Steam Deck Drops Apex Legends Due to Rampant Cheating

Apex Legends Removes Steam Deck Support Due to Widespread Cheating

Electronic Arts (EA) has taken the significant step of blocking all Linux-based systems, including the popular Steam Deck handheld, from accessing Apex Legends. This decision, detailed in a recent blog post by EA Community Manager EA_Mako, directly addresses the escalating problem of cheating originating from the Linux environment.

The open-source nature of Linux, EA explains, presents a significant challenge in combating cheats. The platform’s flexibility allows cheat developers to create and deploy malicious software that is difficult to detect and counter. EA stated that Linux has become "a path for a variety of impactful exploits and cheats," with cheat activity growing at an unsustainable rate. The difficulty in distinguishing legitimate Linux users from cheaters further complicates the issue, especially given the Steam Deck’s default use of Linux. There is currently no reliable method to differentiate between legitimate gameplay and cheating originating from Linux-based systems, according to EA.

This difficult decision, EA emphasizes, prioritizes the overall health of the Apex Legends community. While acknowledging the impact on Linux users, including Steam Deck players who will permanently lose access, the company stressed that the integrity and fairness of the game for the vast majority of players on other platforms outweighs the loss of a relatively small player segment. The blog post clearly states that players on other supported platforms will not be affected. The focus remains on maintaining a fair and enjoyable experience for the broader Apex Legends player base. The images below illustrate the announcement.

[Image 1: Apex Legends Steam Deck Support Removed Due to Rampant Cheating] [Image 2: Apex Legends Steam Deck Support Removed Due to Rampant Cheating] [Image 3: Apex Legends Steam Deck Support Removed Due to Rampant Cheating] [Image 4: Apex Legends Steam Deck Support Removed Due to Rampant Cheating] [Image 5: Apex Legends Steam Deck Support Removed Due to Rampant Cheating]

While the decision is undoubtedly disappointing for many, EA maintains that this action is a necessary measure to combat cheating and uphold the integrity of Apex Legends for its larger player base.