Fortnite Is Coming to Linux, but Epic Must Rebuild Its Anti-Cheat First
Epic Games announced today that Fortnite, its biggest game, is officially coming to Linux. Millions of Linux gamers will cheer the news. They will no longer have to wrestle with translation layers and compatibility problems on their own.
The game is not available yet. Epic is first rebuilding Easy Anti-Cheat for Linux. Once the security work is complete, the company plans to distribute Fortnite through its new Epic Games Launcher.
Why Anti-Cheat Held Fortnite Back
Anti-cheat compatibility has long been a barrier. Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) has supported Linux for years. However, developers had to switch that support on. Epic says its existing Linux implementation cannot offer protection comparable to Windows.
As a result, Fortnite players have been left in the dark. Many have relied on limited success with the Proton translation layer.
How EAC Linux v2 Closes the Gap
The new version, EAC Linux v2, aims to close the security gap between Windows and Linux. It uses built-in Linux security features. It does not rely on a dedicated anti-cheat kernel driver.
Epic says eBPF checks will help protect game memory and detect cheats. Meanwhile, a systemd service will run only when a protected game is active.
System Requirements
The requirements are strict. Players will need a signed kernel and signed modules. They will also need Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, and measured boot. Kernel lockdown integrity mode must be on, and kexec must be disabled. An active BPF Linux Security Module is required too. Systems that are not handhelds will also need IOMMU support.
Distribution Support and Custom Setups
Epic is working with Linux distribution maintainers to establish compatible configurations. The initial list of recognized signing keys includes Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and openSUSE. It also includes Universal Blue, which maintains Bazzite.
Users who run custom kernels or unsigned third-party modules may need to adjust their setups.
A Wider Future for Linux Gaming
Fortnite will be the first game to test EAC Linux v2 in a live environment. Epic plans to offer the updated anti-cheat to other developers after validation. In turn, Linux could become a more practical platform for competitive multiplayer games.
Steam Deck Owners Must Wait
Steam Deck owners will have to wait. Epic says the handheld currently lacks the features that EAC Linux v2 requires. Still, talks with Valve are ongoing.
Epic has not announced a release date for Fortnite on Linux. The company also does not plan to bring the game to Steam.
