For Honor Blocks Linux Players as Ubisoft Disables Anti-Cheat Support

Anti-Cheat Changes Force Platform Exclusivity

Ubisoft will cut off Linux compatibility for its melee fighter For Honor on September 10, affecting SteamOS, Steam Deck, and desktop Linux users. The change stems from disabling Easy Anti-Cheat support, which previously allowed the game to run on Linux platforms. The decision impacts thousands of players who rely on Linux-based systems for gaming.

The third-person hero-based fighting game has supported Linux since its launch through Valve's Steam Play compatibility layer and native SteamOS integration. Easy Anti-Cheat, developed by Epic Games, had been functioning on Linux to prevent cheating in online multiplayer matches. Ubisoft's move to disable this protection system means the game will no longer launch on Linux-based operating systems. This follows a broader industry trend where publishers are reconsidering Linux support due to technical challenges and smaller player bases.

Easy Anti-Cheat's Linux support was introduced in 2021 after extensive development by Epic Games and Valve. The system required specific kernel-level integration that some developers found difficult to maintain. Ubisoft has not provided detailed For Honor's competitive multiplayer modes depend heavily on robust anti-cheat measures, making the Linux support particularly sensitive. The September 10 shutdown aligns with Ubisoft's regular maintenance schedule for the game's backend services.

What Does This Mean for Linux Gamers?

The change affects approximately 15 percent of Steam users who operate on Linux-based systems, including the growing Steam Deck handheld community. Players who purchased For Honor specifically for Linux gaming will lose access unless they switch to Windows. Ubisoft's decision may influence other publishers' approaches to Linux compatibility, especially for competitive online games requiring strict anti-cheat enforcement.

For Honor joins a growing list of titles abandoning Linux support, including games from Electronic Arts and Activision Blizzard. The move reflects ongoing tensions between platform inclusivity and competitive integrity in online gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will For Honor still work on Windows after September 10? Yes, the game continues functioning normally on Windows PCs, with no changes to anti-cheat or gameplay features.

Can Linux players get refunds for For Honor? Steam's refund policy allows purchases within 14 days and under two hours of playtime, though exceptions may apply for compatibility removals.

Are other Ubisoft games affected by this change? Ubisoft has not announced similar changes for other titles, though Watch Dogs Legion and Rainbow Six Siege maintain Linux compatibility through separate systems.