GTA Online Drops Steam Deck Support: Rockstar Cites Anti-Cheat Incompatibility
Grand Theft Auto V Loses Online Support on Steam Deck
Grand Theft Auto V, a perennial favorite among Steam Deck users, has been reclassified as “unsupported” by Valve due to compatibility issues with its online modes. Despite consistently ranking in the top twenty most-played games on the handheld device for over two years, Rockstar Games has discontinued support for GTA Online on the platform.
The decision stems from Rockstar’s implementation of new anti-cheat software for GTA Online, which is incompatible with the Steam Deck’s Linux-based operating system. This move mirrors similar actions taken by developers of popular titles like Fortnite and Roblox, who opted not to support the Steam Deck with their anti-cheat measures.
Rockstar has placed the onus on Valve, stating that “Steam Deck does not support BattlEye for GTA Online” and directing further inquiries to the platform holder. However, this claim raises questions, as Valve enabled BattlEye compatibility for the Steam Deck years ago, with numerous games successfully integrating the anti-cheat software on the device.
Industry insiders note that enabling BattlEye on Steam Deck is reportedly a straightforward process, requiring only an email from the developer. Rockstar has not responded to requests for comment on why they chose not to pursue this option.
Speculations about the decision range from concerns over potential attempts to dismantle anti-cheat software on Linux systems to economic factors, as suggested by Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney last year.
While GTA Online will no longer be accessible, Rockstar confirms that the single-player mode of GTA V will continue to function on the Steam Deck. The company’s FAQ states, “You will be able to play GTAV Story Mode but unable to play GTA Online.”
As the situation develops, Steam Deck users and industry observers alike await further clarification on the future of online multiplayer support for major titles on the handheld platform.
