Gaming on Linux is getting more and more popular because of new Linux operating systems like Steam OS, Bazzite, and CachyOS as well as the compatibility systems that come with them as standard. The only problem to conquer now are anti-cheat systems, which are the biggest barrier for multiplayer games. So if you are trying to figure out if a game will run on Linux, this guide will split most common systems into clear categories so you can check what typically works and what doesn't.

Takeaways:

  1. Clear breakdown of anti-cheat compatibility on Linux
  2. What Anti-Cheat systems work on Linux and what ones don't

Linux Anti-Cheat Compatibility? Is it Even a Thing?

A lot of modern multiplayer games use kernel-level or system-level anti-cheat tools to prevent cheating and since pretty much all of these are designed specifically for Windows. They don't fully function properly through compatibility layers like Proton or Wine.

However! Some anti-cheat providers have added Linux support, though it usually depends on whether the game developer enables it. This means the same anti-cheat can work in one game and fail in another. It's the dice roll you have to make when switching to Linux. But if you're like me and only play single player games Linux is a great alternative to gaming on Windows.

What Usually Works on Linux?

These anti-cheat systems have native support or are known to work reliably when properly configured by developers. This is a general rule and does not apply to all of them 100% of the time but they are are best of all the current anti-cheat systems on the market.

Easy Anti-Cheat: Easy Anti-Cheat can work on Linux through Proton, but only if developers explicitly enable Linux support. Many newer titles have this enabled, making it one of the more Linux-friendly options.

BattlEye: Also supports Linux via Proton when developers opt in. Support is becoming more common, but it's not widely adopted yet.

Valve Anti-Cheat: VAC works seamlessly on Linux. Since it is developed by Valve, it integrates well with Steam and Proton without requiring additional configuration. It's one of the best ones getting around to be honest.

Warden: Warden, used in Blizzard games, generally works through Wine or Proton depending on the specific title and setup.

What Sometimes Works on Linux (Depending on Developers)

These anti-cheat systems may work in certain situations, but compatibility is all over the place and depends heavily on developer implementation.

XIGNCODE3: Has limited compatibility with Linux environments. Some games may run, but stability and reliability are not guaranteed. You'll have to check the games individually.

Nexon Game Security: Super rare that this one works. There's probably only a couple of games to be honest.

nProtect GameGuard: Is known for aggressive system checks. It occasionally works with tweaks, but most users experience issues. So you're better off just skipping this one.

What Doesn't Work on Linux?

These anti-cheat systems are currently incompatible with Linux and block gameplay entirely. So don't bother even trying to figure out a workaround.

Vanguard: Requires deep kernel-level access and is tightly integrated with Windows. It does not function on Linux systems.

Ricochet: Used in certain competitive shooters, does not support Linux and prevents games from launching under Proton or Wine.

EA Javelin: Is a newer anti-cheat system with no Linux support. Games using it are effectively locked to Windows.