SteamOS, Valve’s Linux-based operating system, has carved out a niche as a console-like experience for the Steam Deck and other compatible devices. It provides a cohesive ecosystem that many believe rivals the ambitions of Xbox’s gaming framework. With features like cloud saves and cross-device connectivity, SteamOS seamlessly integrates across Windows, Linux, and Mac platforms.
Developer concerns and Valve’s response to anti-cheat limitations
However, SteamOS faces significant challenges, particularly regarding its compatibility with an increasing number of games that employ kernel-level anti-cheat systems and require Trusted Platform Module 2.0 support. Recently, Valve introduced the Steam Machine, a compact PC-console hybrid designed to fit neatly into home entertainment setups. Yet, this innovation has not swayed all developers. Alistair McFarlane, COO of Facepunch Studios, recently announced that Rust, a popular multiplayer survival game, will not support SteamOS or Linux. He articulated the team’s concerns on Reddit, stating:
“There are no plans to support Proton or Linux. It’s a vector for cheat developers, and one that would be poorly maintained by both us and EAC due to the low user base. When we stopped support for Linux, we saw more cheat users exploiting Linux than actual legitimate users.”
— Alistair McFarlane
Rust is not alone in this trend; Apex Legends also dropped Linux support in 2024, joining a list of major titles like Call of Duty, Battlefield 6, Valorant, League of Legends, and Fortnite, which are inaccessible on Linux. This trend poses a significant barrier for players considering Linux as a viable gaming platform.
Despite these setbacks, there remains a glimmer of hope. Valve has publicly acknowledged the issue, with Pierre-Loup Griffais, a software engineer at the company, revealing their ongoing efforts to develop anti-cheat solutions for SteamOS. He remarked:
“We’ve been working with a bunch of developers, right? Like the players in the field that you might expect that are doing a lot of advanced anti-cheat stuff on the client side, and we’re trying to make sure that we’re working together towards something that can be supported.”
— Pierre-Loup Griffais
Valve’s biggest remaining challenge
Valve’s hardware roadmap appears robust, featuring the Steam Machine, Steam Deck, and more innovations on the horizon. However, pricing remains a critical factor. While Valve subsidized the Steam Deck, it has confirmed that the Steam Machine will not enjoy similar financial support.
Nonetheless, Valve’s commitment to addressing these challenges is commendable. The persistent issue of kernel-level anti-cheat systems blocking support for popular multiplayer games stands as the most formidable obstacle. The success of Valve’s initiatives may hinge on their ability to persuade developers to collaborate and on whether SteamOS can cultivate a substantial user base that developers cannot overlook. If successful, studios may find it necessary to work closely with Valve to integrate these systems into Linux.
Despite Valve’s strong position in the handheld gaming market, particularly in comparison to Microsoft, these barriers could hinder the growth of SteamOS. Many of the most-played games today rely heavily on anti-cheat mechanisms, a concern that does not affect Windows-based handhelds like the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. As these devices continue to evolve and enhance user experience, it is likely that gamers will gravitate towards handhelds that offer access to the most popular titles on the go.
What are your thoughts on this evolving landscape? We invite you to share your insights in the comments!
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SteamOS is so close to greatness — but can Valve finally crack anti‑cheat and remove the biggest barrier holding PC gamers back?
SteamOS, Valve’s Linux-based operating system, has carved out a niche as a console-like experience for the Steam Deck and other compatible devices. It provides a cohesive ecosystem that many believe rivals the ambitions of Xbox’s gaming framework. With features like cloud saves and cross-device connectivity, SteamOS seamlessly integrates across Windows, Linux, and Mac platforms.
Developer concerns and Valve’s response to anti-cheat limitations
However, SteamOS faces significant challenges, particularly regarding its compatibility with an increasing number of games that employ kernel-level anti-cheat systems and require Trusted Platform Module 2.0 support. Recently, Valve introduced the Steam Machine, a compact PC-console hybrid designed to fit neatly into home entertainment setups. Yet, this innovation has not swayed all developers. Alistair McFarlane, COO of Facepunch Studios, recently announced that Rust, a popular multiplayer survival game, will not support SteamOS or Linux. He articulated the team’s concerns on Reddit, stating:
Rust is not alone in this trend; Apex Legends also dropped Linux support in 2024, joining a list of major titles like Call of Duty, Battlefield 6, Valorant, League of Legends, and Fortnite, which are inaccessible on Linux. This trend poses a significant barrier for players considering Linux as a viable gaming platform.
Despite these setbacks, there remains a glimmer of hope. Valve has publicly acknowledged the issue, with Pierre-Loup Griffais, a software engineer at the company, revealing their ongoing efforts to develop anti-cheat solutions for SteamOS. He remarked:
Valve’s biggest remaining challenge
Valve’s hardware roadmap appears robust, featuring the Steam Machine, Steam Deck, and more innovations on the horizon. However, pricing remains a critical factor. While Valve subsidized the Steam Deck, it has confirmed that the Steam Machine will not enjoy similar financial support.
Nonetheless, Valve’s commitment to addressing these challenges is commendable. The persistent issue of kernel-level anti-cheat systems blocking support for popular multiplayer games stands as the most formidable obstacle. The success of Valve’s initiatives may hinge on their ability to persuade developers to collaborate and on whether SteamOS can cultivate a substantial user base that developers cannot overlook. If successful, studios may find it necessary to work closely with Valve to integrate these systems into Linux.
Despite Valve’s strong position in the handheld gaming market, particularly in comparison to Microsoft, these barriers could hinder the growth of SteamOS. Many of the most-played games today rely heavily on anti-cheat mechanisms, a concern that does not affect Windows-based handhelds like the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. As these devices continue to evolve and enhance user experience, it is likely that gamers will gravitate towards handhelds that offer access to the most popular titles on the go.
What are your thoughts on this evolving landscape? We invite you to share your insights in the comments!
More Black Friday 2025 – quick links
Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!