9 years after the release of the PC version of GTA 5, Rockstar has finally provided its successful action masterpiece with a proper anti-cheat system. BattlEye is intended to prevent cheaters from ruining the fun for others. However, some innocent players will also be excluded.
What is being done against cheaters? GTA 5 has always had a problem with cheaters, especially on the PC. Now, 9 years after the release of the PC version, Rockstar has given its action classic a new anti-cheat system.
In the patch notes for update 1.69 from September 17, 2024, Rockstar notes alongside new content and fixes for crashes and matchmaking, the integration of BattlEye anti-cheat for GTA 5 Online (via Rockstar).
BattlEye is a powerful anti-cheat software used primarily in shooters like Destiny 2, Fortnite, and XDefiant. However, its use is not without controversy.
According to some Steam players on Reddit, the anti-cheat system in GTA 5 is already active and prevents the game from starting without BattlEye. While some players are looking forward to having fun again, others are out of luck: they are unable to play at all.
Linux users and owners of the Steam Deck are left behind
Why are players being locked out? Apparently, Rockstar did not enable support for Linux when implementing BattlEye. Those using the open-source operating system will therefore simply be excluded from the game – even if they have never cheated (via Reddit).
This is particularly frustrating as Valve’s Steam Deck relies on a proprietary Linux-based operating system. In the official FAQs regarding BattlEye, Rockstar confirms that BattlEye is not supported for GTA Online on the Steam Deck.
Moreover, GTA 5 is one of the most popular games on the Steam Deck (via Steam). On Reddit, some players express their dissatisfaction:
- “I only play on the Steam Deck. What a disappointment.” (via Reddit)
- “I don’t even have a proper PC, so I guess I’m just out of luck.” (via Reddit)
- “I just bought GTA 5 a few days ago to play with my girlfriend since we both have a Steam Deck. This is absurd.” (via Reddit)
However, there are exceptions: Linux players can still play the story mode of GTA 5; this change only applies to GTA Online. Additionally, official Rockstar community servers for roleplaying do not require BattlEye.
Those who have just purchased GTA 5 for the Steam Deck or are planning to do so should now consider whether the story mode and community servers will suffice for them. It remains to be seen whether Rockstar will improve this situation.
Alternatively, players on the Steam Deck have the option to install Windows. This allows you to play games that are not officially supported by Valve’s handheld. However, Windows also comes with drawbacks: Tech expert shows on YouTube why you should not install Windows on your Steam Deck
