Electronic Arts is seeking a Senior Anti-Cheat Engineer to expand its Javelin system, with a job description mentioning future support for Linux and Proton. This could enable multiplayer games like Battlefield to run on Steam Deck and other Linux devices. Currently, the anti-cheat lacks Linux compatibility, limiting playability.
Electronic Arts (EA) has posted a job listing for a Senior Anti-Cheat Engineer focused on its Javelin Anti-Cheat technology. The listing, highlighted in reports from gaming outlets, emphasizes developing a native ARM driver and adapting functionality for ARM-based devices. Responsibilities include creating systems to load different anti-cheat versions based on user hardware and building automated testing pipelines for ARM systems. Security threats on ARM platforms must also be addressed.
A key detail appears at the end: "Chart a path for EA Javelin Anticheat to support additional OS and hardware in the future, such as Linux and Proton." This suggests EA is considering compatibility with Linux operating systems and Valve's Proton layer, which translates Windows games for Linux.
Presently, Javelin does not support Linux, preventing games such as Battlefield, EA SPORTS FC, and the upcoming Skate reboot from running on Linux devices including the Steam Deck. As noted in the Steam Deck HQ article, while not all EA titles use Javelin—examples include Dragon Quest: The Veilguard and Split Fiction, which already perform well on the Deck—the anti-cheat blocks larger online multiplayer experiences.
The GamingOnLinux report points out the broader industry shift toward Linux gaming, driven by the Steam Deck's popularity and upcoming Steam Machines. PC Guide echoes that ARM development remains the priority, so Linux support may not arrive immediately. However, this indication of planning is viewed positively for expanding accessible gaming options beyond cloud services like GeForce NOW.
EA's move aligns with growing Linux ecosystem support from platforms like GOG and hardware makers such as Nvidia, potentially benefiting handheld and desktop Linux users in the long term.
