A Linux preview is available, but the SteamOS package is still undecided
The new Epic Games Launcher entered public preview on 14 October for Windows, macOS and Linux. On Linux, Epic first offered an AppImage, then a .deb package for Debian and Ubuntu. For Steam Deck owners, the distinction matters. Having a Linux client does not mean Epic already offers an officially supported installation on SteamOS.
Speaking to GamingOnLinux, Epic Games communications director Jake Jones named SteamOS, Fedora, CachyOS and Omarchy among the target distributions. Epic is still evaluating packaging formats and plans to make the AppImage available again in November. That date applies to the AppImage file. Epic has given no launch date for Steam Deck, installation method through Valve’s interface or details of an interface tailored to the handheld’s controls.
What the new launcher changes in the library
In the preview, selecting a game opens a page showing its status, activity and launch button together. Epic also highlights faster navigation between store and library. On a device used with a controller, having those controls in one place would be handy. The preview screenshots show the current client, however, rather than an interface designed for the Deck.
Launcher, games and anti-cheat each have their own requirements
The launcher lets you browse your library, download games and start them. A game still needs to run on Linux itself, either directly or through a compatibility layer. Some multiplayer titles add a third requirement: their anti-cheat system.
Epic discusses that separately in its Easy Anti-Cheat Linux v2 documentation. It says Steam Deck does not meet the solution’s technical requirements and that it is in talks with Valve. Plans for an official launcher alone are therefore no basis for announcing that Fortnite will be playable on SteamOS.
“The Steam Deck does not support the required features for our EAC v2 solution” — Epic Online Services.
Anyone who already owns games on Epic will therefore have two things to check: does the official client work on the handheld, and is the particular game they want to play compatible? The answer to the first question could be yes even when the answer to the second is no.
Key takeaways
The good news for Deck owners is that Epic now takes the handheld into account when developing its client. The next concrete step will be a release with installation instructions and explicit support for SteamOS.