The Finals is updating with kernel-level anti-cheat, which usually spells trouble for Linux and Steam Deck players, but Embark Studios has made it clear they won’t be leaving those users behind. This update matters because kernel-level anti-cheat often blocks Linux compatibility, yet the devs are committed to keeping the game playable on SteamOS.
Last week, Embark Studios announced Update 7.3 for The Finals, which includes a major security shift. They explained that many cheats now run kernel drivers, which operate with high privileges on Windows to manipulate game memory in ways that are difficult to detect. Their solution? Kernel-driver Anti-Cheat, something they believe will become a must-have for competitive multiplayer titles moving forward.
Kernel-level anti-cheat usually doesn’t work on Linux, which is why many games drop support once they implement it. But The Finals seems to be an exception. In a recent community update on their official Discord (also shared on Reddit), the devs said, “There are no plans to drop support for SteamOS/Proton/Wine and/or SteamDeck.” They emphasized their commitment to doing their best to keep the game playable, even though Steam Deck isn’t officially supported as a primary platform.
One dev added that since Season 5, they’ve been working closely with CodeWeavers to QA every release to catch Steam Deck issues early. While they admit to sometimes missing things, they recognize the passionate and growing Steam Deck player base and urge players to report any problems so they can investigate and implement fixes.
With Windows 10 nearing the end of its life this October, more gamers may look to SteamOS or Linux alternatives, such as Bazzite, instead of Windows 11. Embark Studios’ approach might urge more Linux gaming on competitive shooters — a space where support has been spotty at best.
Of course, things can always change. Other games, like Apex Legends, once supported Linux but eventually dropped it. Will The Finals stick with its promise? For now, Linux and Steam Deck players can keep jumping into its seventh season without worries. That’s kinda a big deal in this corner of gaming.
