Epic Games Launcher plans SteamOS support, but Fortnite remains a separate question

Epic Games plans to extend its redesigned launcher to SteamOS and a wider range of Linux distributions. A statement given to GamingOnLinux on November 6 names SteamOS alongside Fedora, Cachy and Omarchy. This is a support roadmap, not confirmation that a finished SteamOS release is available.

The current launcher website lists Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or later and Debian 12 or later as officially supported, with Fedora support coming. Running the software on another distribution does not necessarily mean that configuration has been tested and supported by Epic. Packaging work is also continuing, including plans discussed for bringing back an AppImage option.

A native launcher does not make every game native

The new launcher preview was announced on October 14 for Windows, macOS and Linux. Epic describes a faster startup experience, an updated library and revised download management. These are the company’s claims rather than results of an independent benchmark conducted for this article. The preview should not be confused with a feature-complete final release.

A Linux-native storefront and a Linux-compatible game are different things. Windows titles may still need a compatibility layer. The game, its online services and its anti-cheat software must each work in the target environment. Wider launcher support therefore cannot guarantee that every game in a user’s library will run.

Fortnite and Steam Deck still have an important limitation

Epic is developing Easy Anti-Cheat v2 for Linux and plans to use Fortnite first. The approach relies on existing Linux security capabilities rather than a custom kernel module. Its requirements cover secure boot and system integrity, among other features.

Epic’s own FAQ says Steam Deck does not currently support the features required for this EAC v2 solution. The company is talking to Valve, but that is not a release date or a promise of completed support. A SteamOS launcher announcement must not be presented as confirmation that Fortnite is ready to run natively on Steam Deck.

If delivered, official SteamOS support could provide a more direct way to access an Epic library. For now, buyers should still check compatibility game by game. The confirmed development is Epic’s intention to broaden Linux support; the remaining Fortnite and Steam Deck questions are technical work in progress. Sources are linked above.

Sources: GamingOnLinux, Epic Games Launcher, Epic Games, Epic Online Services.