Can I Play Windows-Only Games on My Steam Deck Without Installing Windows?

-

I’ve been using my Steam Deck since December and I’m really enjoying SteamOS, but I’d love to play some games that are blocked by Windows-only anti-cheat systems, like Call of Duty, Fortnite, and Overwatch. Is there any workaround available, or am I stuck with installing Windows? I really hope there’s another solution!

Can I Play Windows-Only Games on My Steam Deck Without Installing Windows
Call of Duty

Game guides, questions & answers and other Call of Duty posts. If the answer below was not helpful, and still need Help? Submit a comment below or ask a new question.

3 Answers

El1teGamer99 -

Currently, your main options to bypass root-level anti-cheat systems are to stream games via services like Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now, or Amazon Luna, or you can choose to install Windows. A possible workaround could be to use a small external SSD, set up Windows on it, and keep your games there while maintaining SteamOS on the internal drive.

SneakyGamer22 -

Unfortunately, there’s no way to bypass anti-cheat for games not supported on Linux. You can dual-boot Windows on your Steam Deck or use remote playing options like Moonlight or Steam Link to a Windows-running system. Just beware that trying to cheat the system might get you banned, so it’s best not to mess with that!

CloudP1layz -

You can definitely play Overwatch on SteamOS without any issue. Additionally, COD and Fortnite can be accessed through cloud gaming platforms like Game Pass or GeForce Now. Streaming from a console or PC is also a viable option if you’re looking to play these titles.

Leave A Reply

CALL OF DUTY QUESTIONS

Is Apex Legends on Xbox Worth Playing Again?
[Call of Duty] - Is the Xbox version of Apex Legends playable again after all these changes? Let's discuss the current state of the game. View Answer
Why aren't there any Call of Duty games on PlayStation Extra/Premium?
[Call of Duty] - Why isn't a single Call of Duty available on PlayStation Extra/Premium? View Answer
How can my son buy COD points on his child account?
[Call of Duty] - How can I help my son buy COD points on his child PSN account despite spending limits and restrictions? View Answer
Which Gaming Franchise Has Been Ruined the Most Over the Years?
[Call of Duty] - Which top gaming franchise has deteriorated over the years? Here's a discussion on the most affected titles. View Answer
Help! Which PS5 Should I Get My Partner: Disc or Digital?
[Call of Duty] - Confused about which PS5 to buy for my partner: disc or digital? Seeking game compatibility and latest model info. View Answer
Why Do Competitive Shooters Lose Their Appeal as We Get Older?
[Call of Duty] - As I age, I find competitive shooters less enjoyable. Is it just me or do others feel the same? View Answer

RELATED QUESTIONS

Marvel Rivals Crashing and High CPU Usage After Update
[Marvel Rivals] - Facing crashing and high CPU usage issues with Marvel Rivals after the S2 update? Explore user experiences and fixes. View Answer
What's the Best Grip for Adult Hands on the Steam Deck?
What are the best grips for adult hands on a Steam Deck for comfort and ergonomics? View Answer
Issues with gamescope --force-grab-cursor: Need Help!
Struggling with gamescope --force-grab-cursor not working properly in games? Seeking troubleshooting tips. View Answer
X11 vs Wayland: HDR and VRR in Linux Gaming
What's the difference in HDR/VRR support between X11 and Wayland for Linux gaming with new hardware? View Answer
Is Oblivion Remastered Worth Playing with 30fps?
[The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered] - Is Oblivion Remastered worth playing at 30fps for those with lower standards? Let's dive into performance and graphics. View Answer
How Well Do AMD Features Perform on Linux in 2025?
How is AMD technology performance on Linux for gaming in 2025? Insights sought on FSR and FreeSync support. View Answer
What are some budget-friendly alternatives to Oblivion Remastered?
[The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered] - What are some budget-friendly game recommendations for those who can't afford the Oblivion Remaster? View Answer
Why is Marvel Rivals Crashing on My PC After the S2 Update?
[Marvel Rivals] - Facing high CPU usage and crashes in Marvel Rivals after the latest update, looking for fixes or solutions. View Answer
Why can’t I accept the controller configuration in Ryujinx?
Ryujinx controller config issue on desktop mode; unable to accept controls in game mode. View Answer
How can I fix the Epic version of Ghostrunner not launching through Heroic?
[Ghostrunner] - Struggling to launch Ghostrunner on Epic through Heroic? Even with fixes, still encountering C++ runtime errors. View Answer
What games would you pick for an 8-week bedrest with only a Steam Deck?
[MineCraft] - What games would you choose to play if bedridden with broken legs and a Steam Deck for 8 weeks? Share your top picks! View Answer
What Are the Best Game Picks for Steam Deck if I Already Have a Switch?
[Elden Ring] - What are some Steam Deck game recommendations for players who already enjoy the Nintendo Switch? View Answer