Epic Games Store Confirms Ghostrunner as April 9 Free Game
Epic Games has pulled back the curtain on its giveaway schedule for the month of April, confirming the next title set to join its long-running free games program. Following a period of experimentation with mystery titles and high-profile blockbusters, the storefront is returning to its roots with a focus on immersive indie experiences.
The latest announcement confirms that the Epic Games Store will offer Ghostrunner for free starting April 9. This high-octane, first-person slasher developed by One More Level has maintained a cult following since its release, praised for its demanding difficulty and slick cyberpunk aesthetic. It replaces the current offerings, ensuring that users who act within the one-week window can claim the title permanently for their digital libraries.
High Stakes and Cyberpunk Aesthetics
Ghostrunner is not a game for the faint of heart. It operates on a “one-hit-one-kill” mechanic that applies to both the player and the enemies. This creates a rhythmic, almost dance-like gameplay loop where trial and error lead to a perfect run through neon-drenched environments. While the sequel, Ghostrunner 2, has already expanded on these ideas, the original remains a definitive example of tight, responsive platforming and combat.
For Epic, the decision to lead the second week of April with such a well-regarded title serves a clear purpose. The store continues to battle Steam for market share, and providing “prestige” indie titles is a proven method of maintaining a consistent daily active user count. Ghostrunner represents the kind of game that many players have on their wishlists but may have hesitated to purchase due to its reputation for extreme difficulty.
The Evolution of the Free Games Strategy
The timing of this reveal is as important as the game itself. Since the store’s inception, the free games program has been its primary engine for growth. However, in 2026, the strategy appears to be shifting. Rather than just offering any available software, Epic seems to be curating selections that tie into broader gaming trends—in this case, the enduring popularity of the cyberpunk genre and the rise of high-skill “speedrunning” games.
And while some critics argue that the novelty of free games is wearing thin, the data suggests otherwise. These weekly updates still drive massive traffic to the Epic launcher. By securing Ghostrunner, Epic is ensuring that the mid-April period doesn’t see the usual slump in engagement. It’s a tactical move designed to bridge the gap before the larger “Mega Sales” typically expected in the early summer months.
Hardware Performance and Accessibility
From a technical standpoint, Ghostrunner is an excellent showcase for PC hardware. It was one of the early adopters of ray-tracing technology and DLSS, making it a visual treat for those with modern GPUs. For players on more modest setups or handhelds like the Steam Deck—which can run the Epic Games Store via third-party launchers—the game is well-optimized, offering high frames per second which are essential for its twitch-reflex gameplay.
But the move isn’t just about the hardware. It’s about ecosystem loyalty. By the time the April 9 window closes, Epic will have added another substantial title to its users’ collections, making it harder for those players to ignore the platform when the next major exclusive release arrives. It is a long-term play, and Ghostrunner is the latest piece on the board.
What to Expect After April 9
Leaks and rumors regarding the games following Ghostrunner have already begun to circulate on social media and gaming forums. While Epic officially announces titles one week at a time, industry patterns suggest that the latter half of April may feature a multiplayer-focused title to balance out the single-player intensity of Ghostrunner. Expect an announcement regarding the April 16 giveaway at the same time Ghostrunner goes live.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to claim Ghostrunner?
The game will be available for free on the Epic Games Store starting April 9 and will remain claimable until April 16. Once you add it to your library during this window, it is yours to keep forever.
Will my PC be able to run it?
Ghostrunner is surprisingly scalable. While it looks best with a high-end card to take advantage of ray tracing, its minimum requirements are quite accessible. Most mid-range gaming PCs from the last five years should have no trouble maintaining the high frame rates the gameplay requires.
Are there any DLCs included in the free version?
Typically, the Epic Games Store free versions are the “Standard Edition” of the game. While the base game is complete, additional cosmetic packs or the “Project_Hel” expansion are usually sold separately, though Epic often discounts these during the week the base game is free.