SteamOS devices experience significant challenges due to a lack of comprehensive anti-cheat support, affecting compatibility with many popular multiplayer games. The core issue lies in the fundamental differences between the Windows kernel and the Linux kernel, where SteamOS cannot natively accommodate Windows-based kernel-level anti-cheat systems.
Compatibility and Limitations
Valve has notably improved game compatibility on SteamOS through Proton, an API translation layer, but it does not extend to anti-cheat technologies requiring kernel access. Systems like Ricochet and Vanguard remain incompatible, sidelining some major gaming titles from the SteamOS arsenal. Proton translates APIs but does not provide the level of kernel access required by some anti-cheat mechanisms, leaving those games off-limits on SteamOS.
Efforts and Developer Adoption
Efforts to mitigate this issue include working with companies like Easy Anti-Cheat and BattlEye, which have developed user-space Linux solutions. While functional, these aren't as robust as kernel-level systems. The effectiveness of SteamOS in multiplayer gaming is contingent on developers opting to support Linux/Proton environments, a choice not universally guaranteed.
Choosing the Right Platform
For gamers primarily interested in single-player experiences, SteamOS offers a viable platform. However, those drawn to competitive multiplayer titles often find Windows a more reliable option due to its comprehensive anti-cheat support. Community resources such as ProtonDB and AreWeAntiCheatYet? offer valuable insights into compatibility and functionality on SteamOS.
