Is there a way to stop Steam from installing the Redist files?

[possom2009]

Every time I try to play a game, Steam wants to install files from the redist foders. Thing is I already have them installed.

[Falro the Great]

I suppose you mean you ran the redists from the game's folder before starting it? Unfortunately, I don't think there's a way to skip it.

[Silicon Vampire]

You should not skip them as they can contain specific versions of software for the game you are installing.

[Falro the Great]

Originally posted by Silicon Vampire:

You should not skip them as they can contain specific versions of software for the game you are installing.

I may be wrong, but I believe the OP has already run the game-specific redists from the game's folder. I know sometimes I like to browse through a game's files before starting it. Maybe they just run them before starting the game, out of habit possibly? Just my thoughts.

[Silicon Vampire]

But generally after the first install, all they really do is verify the files needed are still in place...

[Falro the Great]

I think we're not quite on the same page, and admittedly I don't know how this would work in reality, but here's what I'm getting:

-OP buys game, then installs it.
-Before starting it for the first time - when the redists would normally be run - OP navigates to the install folder manually and runs the redists there.
-Then OP runs the game for the first time, and, I assume, Steam reinstalls the redists, like it normally does.

I hope that clears it up. Could be I'm ever the optimist and OP could just be meaning what you said, but I like to give the benefit of the doubt, even though I know I probably shouldn't.

Or maybe I've got it all wrong, and Steam doesn't install them if they already are installed prior to the first launch. One way to find out! Will edit with my findings.

EDIT:
Well, just tested. I downloaded and installed a game, then before starting it up ran the specific redist files manually. Pressed play, and whaddya know, not even a peep about them, just straight up launched the game. I was hopeful, but I guess your assumption was right, Silicon.