Epic tests Linux anti-cheat as it explores future Fortnite support
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Epic is rebuilding its Easy Anti-Cheat software for Linux, a step towards bringing Fortnite to Linux through the Epic Games Launcher. The change addresses concerns about detecting cheating across different Linux system configurations, which have kept the game off the platform.
Epic calls the update EAC Linux v2 and plans to pilot it in Fortnite before offering improvements to other developers. There is no release date, and Epic is investigating SteamOS compatibility. The Steam Deck currently lacks features required by the anti-cheat system, though Epic is discussing possible future support with Valve; Fortnite is not planned for Valve’s Steam store.
- Epic is rebuilding its anti-cheat software for Linux.
- Fortnite will be the first game to test the update.
- There is no release date, and Steam Deck support is uncertain.
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Fortnite is an online game made by Epic Games, which also runs the Epic Games Store and its launcher, an app used to download and update games. Linux is an alternative computer operating system to Windows, and SteamOS is a version of Linux used on Valve’s Steam Deck handheld.
Online games use anti-cheat software to detect and prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage. Making this software work on Linux while meeting security requirements has been a barrier to Fortnite running on the system. Epic’s work could matter to Linux players and other game makers considering support for the platform.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Bringing Fortnite to Linux could give more players access and make the game viable on devices such as the Steam Deck, while testing EAC Linux v2 in a major title could improve anti-cheat support for other developers. Epic’s staged approach allows it to address security concerns before committing to broader availability.
The case against
Fortnite’s anti-cheat needs to protect fair play and player accounts, so Epic has reason to withhold support until Linux systems meet its security requirements. Rebuilding and testing the system could take substantial work, and without a timeline or confirmed SteamOS compatibility, promising support too soon could disappoint players or weaken safeguards.
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Originally published by The Verge as “Epic is bringing Fortnite to Linux”.