The rebuilt Epic Games Launcher will officially support SteamOS, the Linux-based operating system powering Valve’s popular Steam Deck handheld.
This development follows Epic’s August announcement of plans for a native Linux client. A preview of the launcher, available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, launched on October 14. This official backing for SteamOS aims to simplify gaming for users who have previously relied on third-party tools or workarounds.
Official Epic Games Launcher SteamOS Access Enhances Linux Gaming
The confirmation from Epic’s Communications Director Jake Jones to GamingOnLinux outlines broad support beyond just Valve’s ecosystem. Epic plans to extend compatibility to several Linux distributions, including Fedora, Cachy, and Omarchy. The new launcher is currently available as a .deb package, supporting Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or newer and Debian 12 or newer, with Fedora support expected soon.
For Steam Deck users, this means moving beyond unofficial methods like Lutris or the Heroic Games Launcher. While those tools have filled a crucial gap, an official client typically offers better integration, stability, and direct access to Epic’s features. It should significantly improve the user experience for those wanting to play their Epic library on the go.
Epic also plans to restore AppImage downloads for the launcher later this month. This broadens accessibility, ensuring users across various Linux setups can easily install the client. The shift underscores a growing recognition of the Linux gaming community’s importance.
Technical Hurdles and Fortnite’s Future
Despite the positive news, challenges remain, particularly for Epic’s flagship title, Fortnite. Full support for the popular battle royale game on SteamOS is still pending. This is primarily due to the requirements of Epic’s updated anti-cheat system, Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) Linux v2.
EAC v2 demands specific system features, including signed kernels, signed kernel modules, and secure boot with attestation. Epic stated in October that the Steam Deck does not currently support these necessary features. Discussions between Epic and Valve are ongoing, aiming to bridge this technical gap and enable Fortnite on the handheld.
For Windows-only games from the Epic library, users will still need a compatibility layer like Wine or Proton. The new Linux client automatically downloads a GE-Proton compatibility runtime on its first use for these titles. This ensures a smoother setup process for a vast majority of Epic’s catalog, despite the underlying operating system differences.
Epic and Valve: Shifting Dynamics in PC Gaming
This move marks an interesting shift in the competitive landscape between two major PC gaming storefronts. Epic Games has historically challenged Valve’s Steam dominance through exclusive titles and developer-friendly revenue splits. Bringing its launcher to SteamOS represents a pragmatic step to reach a wider audience on a competitor’s hardware platform.
Valve’s Steam Deck, alongside its Steam Machine line, runs SteamOS 3, which debuted on the Steam Machine in June at a starting price of $1,049. By officially supporting this environment, Epic acknowledges the growing user base invested in Valve’s Linux-based gaming ecosystem. This could foster greater interoperability and choice for gamers, rather than forcing them into one ecosystem.
The decision allows Epic to tap into a dedicated segment of PC gamers who prefer portable, Linux-based hardware. It illustrates how companies adapt to an evolving market, prioritizing user access and platform presence. This contrasts with earlier, more walled-garden approaches seen in the industry.
Performance and Future Interface Possibilities
Epic claims its new launcher delivers improved performance. Internal testing showed a startup time of 5.47 seconds for the updated launcher, compared to 10.07 seconds for Steam, though these figures were obtained under specific, differing test conditions. Users can expect better navigation and lower resource usage from the rebuilt application.
Looking ahead, Epic may release an official Flatpak version of the launcher. Distributing via Flathub would significantly simplify installation on SteamOS through its desktop mode and the Discover store, making it even more user-friendly. Such an approach could streamline software delivery across various Linux distributions.
A key question remains regarding the user interface on handheld devices. It is unclear if Epic will offer a dedicated handheld-friendly interface for SteamOS or if users will navigate a standard desktop launcher. An optimised interface would further enhance the seamless gaming experience on the Steam Deck and similar devices.
This expansion of the Epic Games Launcher signifies a broader commitment to cross-platform compatibility and user choice within the PC gaming sphere. It provides a clearer path for gamers to enjoy their full libraries across a diverse range of hardware and operating systems, pushing the boundaries of what dedicated technology can achieve in personal computing.
The move also highlights the increasing sophistication required for modern software deployment, echoing the complexity seen in large-scale industrial automation projects. As gaming platforms evolve, the infrastructure supporting them must keep pace. This dedication to expanding access ultimately benefits the end-user by providing more options and a smoother experience.
While the full implications for broader platform competition are still unfolding, Epic’s decision to embrace SteamOS marks a significant step. It underscores the value of open ecosystems, where developers engage with different platforms rather than limiting their reach. This collaborative approach can drive innovation, similar to advancements in specialised manufacturing sectors.
