Epic Games Launcher Gains SteamOS Compatibility in Preview Phase

Image: Epic Games Launcher is coming to SteamOS · Source

Epic Games has confirmed that its Launcher now supports SteamOS and several other Linux distributions, although Fortnite’s functionality on SteamOS remains uncertain due to anti-cheat system challenges.

Epic Games has made significant strides toward enhancing support for Linux-based platforms by confirming compatibility of its Epic Games Launcher with Valve’s SteamOS. Initially announced in October, when the launcher was only in preview and SteamOS was not explicitly supported, recent communication from Epic Games Communications Director Jake Jones has clarified that the company is testing and evaluating packaging formats to expand Linux distribution support. These include Fedora, SteamOS, Cachy, Omarchy, and others.

Jones announced plans to restore the previously used AppImage packaging format within the month while also providing Debian/Ubuntu-compatible .deb downloads. This shows Epic’s commitment to broadening access across various Linux environments.

However, the confirmation of launcher compatibility does not guarantee the full functionality of all Epic Games titles on SteamOS. Fortnite’s Linux availability remains hampered by the status of Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) Linux version 2 support. Epic Games previously noted that the Steam Deck currently lacks the necessary features required by EAC v2, although the company is actively engaging with Valve in hopes of supporting it in the future.

This development is a noteworthy step toward integrating the Epic Games ecosystem more deeply into the Linux gaming community, particularly for users of SteamOS and potentially Steam Deck devices. Until EAC v2 challenges are resolved, some game compatibility issues are likely to persist, but Epic’s efforts signal ongoing progress in this area.