Epic Games Launched Linux Launcher Preview

The company has initiated a preview for its launcher on Linux alongside plans to update its anti-cheat software.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in eSports

Epic Games Launched Linux Launcher Preview

Live Poll

Would you switch to Linux for gaming if more major titles were officially supported?

Epic Games released its launcher in preview on Linux today. The company is currently rebuilding its Easy Anti-Cheat service to ensure it functions securely across diverse Linux kernel configurations.

Why it matters

Epic previously hesitated to support Linux due to concerns over combating cheating at scale. The update aims to resolve these security hurdles to pave the way for future software releases.

Epic Games is developing EAC Linux v2 to improve security across different distributions. While the launcher is now available in preview, the current Steam Deck hardware does not yet support the specific features of this new anti-cheat version.

The players

Epic Games

This is a video game developer and publisher known for creating the Unreal Engine and the battle royale title Fortnite.

Tim Sweeney

He is the founder and CEO of Epic Games who has previously voiced strategic concerns regarding software security.

The details

The developer is collaborating with distribution maintainers to meet necessary security requirements for the new anti-cheat architecture. Although the Epic Games Launcher is now accessible on Linux, the company has confirmed it does not plan to bring Fortnite to the Steam store.

February 2022: Tim Sweeney expressed concerns regarding cheating on Linux.
October 14, 2026: The Epic Games Launcher was released in preview on Linux.

Season Trajectory

The development of a new version of Easy Anti-Cheat represents a major shift in how gaming companies approach security on open-source platforms. By standardizing security requirements with distribution maintainers, Epic is moving toward a more integrated ecosystem for cross-platform play.

Linux users can now access the Epic Games Launcher in preview to prepare for future library availability. While Fortnite is expected to arrive on the platform, players should note that current Steam Deck hardware lacks support for the upcoming EAC v2 features.

The takeaway

The move signifies a significant commitment to the Linux gaming community, though full parity with Windows features will take time to implement. Users should watch for updates regarding hardware compatibility as the software moves out of its preview phase.