john tanko
Windows has ruled the gaming landscape for many years now, but Linux has worked to slowly carve out a foothold over the past couple of years thanks to an improved compatibility layer, dedicated support for games and, arguably the biggest catalyst both for Linux and [gaming] as a whole, the Steam Deck. But is the Steam Deck actually the ideal gaming package for Linux fans? Let’s take a look at how Linux games run, how to get Windows games running on Linux, and why this device is a real game-changer for open-source gaming.
Why the Steam Deck is a Game-Changer for Linux
Valve’s Steam Deck is a handheld gaming PC running SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system. In stark contrast with traditional Linux gaming setups, which require all kinds of tweaks and shenanigans to run games, SteamOS makes Linux gaming seamless. Thanks to Proton, Valve’s compatibility layer, the Steam Deck now runs thousands of Windows games on Linux without any manual configuration.
Here’s a great Steam Deck oled review. You can check my full guide if you want more details."
Steam Deck for Linux Gamers: 5 Major Features
- Full Proton Compatibility – Run almost all Windows games easily on Linux.
- SteamOS 3.0 – An OS based on Linux, designed for gaming.
- GOG & Other Platforms Access – You can also play GOG games on Linux and other third-party stores besides Steam.
- Desktop Mode — Use your Steam Deck as a fully functional Linux PC.
- Customizability – You can install various Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Pop! _MORE OR_OS, or Arch Linux, for a more tailored experience.
Best Games on Linux for the Steam Deck
One of the biggest issues for changing gamers into Linux users is the problem of games. Well, thankfully Linux now supports many games, from AAA to indie and retro classics. Here are some of the best games on Linux, which absolutely shine on the Steam Deck:
Top Linux Games for Steam Deck
- Elden Ring – Works superbly with Proton.
- Cyberpunk 2077 – Surprisingly well optimized on Linux via Steam Deck.
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Excellent perf with Proton GE.
- Hollow Knight – A native Linux game that runs wonderfully.
- Hades – Another of the best roguelike games, fully supported on Linux.
- Counter-Strike: Global Offensive – Native Linux support and a great FPS.
- No Man’s Sky – Vulkan support means it works great on the Deck
How to Play Windows Games on Linux
One of the primary pain points for Linux gamers over the ages has long been Windows-only games. Thanks to the Steam Deck, and Proton, this process is more straightforward than ever. Here’s
how you can run Windows games on Linux:
Running Windows Games with Proton
- Enable Steam Play – Inside Steam go to Settings > Steam Play and tick the box to allow Proton for all games.
- Run a Windows Game – Choose a game and run it; Steam handles Proton configuration automatically.
- Adjust Your Proton Settings (If Necessary) – Certain video games require specific Proton versions (Proton GE) or launch parameters.
Alternative Methods
- Lutris – A gaming platform that helps to install games from Steam, GOG and Epic Games.
- Wine & DXVK — Windows applications support for Linux.
- Bottles – An easy to use GUI over Wine installations.
Can You Play Games on Linux Without Steam?
Absolutely! It’s true that Steam has made Linux gaming much more viable, but it is by no means the only game in town. So here’s how to game on Linux — sans Steam:
- GOG (Good Old Games) – Using Lutris or Heroic Games Launcher to download and play DRM free GOG games on Linux.
- - Itch. io – Marketplace for indie games with a good Linux support.
- - Native Linux Games – 0 A.D., SuperTuxKart, and Xonotic are completely open-source.
- - Emulators – Use Dolphin, RetroArch, and PPSSPP to play classic console games.
Common Questions from Linux Gamers
Is it possible to install Windows on the Steam Deck?
Yes! The Steam Deck can dual-boot, so you can install Windows next to SteamOS. The only shortcoming is that Windows gaming performance is not that much optimized compared to Linux.
Does all Steam games support Linux?
Not all, but a majority are! With Proton, more than 80% of Steam’s most-played titles run on Linux. ProtonDB is where you can confirm compatibility. com.
How well do Linux games run compared to Windows?
Many native Linux games run as well as or better than their Windows brethren. That said, some Proton-based Windows games may experience a slight drop in performance.
How can I know if a game runs on Linux?
Visit ProtonDB. com or Steam Deck Verified lists; finding out whether a game runs well on Linux.
Are there games where I can play with people on Linux?
Yes! The vast majority of multiplayer games work better than expected natively in Linux, so much so that the only exception is that Game Anti-Cheat software such as Easy Anti-Cheat and BattlEye does block some games.
Conclusion: Steam Deck & Linux Make Perfect Match?
The Steam Deck has certainly been one of the biggest breakthroughs in Linux gaming. It offers an optimized and hassle-free way to play Windows games on Linux, GOG game support and the freedom of an open-source platform. There’s always room for improvement, but gaming on Linux has never been better—and the Steam Deck is at the forefront of this revolution.
You can also check some of the best pc that can play high graphics games.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore Linux user, the Steam Deck shows that yes, you can game on Linux — and do it remarkably well.
