New Anti-Cheat System For GTA Online Removes Support For Steam Deck Users

Grand Theft Auto developer Rockstar Games is currently keeping occupied with the finishing touches for Grand Theft Auto VI set to release next fall. Previously, it was reported that the game has already entered the final phase of its development as the game studio transitions to buffing out the rougher spots in the game. 

As for the current Grand Theft Auto V, it appears the game is on its last breath with more anticipation growing for the sequel. However, a new update did drop for the game recently. As per Rockstar Games, new anti-cheat for GTA Online has went live which now removes the ability to play the game on Linux-running machines. This also extends to the Valve’s Steam Deck which uses the operating system.

With the introduction of BattleEye anti-cheat, Rockstar Games is looking towards new methods to combat growing misuse in-game of third-party exploits & other malicious cheats. “BattlEye is used to detect and prohibit attempts to use cheating software accessing GTA Online servers, attempts to manipulate game protected code, and the sabotage of other players’ experience,” the firm explains in the new FAQ.

“BattlEye is kernel anti-cheat software that protects online Rockstar Games players from cheaters. As part of our ongoing efforts to protect our community, we have begun monitoring and prohibiting suspicious activity on PC via BattlEye.” What’s worst is that GTA Online will now be unavailable for Steam Deck users. “Steam Deck does not support BattlEye for GTA Online. You will be able to play GTAV Story Mode but unable to play GTA Online,” it explains.

This comes to be most troubling when realizing how popular Grand Theft Auto V is for Steam Deck players. While it does not realistically put a number to how many of those users play GTA Online, it does add some significance now understanding that the game is in the top 10 most-played titles for the PC handheld, according to the official website.

What’s more, this is comes at a surprise after Rockstar Games did appear to be clearing out the bad air for between itself and PC users. Previously, it was revealed that the firm acquired modding community Cfx.re – a role-playing team for GTA Online. But now with this sudden change does shock some on Steam Deck and those that play the game with Linux on their own PCs. You can read the full report by heading here.

Are you affected by this recent change for GTA Online?

Source: Rockstar Support