GTA V error: ERR_NO_LAUNCHER "Please run Grand Theft Auto V using PlayGTAV.exe"

Fixable on your PC

ERR_NO_LAUNCHER

The game was started the wrong way, or it couldn't find the Rockstar Games Launcher it needs. Usually a shortcut pointing at the wrong file, or a missing launcher.

Why it happens

GTA V has to start through PlayGTAV.exe, which checks in with the Rockstar Games Launcher first. If you run GTA5.exe directly, use an old desktop shortcut, or the launcher is missing or quarantined by antivirus, the game refuses to start.

How to fix it

Start the game from Steam, Epic, or the Rockstar Games Launcher, not from a desktop shortcut.
If you use a shortcut, right-click it > Properties and check the Target. It should point to PlayGTAV.exe, not GTA5.exe.
Check that the Rockstar Games Launcher is installed and opens on its own. If it doesn't, follow the 'Rockstar Games Launcher failed to initialize' fix.
Check your antivirus quarantine for PlayGTAV.exe or launcher files. Restore them and add the GTA V folder to your exclusions.
Verify the game files in Steam, Epic, or the Rockstar Games Launcher to restore anything missing.

Still broken?

Do a clean reinstall of the Rockstar Games Launcher (see the related fix below), then verify game files again.

Related fixes

GTA V · Red Dead Redemption 2

"Rockstar Games Launcher failed to initialize" (GTA V / RDR2)

The Rockstar Games Launcher itself is broken, so no Rockstar game can start. A clean reinstall of the launcher fixes this almost every time.

Fixable on your PC GTA V

GTA V closes on startup with no error message (Enhanced & Legacy)

You hit Play, the launcher opens, and then the game just disappears. Usually corrupt game files, broken saved settings, the wrong graphics card on laptops, or an overlay.