Linux OS is no longer supported for Apex Legends, including on the Steam Deck, according to Respawn Entertainment. Those who loved playing Apex Legends on the operating system will be disappointed by the decision, even though the developer claims that this change will make it simpler to catch cheaters.

The issue of cheats in Apex Legends is well known. Since the game's launch in early 2019, Respawn has faced a formidable opponent in the form of hackers and cheats who try to undermine the battle royale's competitive nature and enjoyment. Following multiple community concerns, the developer has made tackling Apex Legends' cheating problem a higher priority and stated that additional initiatives will be implemented in the upcoming months to tackle the issue. Players recently became aware of a new adjustment pertaining to anti-cheat measures.

Respawn said in a recent developer update that Apex Legends is no longer playable on Linux PCs and Steam Decks. The developer claims that eliminating support for Linux will aid in maintaining the game's competitive integrity, which is a "top priority" in decision-making. Although Linux offered an alternative way to run the game, the operating system's "openness" posed a serious risk and may have opened the door for "a variety of impactful exploits and cheats."

The Player Base Of Apex Legends Was Not Largely Comprised Of Linux Users

Respawn stated that it considered both the total number of players and the amount of players using Linux when coming to this conclusion. The number of Apex Legends players on Linux devices was still quite modest, even if the game's user base on platforms like Steam has been dropping in recent months. Nonetheless, the developer update pointed out that this player demographic was still able to access a sizable portion of games, posing a serious risk of cheating.

Ultimately, Respawn discontinued Linux support due to the low player population and significant danger of cheating. The choice to not support a competitive shooter on the operating system is not unique, despite the fact that Apex Legends gamers who previously played on Linux are undoubtedly disappointed by this shift. Linux is not supported by other well-known competitive games like Valorant and Fortnite. Additionally, Apex Legends gamers on Steam Deck have a fix. Respawn noted that by installing Windows, players could still access the game on Valve's portable device.

Season 23 of the battle royale game Apex Legends is almost approaching, but the game is still fighting cheaters. Although there aren't many information yet, the developer has already begun to tease the next season. It is hoped that further anti-cheat features will be included in the upcoming seasonal update to make Apex Legends more entertaining for players.