Here's why you can't play GTA V on Steam Deck
Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V), a game that has consistently ranked among the top 20 most-played games on Valve's Steam Deck for over two years, is now listed as "unsupported" by Valve. This unexpected change comes after Rockstar Games, the developer of GTA V, inexplicably disrupted compatibility with the handheld device's online modes. The issue appears to be centered around Linux anti-cheat measures, similar to those faced by Fortnite and Roblox developers.
Rockstar's new anti-cheat software incompatible with Steam Deck
Rockstar has chosen not to extend support for its new anti-cheat software, designed specifically for GTA Online, to the Steam Deck. This decision comes despite widespread criticism of cheating within the game. Unlike Fortnite and Roblox, which were never introduced on the handheld device, Rockstar is removing access to the multiplayer portion of its game from existing users. The developer has attributed this issue to Valve's inability to support 'BattlEye' for GTA Online on their platform.
Valve's stance on compatibility
Valve has previously stated that enabling a game with BattlEye to run on Steam Deck is as straightforward as sending an email. This claim contradicts Rockstar's assertion that "Steam Deck does not support BattlEye for GTA Online." The reason behind Rockstar's decision not to activate the alleged switch that allows BattlEye anti-cheat to function on the Steam Deck remains unclear.
Single player mode remains functional
Despite the compatibility issues with its online modes, Rockstar has confirmed that the single player mode of GTA V will continue to function on the Steam Deck. According to Rockstar's FAQ, users "will be able to play GTA V Story Mode but unable to play GTA Online." This announcement provides some reassurance for gamers who primarily enjoy the game's story mode.
