The Finals Devs Confirm SteamOS & Linux Support Despite Anti-Cheat
▼ Summary
– The Finals is implementing kernel-level anti-cheat to combat cheating but will still support Steam Deck and Linux players despite the challenges.
– Kernel-level anti-cheat is becoming essential for competitive multiplayer games but often lacks Linux compatibility, making The Finals an exception.
– Embark Studios confirmed ongoing support for SteamOS/Proton/Wine and Steam Deck, collaborating with CodeWeavers to address compatibility issues.
– The decision reflects the growing player base on Steam Deck and Linux, driven partly by Windows 10’s nearing end-of-life and rising interest in alternatives like SteamOS.
– While support isn’t guaranteed forever, Linux players can currently enjoy The Finals, now in its seventh season since its 2023 launch.
The Finals players on Linux and Steam Deck can breathe a sigh of relief, despite the game’s new kernel-level anti-cheat measures, developer Embark Studios has confirmed ongoing support for these platforms. This announcement comes as a welcome surprise, especially given how often kernel-based security solutions create compatibility issues for non-Windows operating systems.
In a recent Steam update detailing The Finals’ 7.3 patch, Embark explained the necessity of kernel-level anti-cheat, stating it’s becoming essential for competitive multiplayer titles to combat sophisticated cheating methods. Typically, such systems spell trouble for Linux users, as most aren’t designed to function outside Windows environments. However, the studio clarified that SteamOS, Proton, and Wine compatibility will remain intact, even if Linux isn’t an officially supported platform.
The reassurance came via the game’s Discord server, where developers emphasized their commitment to maintaining playability for Steam Deck owners. One team member noted their ongoing coordination with CodeWeavers, the company behind Proton, to test each update before release. While they admitted occasional oversights due to Linux not being their primary focus, they acknowledged the platform’s growing player base and encouraged users to report issues directly.
This stance marks a refreshing shift in an industry where Linux support often gets axed post-launch, as seen with titles like Apex Legends. With Windows 10’s impending end-of-life and alternatives like SteamOS gaining traction, Embark’s decision could reflect broader trends. Gamers increasingly explore Linux-based options, whether through Valve’s handheld or distributions like Bazzite, making continued support a smart move.
For now, The Finals remains accessible to Linux enthusiasts, though the long-term outlook remains uncertain. Still, the studio’s proactive approach offers hope that this competitive shooter won’t follow the pattern of abandoning niche platforms. With Season 7 underway, players can dive back in knowing their preferred setup won’t be left behind, at least for the foreseeable future.
(Source: PC Gamer)
