Epic Games Launcher für Linux Image © PCMasters.deEpic Games Launcher für Linux (Image © PCMasters.de)

The strategy for the launcher extends beyond SteamOS. Epic Games intends to support a wide range of Linux distributions to expand accessibility. Specifically, in addition to SteamOS, the company is targeting Fedora, CachyOS, and Omarchy.

Currently, official Linux support is limited to Debian and Ubuntu. The software has primarily been distributed as a DEB package to date; however, a preview version of a redesigned launcher—featuring faster startup times and lower resource consumption—has been available for Windows, macOS, and Linux since mid-October 2026. The company also plans to reintroduce the distribution-independent AppImage format in November 2026 and is currently evaluating additional package formats for future use.

Functionality

For Steam Deck owners, official support eliminates the need for intermediary software. Previously, users had to install third-party applications such as Lutris or the Heroic Games Launcher to manage and launch titles from the Epic Games Store.

However, the availability of the launcher does not guarantee that all titles in the library will be playable. Many games in the store were developed exclusively for Windows. These titles still require compatibility layers such as Proton or Wine to run on a Linux-based system. The actual performance and stability of these games depend on their specific technical requirements. It also remains unclear how the launcher will integrate with the Steam Deck’s gaming mode, which is specifically optimized for controller-based gameplay.

Issues with Fortnite

Despite the launch of the launcher, “Fortnite” will not be immediately available on the Steam Deck. The biggest obstacle is the “Easy Anti-Cheat” system. The current security architecture, known as EAC Linux v2, requires specific system features that the Steam Deck does not currently support. To resolve this, Epic Games is in talks with Valve to find a technical solution. At this time, there is no timeline for when these anti-cheat adjustments will be completed.