Epic Games plans to expand support for more Linux distributions with its new launcher, which is still in preview. Targeted distributions include Fedora, SteamOS, CachyOS, and Omarchy. However, launcher support for SteamOS does not mean Fortnite will simultaneously launch on Steam Deck; the latter still needs to wait until the new anti-cheat requirements are met.
Jake Jones, Epic Games' Director of Communications, stated that this marks the first time the company has explicitly listed SteamOS—running on Steam Deck and Steam Machine—as a supported target. Currently, the preview version only offers .deb installation packages for Debian and Ubuntu. Epic is testing other packaging formats and plans to restore the AppImage version later this month.
Epic first announced its native Linux launcher in August and released a preview version on October 14. With SteamOS support implemented, Steam Deck users will have easier access to their Epic Games library without relying entirely on third-party tools like Heroic Games Launcher. However, Epic has not yet explained how the launcher will adapt to SteamOS's Game Mode. Windows games still need to run through a compatibility layer, and the current preview version downloads GE-Proton to handle this requirement.
The Linux version of Fortnite is further behind in development. Epic intends to offer the game through the new launcher once EAC Linux v2 is ready, but the new anti-cheat system requires devices to have a signed kernel, Secure Boot, and other security features. Epic previously stated that the Steam Deck currently lacks the necessary conditions, and the company is discussing this matter with Valve.