother said: I really want to play Crusader Kings III right now！

Note that you can run ck3.exe directly from Windows Explorer, which bypasses the launcher.  

I'm sorry I missed this thread, I don't know how that happened.

The best way to remove apps that won't uninstall is the free utility Revo Uninstaller.


Once it's gone, Please try this:

- exit the Steam app entirely

Delete the following folders if still present:

- C:/users//AppData/Local/Programs/Paradox Interactive/
- C:/users//AppData/Local/Paradox Interactive/
- C:/users//AppData/Roaming/Paradox Interactive/launcher-v2/
To see the AppData folder you'll need to enable View Hidden Items in File Explorer.

- run steam.exe as the Windows Admin user

- run the game from the PLAY button in Steam

IF that doesn't help, in this folder are some .log files:
C:/users//AppData/Local/Paradox Interactive/launcher-v2/
Please attach them here.  

Prussiabrother said: I've just tried everything you've mentioned, and my app no longer has the Pparadox Launcher.

I'm at the end of my rope, here's the Log please help me.

You should update for the next version: skip removing the old launcher or a smarter search.

First run the Windows 10 updater app and apply everything it finds to fix.

Then go here:

Latest supported Visual C++ Redistributable downloads

This article lists the download links for the latest versions of Visual C++ Redistributable packages. support.microsoft.com And run the x86 and x64 installers there.

And finally run this .NET repair tool:

Microsoft .NET Framework Repair Tool is available

Describes the .NET Framework Repair Tool and how to obtain it. support.microsoft.com
Then reboot. Then do the clean reinstall of the launcher as per post #12 again. That really should do it!  

Prussiabrother said: I did as you and he asked, but still asked me to delete the old launcher.

Perhaps I'm misunderstanding something here. You are specifically getting an error removing the old launcher, even though it has been removed by Revo?

A new launcher 2020.17 came ou tlast night. Hopefully by tomorrow I will be able to direct you to its installer, which may get past your issue.