BottlesLinux
vs
Epic Games LauncherWindows
Bottles as a Linux alternative to Epic Games Launcher
Updated
Our verdict
Bottles is a functional but indirect replacement for Epic Games Launcher. It does not provide a native client; instead, it runs the Windows version of the launcher inside a managed Wine or Proton environment. This works well for users comfortable with Linux gaming tools who need access to the Epic Store library. However, it lacks native integration, meaning cloud saves and account sync rely entirely on the Windows app running correctly. It is suitable for advanced users willing to troubleshoot, but not for those expecting a seamless, native Linux experience.
- License
- GPL-3.0-only
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 67.4 (September 7, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Allows downloading and installing Epic Games Store titles
- Manages game libraries through a graphical interface
- Supports running Windows-based game executables
- Provides tools to monitor running game processes
What is different
- No native Linux client; relies on Wine/Proton emulation
- Lacks direct integration with Linux system services for cloud saves
- Higher complexity in setup and troubleshooting compared to native apps
- Free game claiming requires interacting with the Windows UI inside the bottle
Opening your Epic Games Launcher files
Bottles does not directly open or export Epic Games Launcher configuration files or library databases. Since it runs the Windows version of the launcher, all game data, saves, and configuration files are stored within the Windows-style directory structure inside the bottle. You cannot import a native Linux game library or export one to the Windows format directly; you must manage files through the Windows file system view provided by the bottle environment.
Switching from Epic Games Launcher to Bottles, step by step
- Install Bottles from Flathub or your distribution repository
- Create a new bottle using the 'Gaming' preset
- Select Proton or Wine as the runner for better game compatibility
- Install the Epic Games Launcher inside the bottle
- Log in to your Epic Games account within the launcher
- Download and launch your games to verify functionality
Key features of Bottles
- Pre‑configured environments for quick setup
- Switchable runners (Wine, Proton, etc.)
- Integrated dependency installer
- Task manager to monitor processes
- Backup and restore of bottles
- Optimizations for gaming
- Repair tool for broken bottles
How to install Bottles on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.usebottles.bottlessudo dnf install bottlesFrequently asked questions
Does Bottles support cloud saves natively?
No. Cloud saves depend on the Epic Games Launcher running correctly inside the bottle. If the Windows app syncs saves, they will sync, but there is no native Linux integration for this feature.
Can I use Proton with Bottles?
Yes. Bottles allows you to switch between different runners, including Proton versions, which can improve compatibility for specific games compared to standard Wine.
Is Bottles free to use?
Yes. Bottles is open-source software licensed under GPL-3.0-only and is available for free on Flathub and major Linux distributions.
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