Epic Games Launcher Adds Linux Support in New Preview

The launcher is on Linux now. Fortnite is not.

Epic Games released its rebuilt launcher in public preview on October 14, 2026, adding native Linux support alongside Windows and macOS. The announcement also sets out plans to bring Fortnite to Linux, but gives no release date.

For readers following our Steam Deck games guide, that distinction is worth keeping clear: a native launcher does not mean every game in its library will work.

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Check compatibility before switching

The official preview page lists Ubuntu 22.04 LTS+, Fedora 43+, and Debian 12+ as supported distributions. Many games remain Windows-only builds and may need a compatibility layer.

Installing the preview automatically uninstalls the legacy launcher. Epic says purchases, installed games, cloud saves, and progress carry over, but some features are still missing. The Mac preview supports Apple Silicon only.

The redesigned interface adds clearer download tracking and library organization. Epic also promises faster performance; this is not a hands-on assessment.

The preview’s download manager tracks queued games, transfer speeds, and storage. Image: Epic Games.

Fortnite depends on the anti-cheat rollout

In its technical announcement, Epic says it plans to pilot Easy Anti-Cheat Linux v2 in Fortnite, then offer it to more developers after validation. Requirements include signed kernels and modules, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot. Some distributions may need configuration changes.

Epic also says Steam Deck does not currently support the features required for EAC Linux v2. The company is talking with Valve about future support, but has not announced a date.

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