Battlefield 6 anti-cheat system excludes Linux systems

Electronic Arts confirms Battlefield 6 will not support Linux systems due to anti-cheat measures.

Battlefield 6 anti-cheat system excludes Linux and legacy PCs

Electronic Arts is launching Battlefield 6, but the game will require players to enable Secure Boot on Windows PCs, which excludes Linux users. The new anti-cheat system, Javelin, will run at the kernel level and demands Secure Boot to function effectively. This requirement continues the precedent set by Battlefield 2042, despite EA's claims that it offers improved security against cheating. The game is slated for release on October 10, 2025, and will not be compatible with devices using Linux or systems like Valve's Steam Deck, which relies on Proton compatibility layers. This move may disappoint many gamers and impact potential sales as EA aims for a goal of 100 million players.

The decision to require Secure Boot reflects EA's commitment to tackling cheating in online games. However, the exclusion of Linux users raises concerns about accessibility and could alienate a significant part of the gaming community. With the growing popularity of alternative operating systems and devices, like the Steam Deck, EA risks leaving behind players who prefer those technologies. As Microsoft continues to tighten control over its Windows kernel, EA might encounter further challenges in balancing security and accessibility. This move could redefine how future games address anti-cheat measures in a rapidly evolving gaming landscape.

Highlights

As the gaming landscape evolves, developers must balance security with inclusivity.