Epic Overhauls Easy Anti-Cheat to Bring Fortnite to Linux
The story in short
Epic Games says it is revamping Easy Anti-Cheat to finally bring Fortnite to Linux, marking a major step for multiplayer gaming on the platform.
Epic Games announced on October 14, 2026 that it is rebuilding its Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) system to enable Fortnite on Linux.
What we know
According to GameSpot, the move is intended as a test case for a broader Linux version of the battle‑royale hit. Digital Trends Gaming added that the new anti‑cheat will address security concerns that have long blocked multiplayer titles on the OS. Rock Paper Shotgun noted the effort “will finally bring Fortnite to Linux,” though it warned that Steam Deck support is still uncertain. PC Gamer summed it up as “pushing past the Linux anticheat barrier.” The overhaul targets kernel‑level cheating vectors that have frustrated developers for years.
Why it matters for gamers
Linux users have watched the platform gain traction thanks to devices like the Steam Deck, but multiplayer games have lagged behind because anti‑cheat solutions often rely on Windows‑only drivers. By re‑architecting EAC, Epic not only opens Fortnite to a new audience but also sets a precedent that could help other Unreal Engine titles make the leap. A more open Linux gaming ecosystem could boost hardware sales for portable PCs and handhelds, especially those that already run Linux‑based operating systems.
What to do now
If you own a Linux machine or a handheld such as the Steam Deck, keep an eye on Epic’s developer updates and test builds. Use our Can I run it checker to see if your current setup meets the upcoming requirements. For those interested in the best portable options, our guide to best Gaming Handhelds offers a quick look at devices that already support Linux gaming. Finally, explore our PC / Handheld PC platform guide to understand how to configure your system for optimal performance once Fortnite lands on Linux.
See it on Run On Console
- Best gaming handhelds: our picks
- PC / Handheld PC guide: the consoles, games and gear
- Can I run it?: check a PC game against your hardware
Sources
Verified by 4 trusted sources. This story was written from the reports below and checked against them before it was published.
- Epic Is Overhauling Its Anti-Cheat So That Fortnite Can Finally Come To A New Platform (GameSpot)
- Epic is rebuilding its anti-cheat tech to finally bring Fortnite to Linux (Digital Trends Gaming)
- Fortnite is finally coming to Linux thanks to Epic rebuilding Easy Anti-Cheat, though Steam Deck support is still in the wind (Rock Paper Shotgun)
- Fortnite is coming to Linux once Epic improves Easy Anti-Cheat (PC Gamer)