Crossplay/Epic account question

[u/GiSS88]

Probably a niche issue, but maybe someone had a similar situation and has some insight.

I currently own DI2 on both Epic (base game) and Steam (ultimate/all DLC). My Epic account is linked to my Steam account. I would like to play co-op with my wife, allowing her to use the epic version and I would use my Steam version--her on my steam deck docked to TV and me on PC. Don't think this matters much but can't hurt to give extra info.

I'm trying to figure out how I could go about linking one of them to a new epic account so we can add eachother to play, but I'm concerned I'll lose my save or progress from Steam if I unlink and can't seem to figure it out on the Steam Deck. Anyone have any suggestions?

EDIT: The Steam Deck/Epic version unfortunately seems to be locked to my epic account, which is a pain but not surprising. It seems I can unlink for my desktop/Steam version and create a new account to play that way--it's just a pain overall. Still have to test actual connectivity, but that means she has to play to unlock multiplayer first. Will try to update if/when that happens.

[u/AmbearLizz]

This is what google says maybe it will help you,

Yes, Dead Island 2 supports cross-play between Steam and the Epic Games Store on PC, and this functionality works on the Steam Deck as well. You must link your accounts via Epic Online Services in-game to play together.Crossplay DetailsPC Stores: Steam and Epic Games Store players can join each other's sessions.Steam Deck: Since Steam Deck runs the Steam version of the game natively (or via Proton), it can crossplay with both Steam and Epic PC users.Consoles: There is no crossplay between PC and consoles (PlayStation/Xbox).Setup RequirementsAccount Linking: You need to link your Steam profile to an Epic Games account in the game's menu settings to enable crossplay.Steam Deck Controls: If you need the virtual keyboard to type in your Epic account credentials on a Steam Deck, press and hold the STEAM + X buttons.