Steam users often encounter Steamworks Common Redistributables in their library, but many are unsure of what they do or whether they can be removed. These files ensure the games are appropriately run by providing the necessary software components.

This guide explains what Steamworks Common Redistributables are, why they are needed, and how to hide them from your Steam library if desired.

What Are Steamworks Common Redistributables?

Steamworks Common Redistributables are essential software packages that games need to function correctly.

They include:

• DirectX – Helps render graphics for games.
• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables – Provides necessary runtime libraries.
• .NET Framework – Required by certain games and applications.
• OpenAL – Supports audio processing.
• PhysX – Used for physics-based game mechanics.

These components ensure that games have the required dependencies installed, preventing crashes or errors when launching games on Steam.

Why Are Steamworks Common Redistributables Installed?

Steam automatically checks if the required redistributables are installed on your system when a game is launched for the first time. If not, it installs them to prevent compatibility issues. Many games may fail to start without these redistributables or experience performance issues. Steam consolidates these standard files to avoid duplication and to save storage space.

Can You Delete Steamworks Common Redistributables?

While removing these files to free up space may be tempting, deleting Steamworks Common Redistributables is not recommended. These files are shared across multiple games, and removing them may cause games to malfunction or fail to launch. Since Steam manages these dependencies automatically, leaving them in place is best.

How to Hide Steamworks Common Redistributables in Steam Library

Although these redistributables are necessary, some users prefer not to see them in their Steam library. Fortunately, you can hide them without affecting functionality.

Steps to Hide Steamworks Common Redistributables:

1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
2. Locate Steamworks Common Redistributables in the game list.
3. Right-click on it and select Manage.
4. Click Hide this game to remove it from the visible list.

Hiding the redistributables will keep them from cluttering your library while allowing Steam to manage them as needed.

What Happens If You Remove These Files?

Certain games may not launch appropriately if you manually delete Steamworks Common Redistributables. Steam might attempt to reinstall them when you start a game that requires these dependencies. If Steam does not automatically reinstall them, you may need to verify the game files or reinstall Steam to restore missing components.

How to Restore Hidden Steamworks Common Redistributables

If you previously hid Steamworks Common Redistributables and want to make them visible again, follow these steps:

1. Open Steam and click on View in the top-left menu.
2. Select Hidden Games from the dropdown list.
3. Locate Steamworks Common Redistributables.
4. Right-click and choose Remove from Hidden to restore it to your library.

Conclusion

Steamworks Common Redistributables are essential for running games on Steam, ensuring that required software dependencies are available for smooth performance. While these files take up some space, removing them can cause problems with game launches. However, if you want a cleaner library view, you can safely hide them without affecting gameplay. Let Steam manage these files automatically to avoid any technical issues.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might need assistance managing their Steam library.