Games Blocked by Anti-Cheat on Steam Machine
Kernel-level anti-cheat doesn't work through Proton. These games are permanently blocked — no workaround, no Proton trick, no Wine config.
Why Some Games Don't Work
■ Kernel-Level Anti-Cheat
Runs as a Windows kernel driver — has no equivalent in Linux/Proton. Cannot work. Includes: Vanguard (Valorant, LoL), Ricochet (COD), Faceit, Nexon Game Security.
■ EAC / BattlEye — Developer Disabled
Both EAC and BattlEye can support Linux/Proton — but the game developer must flip a switch. Many haven't. These games could work if the developer chose to enable it.
■ EAC / BattlEye — Linux Enabled
Some developers enabled it. Games like Elden Ring, Apex Legends (until Oct 2024) and War Thunder prove it works. This is the bright side — more games are enabling Linux support every quarter.
The Full List
This list is maintained with data from GamingOnLinux and ProtonDB. Last updated: June 26, 2026.
| Game | Anti-Cheat | Status | Why |
|---|
Will Fortnite Ever Work?
No. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has publicly stated he opposes supporting Linux for competitive games because he believes kernel-level anti-cheat is the only effective approach. Fortnite uses both EAC and BattlEye — but both are configured without Linux support by Epic's choice. Unless Epic's leadership position changes, Fortnite will never run on Steam Machine.
Will Apex Legends Come Back?
Unknown. EA disabled EAC Linux support in October 2024 without explanation. Before that, Apex Legends worked perfectly on Steam Deck and Linux via Proton. The community has been vocal, but EA hasn't responded. If you play Apex, assume it won't work until EA officially announces otherwise.