Epic Games announces Linux support for new launcher and Fortnite via EAC rebuild

Epic Games has revealed plans to bring its upcoming redesigned launcher to several Linux distributions. While the new launcher is currently in a preview stage, the company is actively testing packaging formats to ensure broad compatibility across the ecosystem.

Crucially, the company confirmed that Fortnite is slated for a Linux release. This move requires a significant technical undertaking: rebuilding Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) and collaborating with Linux distribution maintainers to meet specific security requirements.

Launcher development and anti-cheat integration

• Distribution Support: The preview version currently offers a .deb package, but Epic Games plans to support Fedora, SteamOS, Cachy, and Omarchy, with plans to restore AppImage support this month.
• Anti-Cheat Engineering: Bringing Fortnite to Linux necessitates a rebuild of the Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) subsystem to function within the Linux kernel and user-space security models.
• Security Collaboration: Epic Games is working directly with Linux distribution maintainers to address the specific security requirements necessary for running their anti-cheat software.
• Performance Goals: The new launcher is being developed to be more responsive and faster than the existing legacy version.

Why it matters

Why it matters: This development would significantly expand the AAA gaming library available on Linux, particularly for Steam Deck users. Successful integration of EAC with Linux security standards would set a precedent for how major publishers handle anti-cheat software on open platforms.