Delta Force on Linux: A Hopeful Glimpse

The recently released Delta Force, a free-to-play online first-person shooter (FPS) from Team Jade and TiMi Studio Group, has taken the gaming world by storm. However, its launch excluded a significant portion of the gaming community: Linux users. This has left many wondering if they will ever be able to experience this highly anticipated title.

Current Status: No Official Linux Support

Currently, Delta Force does not officially support Linux platforms, including the popular Steam Deck handheld. This is primarily due to the game's reliance on a kernel-level anti-cheat system, Anti-Cheat Expert (ACE), which isn't yet compatible with Linux. One developer, writing on the Steam forum, stated plainly: "Linux is currently not supported. And Steam Deck is also not supported at the moment, but we will start considering how to port it."

The Challenges of Anti-Cheat Compatibility

The lack of Linux support isn't simply a matter of porting the game itself. While Proton, a compatibility layer for running Windows games on Linux, can often bridge the gap, the anti-cheat system presents a major hurdle. The developer's statement implies that enabling ACE for Proton is not a trivial task. Unlike some anti-cheat systems like BattlEye and Easy Anti-Cheat, which have shown greater compatibility with Proton, ACE's integration may prove more complex. This complexity stems from its kernel-level nature, requiring deeper integration with the operating system's core functionalities, which differs significantly between Windows and Linux.

The Proton Experiment: Success with Caveats

Despite the lack of official support, some users have attempted to run Delta Force on Linux using Proton, a compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run on Linux. Early tests using Proton versions 9.0-3, Proton Experimental, and GE-Proton 9.20 on desktop Linux systems revealed consistent network errors during the login process. While some users could eventually bypass these errors and reach the main menu, the launcher frequently crashed, returning to the Steam library. The experience on the Steam Deck proved somewhat different. Using Proton Experimental on SteamOS 3.6, some were able to successfully launch the game. However, this success is not guaranteed, and consistency isn't guaranteed.

The Risks of Unofficial Play

It's crucial to emphasize that playing Delta Force on Linux using Proton remains unofficial and carries significant risks. The game's reliance on its anti-cheat system means that any attempts to run it on unsupported platforms could result in game bans or unexpected malfunctions. The game might function inconsistently or stop working altogether at any point in time. This makes any current attempts at playing the game highly risky, and it's best to avoid it until official support is announced. The time invested and potential loss of account access are not worth the temporary enjoyment.

A Future with Linux Support?

While the current situation isn't ideal for Linux gamers, the developer's statement about "considering how to port it" offers a glimmer of hope. The possibility of future Linux support isn't entirely ruled out. The developer's open acknowledgement of the issue and willingness to explore solutions indicate a potential commitment to broader platform compatibility. Whether this translates into official support in the near future remains to be seen, but monitoring the developer's communications and the game's anti-cheat compatibility page will be important for interested Linux gamers.

Keeping an Eye on the Horizon: Updates and Possibilities

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges and opportunities in cross-platform compatibility in the gaming industry. As anti-cheat technology evolves and Proton continues to improve, we may see more games embrace wider platform support. For now, Linux users interested in Delta Force will have to remain patient and keep an eye on official announcements. Patience and continued monitoring of the developer's updates are key. Any future developments regarding Linux support will be reported as soon as possible. Remember to check for updates regarding anti-cheat compatibility on the official website, and share your experiences in the community forums.

Delta Force (2024) | Release Date: 4th December 2024