Epic Brings Its Native Launcher to Steam Deck, but Easy Anti-Cheat Still Keeps Fortnite Locked Out
Key Takeaways
- Epic Games confirmed official native launcher support for SteamOS, Fedora, CachyOS, and Omarchy.
- AppImage packaging returns in November to simplify direct installation across Linux distributions.
- Fortnite native support on Steam Deck remains blocked because Easy Anti-Cheat Linux v2 requires unsupported system features.
A Native Experience for Steam Deck Users
Epic Games officially confirmed the expansion of its redesigned launcher to native Linux distributions. The company specifically targets SteamOS, the operating system powering Valve’s Steam Deck, to eliminate the need for third-party tools like Heroic Games Launcher.
Jake Jones, Communications Director at Epic Games, stated to GamingOnLinux that the development team is actively testing packaging formats. Epic Games plans to restore AppImage downloads this November while evaluating future distribution methods.
The native client promises improved performance and resource management. Internal tests conducted by Epic Games demonstrated a startup time of 5.47 seconds for the new application architecture.
Epic Games has confirmed that its new launcher will support SteamOS, along with a variety of other Linux distributions: https://t.co/L1gvEAK5vc
— SteamDeckHQ (@SteamDeckHQ) November 8, 2026
Will Fortnite Run on SteamOS Natively?
Native launcher support on SteamOS does not guarantee Fortnite compatibility on the Steam Deck. Epic Games uses Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) Linux v2, which currently requires system features that the Steam Deck hardware does not support. Valve and Epic Games are actively discussing potential solutions.
The community highly anticipates a resolution for the popular battle royale title. Epic Games acknowledged the hardware limitations but maintains an open dialogue with Valve and Linux distribution maintainers to bridge the technical gap.
Also, learn more about the news games releasing this week!
The Road to Full Linux Distribution Support
The Epic Games Launcher Preview launched on October 14 across Windows, macOS, and Linux. The initial Linux release utilized an AppImage before transitioning to a .deb package optimized for Debian and Ubuntu environments.
Developers continue to evaluate the most effective packaging formats for a fragmented operating system ecosystem. Industry observers suggest a potential move to Flatpak could streamline installation on the Steam Deck via the Discover application.
Epic Games is committing to broader distribution support despite the initial reluctance for Linux support and the continuous beef pr CEO Tim Sweeney for Gabe Newell’s platform Steam. The final release format remains under evaluation as the software engineers refine the launcher experience for Linux users.
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A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !
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