diff --git a/launcher/CMakeLists.txt b/launcher/CMakeLists.txt
index 5246de19d..6204acabd 100644
--- a/launcher/CMakeLists.txt
+++ b/launcher/CMakeLists.txt
@@ -1458,6 +1458,12 @@ if(WIN32 OR (DEFINED Launcher_BUILD_FILELINKER AND Launcher_BUILD_FILELINKER))
     add_executable("${Launcher_Name}_filelink" WIN32 filelink/filelink_main.cpp)
 
     target_sources("${Launcher_Name}_filelink" PRIVATE filelink/filelink.exe.manifest)
+    # HACK: Fix manifest issues with Ninja in release mode (and only release mode) and MSVC
+    # I have no idea why this works or why it's needed. UPDATE THIS IF YOU EDIT THE MANIFEST!!! -@getchoo
+    # Thank you 2018 CMake mailing list thread https://cmake.cmake.narkive.com/LnotZXus/conflicting-msvc-manifests
+    if(MSVC)
+        set_property(TARGET "${Launcher_Name}_filelink" PROPERTY LINK_FLAGS "/MANIFESTUAC:level='requireAdministrator'")
+    endif()
 
     target_link_libraries("${Launcher_Name}_filelink" filelink_logic)