Epic Games to Launch Fortnite on Linux via New Anti-Cheat System

Key points

• Epic Games announced it is rebuilding its Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) system for Linux, dubbed EAC Linux v2, to eventually support Fortnite on the platform.
• The new anti-cheat system will use a systemd service and eBPF kernel programs instead of traditional kernel modules, requiring UEFI Secure Boot and signed kernels.
• Epic is working with major Linux distribution maintainers, including Canonical, Fedora, and Debian, to ensure security requirements are met before launch.
• No specific timeline has been provided for the Linux release of Fortnite, but Epic plans to pilot the new anti-cheat system in the game first.
• The Steam Deck and SteamOS currently do not meet the security requirements for EAC Linux v2, though Epic is in discussions with Valve to address this in the future.

Background

Epic Games has been expanding its presence on Linux, recently launching a preview of its new AI-assisted games launcher that supports the platform. This move follows a broader strategic pivot by CEO Tim Sweeney toward AI-driven development, which has sparked industry debate. The new anti-cheat system aims to address previous concerns about cheating on Linux, which had prevented Fortnite from being available on the platform since 2022.

How outlets are covering it

The Verge and OC3D emphasize the technical overhaul of the anti-cheat system and the collaboration with Linux distribution maintainers. Phoronix highlights the specific technical changes, such as the use of systemd and eBPF, and the requirement for UEFI Secure Boot. Steam Deck HQ focuses on the potential impact on the Steam Deck, noting that while the game is coming to Linux, the Steam Deck is not yet supported due to security requirements. All sources agree that no release date has been set, but they differ in their emphasis on the technical details versus the broader implications for the Linux gaming community.

Why it matters

The move to bring Fortnite to Linux could significantly expand the game's player base and demonstrate Epic's commitment to cross-platform support. The new anti-cheat system may also set a precedent for other games to adopt similar security measures on Linux, potentially improving the overall gaming experience for Linux users. However, the lack of a release date and the current incompatibility with the Steam Deck may limit the immediate impact.

What to watch

Epic Games will continue to work with Linux distribution maintainers to ensure the security requirements for EAC Linux v2 are met. The company plans to pilot the new anti-cheat system in Fortnite before making it available to other developers. Additionally, Epic is in discussions with Valve to address the incompatibility of the Steam Deck with the new anti-cheat system.