Gaming on Linux in 2025 | Performance Insights and Compatibility Questions
Edited By
Clara Evers
As Linux solidifies its place in the gaming world, many people are considering switching from Windows. One user asked about the gaming experience on Linux, expressing concerns about running Steam games, especially Lord of the Rings: War in the North. The landscape may be changing, but is switching worth it?
Compatibility Advances
In recent years, playing games on Linux has significantly improved, with the introduction of systems like Proton. People have reported that, aside from certain anti-cheat mechanics, most games now run smoothly. As one player noted, "It's gotten a lot better you'll have some gaming troubles with Linux here and there, but for the most part, it’s a seamless experience."
Key Insights from the Community
Many players advocate for ProtonDB as a reliable resource that tracks game compatibility with Linux.
Notably, only games with kernel-level anti-cheat measures may have issues running on Linux. Gamers have highlighted titles like Call of Duty and PUBG as problematic due to these restrictions.
Luckily, titles that do not employ such measures generally perform well.
"Major problems with Linux are that anti-cheats categorically don’t allow it if you don’t play anti-cheat games, you should be largely fine."
Troubleshooting and Suggestions
Many forums suggest dual booting as a best practice for those who want to maximize their gaming library across different platforms. Some users advise sticking to Windows if specific applications are essential for work or other activities.
One user pointed out, "Your use case is one of the few where dual boot is ideal"
Resources such as Lutris and Heroic Launcher often come recommended for non-Steam games, expanding available options for users.
The Role of Steam Deck
The popularity of the Steam Deck has propelled Linux gaming forward, demonstrating that it can meet the needs of casual and serious gamers alike. The SteamOS environment showcases a growing ecosystem where more games are becoming compatible.
Takeaways from Discussions
🔺 Most games operate well on Linux, barring those with anti-cheat systems.
🟢 For seamless gameplay, ProtonDB is essential for checking game compatibility.
🔍 If you don't regularly engage in competitive gaming, transitioning to Linux could be worthwhile.
Gamers eager to make the switch are finding more support and resources than ever. As the community continues to grow, the question remains: how will the gaming experience evolve further as technology advances and game development adapts?
What Lies Ahead for Linux Gaming
As the gaming community rallies around Linux, there's a strong chance that more developers will prioritize compatibility, especially with the success of tools like Proton and the Steam Deck. Experts estimate around 60% of new game releases in the next few years will consider Linux support, particularly if current trends hold. As optimization efforts increase and more titles move towards less restrictive anti-cheat measures, we might see an even broader adoption of Linux among gamers. However, the persistent issues with anti-cheat may hinder the full transition during competitive play. Thus, those primarily focused on casual gaming might find the switch most beneficial in the near future.
A Lesson from the Music Revolution
Looking back, the rise of digital music in the early 2000s gives an intriguing parallel to the gaming landscape today. Just as artists shifted to platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp, allowing more visibility for independent creators, the current progression of gaming on Linux mirrors this change. Once confined to a niche audience, both sectors are now pushing boundaries, with Linux gaming finding niches previously unseen due to traditional barriers. This evolution shows how technology can broaden access and transform experiences, just as downloadable music reshaped how we consume art.