Epic Games Launcher is coming to SteamOS

Your PC games library on Steam Deck will expand to include Epic Games Store titles.

Epic Games has confirmed that its Epic Games Launcher will be compatible with SteamOS, Valve's Linux-based operating system. Communications Director Jake Jones stated that the company plans to support a wide range of Linux distributions, including Fedora, SteamOS, Cachy, and Omarchy, with the new launcher, which is currently in preview. Jones also indicated that the AppImage format for distribution will be restored this month, following a transition to Debian/Ubuntu .deb downloads. While the launcher's compatibility is a step forward, it does not guarantee Fortnite will be playable on SteamOS. This is because Fortnite's Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) v2 solution requires features not yet supported by the Steam Deck, although Epic Games is actively discussing this with Valve. The company previously mentioned that the Steam Deck lacked the necessary features for its EAC v2 solution but expressed hope for future support.

The expansion of the Epic Games Launcher to SteamOS represents a significant move towards unifying PC game libraries across different platforms. By supporting Valve's Linux-based operating system, Epic Games is opening the door for a broader audience to access its exclusive titles and third-party games. This could pressure other digital storefronts to consider similar cross-platform compatibility, potentially leading to a more open and accessible PC gaming ecosystem.

However, the crucial hurdle of Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) v2 compatibility for titles like Fortnite remains unaddressed on the Steam Deck. Until Epic Games and Valve resolve this technical challenge, the full potential of this compatibility will not be realized, leaving many popular games inaccessible on the popular handheld device. Future announcements regarding EAC v2 support will be key indicators of the long-term implications for Steam Deck users and the broader landscape of portable PC gaming.