Epic Games is recruiting a Senior Game Security Engineer with deep Linux expertise to strengthen Easy Anti-Cheat support on the platform. The job posting reveals plans to work on anti-cheat systems across both Epic's titles and third-party games, suggesting renewed interest in Linux compatibility after years of resistance.

While EAC already includes a Linux compatibility mode, it essentially disables kernel-level anti-cheat protections that make the system effective on Windows. This limitation has kept major titles like Fortnite locked out of Linux platforms, including Steam Deck, despite user demand.

Tim Sweeney previously criticized Linux gaming support, though Epic eventually added the compatibility mode following Steam Deck's release. The hiring push comes amid significant restructuring, with Epic laying off over 1,000 employees as Fortnite's player base shifts and revenue patterns change.

This move signals Epic may be pivoting its strategy to embrace Linux gaming more fully, potentially unlocking Fortnite and other titles for Steam Deck users who have been excluded from the battle royale experience.