Apex Legends Ends Steam Deck Support Over Cheating Woes

Apex Legends has shaken things up for its Linux and Steam Deck player base. If you’re a fan of Apex on Linux or Steam Deck, you may already be aware that EA and Respawn Entertainment are blocking access to the game on these platforms to curb cheating. Here’s everything you need to know about this controversial decision, what it means for players, and how it reflects the broader fight against cheats in gaming.

Why Linux and Steam Deck Support Was Dropped

EA and Respawn’s decision to end support for Linux OS, which includes the Steam Deck, didn’t come out of nowhere. While Apex Legends has always been a hot spot in the battle royale space, it’s also had its share of struggles with cheaters. According to Respawn, Linux OS has become a “cheat vector”—an attractive pathway for cheaters to exploit, impacting players across the board. In a recent post, Respawn stated that “Linux OS has been a path for a variety of impactful exploits and cheats,” leading to the decision to eliminate Linux access entirely.

Cheating is a serious issue for multiplayer games, and developers are constantly having to adjust their anti-cheat measures to keep up. Respawn’s stance is that while the decision impacts a relatively small portion of players, the potential improvement in the competitive environment outweighs the loss.

Steam Deck’s Unique Challenge

The Steam Deck has gained major popularity, offering a handheld option for PC gaming enthusiasts. But it’s also Linux-based by default, which puts it in the same category as other Linux OS devices. According to EA, one of the big issues was the lack of a “reliable way to differentiate a legitimate Steam Deck from a malicious cheat claiming to be a Steam Deck.” This blurred line meant that the Steam Deck, unfortunately, became part of the larger decision to end Linux support.

For Steam Deck fans, the solution Respawn suggests is to install Windows on the device. While this will let players continue enjoying Apex Legends, the workaround does pose a few extra steps that aren’t ideal for everyone. Windows installation on the Steam Deck isn’t a streamlined process, and it comes with its own set of pros and cons, including potential performance issues and the absence of some key Linux-based features.

The Bigger Picture: Apex Legends and the Ongoing Battle with Cheaters

The issue of cheating is far from unique to Apex Legends, but the game’s competitive nature makes it a prime target for cheats. Apex Legends has seen its fair share of anti-cheat updates, restrictions, and player bans. Yet, every time developers tighten the system, cheaters find new workarounds, creating a vicious cycle.

This isn’t the first time Respawn has made a drastic decision to maintain what it calls “competitive integrity.” In recent years, Apex Legends has rolled back certain gameplay adjustments, changed its Battle Pass, and frequently updated its reporting systems. The decision to drop Linux support is just the latest step in a long series of anti-cheat measures.

Impact on the Community: How Players Feel

The decision has understandably sparked mixed reactions. On one hand, Apex’s large player base appreciates the effort to curb cheating. Many players are frustrated by cheaters, especially those who exploit the game in ways that harm fair competition. Knowing Respawn is prioritizing these issues offers reassurance to some in the community.

On the other hand, for Linux and Steam Deck users who play fairly, this move feels like an unfair penalty. It’s a significant hit to the player experience, especially for those who prefer playing Apex on Steam Deck. Now, with a workaround that requires Windows installation, some players feel that the burden has shifted to them, raising concerns about whether this is an effective long-term solution.

Alternatives for Steam Deck Users

If you’re one of the dedicated Apex Legends fans using a Steam Deck, here’s what you can do to keep playing despite the block:

1. Install Windows on Steam Deck: This is the primary solution for those who want to continue playing Apex Legends on the Steam Deck. Windows installation guides are widely available, and Valve itself provides drivers for the Steam Deck on Windows. However, note that performance may vary compared to playing on Linux, and certain features may not be as seamless.
2. Play on Other Platforms: For those who aren’t set on handheld play, switching to an Xbox, PlayStation, or traditional PC setup is always an option. Apex Legends is optimized for these platforms, ensuring a consistent experience without any Linux-related issues.
3. Explore Other Handheld Games: For some players, this decision may be the final push to explore other games compatible with Steam Deck’s native Linux OS. Given the recent surge in handheld gaming, there are plenty of alternative titles out there that offer robust multiplayer experiences.

What’s Next for Apex Legends?

With Season 22, titled Shockwave, wrapping up and Season 23 on the horizon, Apex Legends continues to evolve. While there’s no sign of an Apex Legends 2, Respawn remains committed to improving the game’s ecosystem, even if it means making tough decisions. As anti-cheat measures become increasingly sophisticated, it’s likely we’ll see similar steps taken across other popular games.

While this decision feels like a setback for some, it signals the broader industry challenge of combating cheating and maintaining fair play. For now, Respawn is holding firm on its stance that removing Linux OS support will help create a cleaner, more competitive experience for the majority of Apex Legends players.

^{While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!}