EA’s Anti-Cheat Breakthrough: A Game Changer for Steam Deck and Linux Gaming
Electronic Arts is making a significant move towards broader gaming compatibility. A recent job posting reveals EA is seeking developers to create a native ARM driver for its Javelin Anti-Cheat system. This initiative also includes mapping a strategy for future support of operating systems like Linux and the Proton compatibility layer.
This development could indicate that EA’s major multiplayer titles will soon be playable on devices such as the Steam Deck, other Linux systems, and ARM-based Windows laptops.
The Problem with Anti-Cheat and Linux/ARM
Currently, many of EA’s popular games are limited to x86 Windows PCs and consoles. The primary reason? Javelin Anti-Cheat, which requires kernel-level security and, strict hardware and OS requirements. Many Linux and ARM devices possess the power to run EA’s games, but have been unable to due to these anti-cheat restrictions.
A native ARM driver and wider OS support could eliminate these restrictions. For handhelds like the Steam Deck, this is a major potential boost, as they are powerful enough for AAA games but have been hindered by anti-cheat software.
Linux Gaming Gains Momentum
Linux gaming has grown substantially in recent years, largely thanks to Valve’s Proton. Proton is a compatibility layer that translates Windows games to run on Linux, often with little to no noticeable performance difference. On low-power devices like the Steam Deck, some titles even perform better than on Windows.
However, anti-cheat software has remained the biggest obstacle. Many multiplayer games still refuse to launch outside of a controlled x86 Windows environment, excluding Linux and ARM users.
EA’s investment signals that the company is now taking this market seriously. When Javelin Anti-Cheat becomes compatible with Linux and ARM, millions of gamers could finally access EA’s popular multiplayer titles.
What This Means for the Future of PC Gaming
This move by EA could position pressure on other game developers and publishers to follow suit. Epic Games has already added Easy Anti-Cheat support for ARM and Linux, but even then, Fortnite itself doesn’t yet run on those platforms. Wider adoption of anti-cheat solutions compatible with diverse hardware and operating systems will be crucial for the continued growth of the PC gaming market.
The increasing popularity of ARM-based Windows laptops, like those expected from Nvidia, further incentivizes this shift. EA’s commitment to Javelin on ARM is essential for its games to run on these new devices.
Timeline and Expectations
EA is currently recruiting for the necessary positions, so it will likely be several months before the first titles are actually compatible with ARM and Linux. However, the investment is significant, indicating a serious commitment to platform-independent access to its major titles.
FAQ
Q: What is Javelin Anti-Cheat?
A: Javelin Anti-Cheat is EA’s proprietary kernel-level anti-cheat system, designed to prevent cheating in its multiplayer games.
Q: What is Proton?
A: Proton is a compatibility layer developed by Valve that allows Windows-based games to run on Linux operating systems.
Q: Will this affect all EA games?
A: Initially, the focus is on making Javelin Anti-Cheat compatible with ARM and Linux. It’s likely that newer EA titles will be designed with this compatibility in mind.
Q: When can I expect to play EA games on my Steam Deck?
A: EA is still in the hiring process, so a specific timeline is not yet available. Expect updates in the coming months.
Did you realize? EA Javelin Anticheat has blocked over 33 million cheat attempts across 2.2 billion PC gaming sessions since launch.
What are your thoughts on EA’s move? Share your opinions in the comments below and let us know which EA games you’re most excited to play on your Steam Deck or Linux PC!
