Epic Games for Linux confirmed – and what it could mean for Steam Deck and Steam Machine

Until now, Linux users have had to rely on unofficial solutions such as the Heroic Games Launcher or Lutris to access the Epic Games Store. That is apparently set to change: Epic is working on a native Linux version of its store. This was confirmed during an open Q&A session on the community Discord. When asked whether there were any new plans for a Linux version of the launcher, an Epic employee responded simply with “Soon.” However, he also pointed out that the Linux client will not be included in the upcoming preview version of the redesigned Epic Games Store.

More than just a Linux launcher?

As the Epic employee went on to explain, the company needs to “do more than simply have a build of the launcher that can run natively on Linux.” Exactly what that means remains unclear. One obvious possibility, however, is that Epic is also working on a solution for game compatibility. After all, a native store alone does not ensure that games developed primarily for Windows will also run on Linux.

Another indication of broader Linux plans comes from an Epic Games job listing. The company is looking for a Security Engineer who will help advance the Linux capabilities of its anti-cheat technology. However, the listing does not reveal whether this work is related to the upcoming store client or could even pave the way for Fortnite on Linux. It also remains unclear when the native Linux client will be released. Aside from the rather vague “Soon,” Epic has yet to announce a release date.

What does this mean for Steam Deck and Steam Machine?

Since both the Steam Deck and the Steam Machine run Valve's Linux-based SteamOS operating system, the upcoming client could potentially be relevant to both devices. However, Epic has not yet announced a version specifically optimized for SteamOS or explicit support for either Valve device.

While nothing has been confirmed so far, Reddit users are hoping this could bring native Epic integration to Gaming Mode on the Steam Deck and Steam Machine. Cumbersome workarounds involving Heroic or Lutris, which require switching to Desktop Mode at least for the initial setup, would no longer be necessary. Some users are also hoping for Proton or Wine integration that would allow games developed for Windows to run on SteamOS. One particularly common request is the ability to play Fortnite on Valve hardware. At present, the Battle Royale shooter cannot be run locally on SteamOS and can only be played via cloud gaming or after installing Windows.