Epic Games’ new Launcher is in Preview. GamingOnLinux reported on November 6, 2026, that Epic intends to support SteamOS, naming it alongside Fedora, CachyOS and Omarchy among its Linux targets. The report attributed the plan to Epic communications director Jake Jones. Epic’s Preview page describes the Launcher’s Preview status.
For Steam Deck owners, a launcher and a game’s compatibility are separate questions.
The Linux plans include several package formats
GamingOnLinux reported that the Launcher initially used an AppImage, then moved to a .deb package for Debian and Ubuntu. It also reported that Epic planned to restore AppImage during November 2026 while evaluating Linux package formats.
Launcher support and Fortnite support are separate
El Chapuzas Informático reported on November 8 that Steam Deck requirements for Easy Anti-Cheat Linux v2 were unresolved. That is a separate compatibility issue from the Launcher plan, and it matters for Fortnite.
Third-party routes to an Epic library on Steam Deck
Heroic Games Launcher is a free, open-source option for Epic, GOG and Amazon Prime Games. Its official site lists Linux and Steam Deck support. GamingOnLinux’s SteamOS guide describes installing Heroic through Discover in Desktop Mode and adding individual games to Steam. Discover is the software center in Desktop Mode, rather than the Steam Store.
CNET’s English-language tutorial demonstrates a third-party Heroic setup on Steam Deck, including Desktop Mode and adding games to Steam’s Game Mode.
Lutris uses automated scripts to set up the Windows Epic Store. GamingOnLinux’s guide describes it as a broader option that can be more complex than Heroic.
The Windows Epic Store through Proton is another route: the guide describes installing it as a non-Steam app and adjusting its Steam shortcut. This setup is more manual, and Launcher updates can break it.
