Epic Games has recently made headlines with their announcement regarding the expansion of Fortnite and their Epic Online Services Anti-Cheat, specifically targeting Windows Arm devices. This development, revealed on March 13th, marks a significant step in broadening the accessibility of their popular game.
Collaboration with Qualcomm
In a news post, Epic Games stated:
We are working with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to add Windows on Snapdragon support to Epic Online Services Anti-Cheat, also known as Easy Anti-Cheat, and make Fortnite available for Windows on Snapdragon devices later this year. This will help developers bring more games to more devices.
This collaboration highlights Epic’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience across various platforms, particularly as the Windows on Arm segment continues to grow within the PC gaming market.
Current Landscape of Anti-Cheat Support
While Epic’s Easy Anti-Cheat does extend its support to Linux, including the Steam Deck running SteamOS, it’s important to note that the kernel-level functionality is not fully supported. This limitation has led to some games, such as Apex Legends, withdrawing their support for Linux platforms.
Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, previously expressed skepticism about supporting Fortnite on the Steam Deck until it reaches a substantial user base. His comments from late 2023 suggest that Epic is cautious about investing in platforms where they do not see immediate financial returns. This perspective is understandable, especially considering the competitive landscape with Valve and their Epic Games Store.
Financial Considerations and Market Dynamics
Despite the challenges faced by the Epic Games Store, which relies heavily on Fortnite’s revenue while experiencing a decline in third-party game spending, the business rationale remains clear. Epic is keen on ensuring that any new platform they support can deliver significant revenue. With major stakeholders like Tencent, Disney, and Sony invested in their success, the pressure to perform is palpable.
The Windows platform, already a dominant force, is expected to see further growth with the introduction of Windows on Arm. Epic’s recognition of this “rapidly growing segment” indicates their strategic focus on maximizing opportunities in the gaming market.
Future Prospects for Linux Gaming
As for the potential of Fortnite making its way to Linux platforms, the future remains uncertain. The hope lies in the growing user base of Steam Deck and SteamOS devices, particularly with Valve’s recent announcement of impressive gaming statistics. With 330 million hours logged on Steam Deck in 2024, reflecting a 64% increase from the previous year, there is optimism for the platform’s continued expansion.
Ultimately, the gaming community watches closely to see if Epic Games will adapt their strategy and embrace the Linux market. Until then, the focus remains on maximizing their current partnerships and ensuring that each platform they engage with can deliver the financial success they seek.
As Epic Games continue ignoring Linux / Steam Deck for Fortnite they’re putting it on Windows Arm
Epic Games has recently made headlines with their announcement regarding the expansion of Fortnite and their Epic Online Services Anti-Cheat, specifically targeting Windows Arm devices. This development, revealed on March 13th, marks a significant step in broadening the accessibility of their popular game.
Collaboration with Qualcomm
In a news post, Epic Games stated:
This collaboration highlights Epic’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience across various platforms, particularly as the Windows on Arm segment continues to grow within the PC gaming market.
Current Landscape of Anti-Cheat Support
While Epic’s Easy Anti-Cheat does extend its support to Linux, including the Steam Deck running SteamOS, it’s important to note that the kernel-level functionality is not fully supported. This limitation has led to some games, such as Apex Legends, withdrawing their support for Linux platforms.
Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, previously expressed skepticism about supporting Fortnite on the Steam Deck until it reaches a substantial user base. His comments from late 2023 suggest that Epic is cautious about investing in platforms where they do not see immediate financial returns. This perspective is understandable, especially considering the competitive landscape with Valve and their Epic Games Store.
Financial Considerations and Market Dynamics
Despite the challenges faced by the Epic Games Store, which relies heavily on Fortnite’s revenue while experiencing a decline in third-party game spending, the business rationale remains clear. Epic is keen on ensuring that any new platform they support can deliver significant revenue. With major stakeholders like Tencent, Disney, and Sony invested in their success, the pressure to perform is palpable.
The Windows platform, already a dominant force, is expected to see further growth with the introduction of Windows on Arm. Epic’s recognition of this “rapidly growing segment” indicates their strategic focus on maximizing opportunities in the gaming market.
Future Prospects for Linux Gaming
As for the potential of Fortnite making its way to Linux platforms, the future remains uncertain. The hope lies in the growing user base of Steam Deck and SteamOS devices, particularly with Valve’s recent announcement of impressive gaming statistics. With 330 million hours logged on Steam Deck in 2024, reflecting a 64% increase from the previous year, there is optimism for the platform’s continued expansion.
Ultimately, the gaming community watches closely to see if Epic Games will adapt their strategy and embrace the Linux market. Until then, the focus remains on maximizing their current partnerships and ensuring that each platform they engage with can deliver the financial success they seek.