Several games have been available on Linux for quite a long time, but previously, it was not easy to configure all the drivers and play games on Linux. Recently, it has become easy to play games on Linux. Several Linux distributions have also come on the market to give you a reliable gaming experience on Linux. Some of these Linux distributions are made for the sole purpose of gaming. So, they have several gaming-related features built into the OS. All these Linux distros also come with an easy-to-use UI, so you can easily operate them even if you have never worked with Linux in the past. Have a look at this list of the best Linux Distributions For Gaming.
Also see: Best Android Emulators for Linux
While looking for a good Linux distro for gaming, you should always check if it supports popular graphics card drivers out of the box. It is not easy to install these drivers manually, and it requires pro-level Linux knowledge. You should also check for the update frequency. If the Linux distro comes with PlayOnLinux, Wine, Steam, and other emulators, it becomes even better. Now, have a look at the list of the best Linux distros for gaming.
Best Linux Distributions for Gaming
1. SteamOS
Base: Debian 8 (codenamed Debian Jessie)
Desktop Environment: GNOME, optimized for easy access with Keyboard and Joystick.
Package Format: deb
You can already guess the developer of the game by its name. SteamOS has been developed by Valve Corp. (the creator of Steam). So this Linux distribution has been designed to play games from the Steam store. So, you have access to several popular games. It supports several graphics cards and joysticks/gamepads out of the box. Steam OS is mainly for gaming, so it lacks several notable features that an OS should come with. For example, it lacks a file manager or image viewer. However, you have access to the GNOME desktop environment to install other software.
System Requirements
- Processor: Intel or AMD 64-bit capable processor
- Memory: 4GB or more RAM
- Hard Drive: 200GB or larger disk
- Video Card: NVIDIA graphics card, AMD graphics card (RADEON 8500 and later), Intel graphics
- Additional: USB port for installation
- UEFI Firmware (recommended)
SteamOS is good for those who play games available in the Steam Library. If you play games that are not part of the Steam library, this Linux distro is not for you.
2. Ubuntu GamePack
Base: Ubuntu
Desktop Environment: Unity
Package Format: deb
Ubuntu GamePack is also one of the best gaming distros, where you have more than 6000 games available to play. This distro aims to fill the gap in game availability between Linux and Windows. You don’t get any game out of the box, but you can access games available on several platforms, including Linux, Steam, Windows, and consoles. This OS comes with Steam client, Lutris, Wine, and PlayOnLinux pre-installed. There are several tools for running games and applications made for Windows. These tools include PlayOnLinux, Wine, CrossOver, and DOSBox. It also supports Adobe Flash and Oracle Java. So you can play online games that run on the browser.
System requirements
- 2 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 2 GB system memory
- 25 GB of free hard drive space
- Either a DVD drive or a USB port is required for the installer media
- Internet access is required for online gaming systems such as Steam
3. Game Drift Linux
Base: Ubuntu
Desktop Environment: MATE
Package Format: deb
Game Drift Linux is also a Linux distro optimized to offer a good gaming experience on the Linux platform. This OS supports several popular Windows games out of the box. There’s also a native game store filled with several open-source and commercial high-quality Linux games. You can download or purchase any game and get a one-click installation. It features CrossOver technology for running Windows games, and you have more than 1200 Windows games already available to play on this OS.
System requirements
- Processor: 1-2 GHz processor (32 or 64 bit)
- Memory: 1-2 GB memory
- Hard Drive: 4 GB hard disk drive for Game Drift Linux (excluding games)
- Video Card: ATI, Nvidia, or Intel graphics adapter
- Additional: LAN/Internet
4. Fedora Games Spin
Base: Fedora
Desktop Environment: Xfce
Package Format: RPM
Fedora Games Spin is also one of the best Linux distros for gaming. This OS comes with thousands of Linux games, including first-person shooters, strategy games, and Puzzle games. You can install Steam client, Wine, or PlayOnLinux to install games and play on this OS. It also comes with some games preinstalled, but you need additional data to be downloaded before playing. It also doesn’t come with drivers needed for gaming. So it requires a bit more expertise to start playing games on this OS.
5. mGAMe
Base: Manjaro
Desktop Environment: Xfce
mGAMe, also known as Manjaro Gaming, is a Linux distro designed for gamers. This OS comes with all necessary drivers for popular graphics cards and also some tweaks for the optimal gaming experience. This OS also comes with several software needed by gamers. This software include video editors, screen recorders, screenshot tools, and chat tools. It also includes a wide range of console emulators.
6. Drauger OS
Base: Ubuntu LTS
Desktop Environment: Xfce
Drauger OS is another good Linux Desktop Gaming OS. Drauger OS is based on Ubuntu LTS releases and uses the mainline Linux kernel. For improved gaming experiences, developers have compiled the kernel with low latency enabled. It improves frame rates, reduces screen tearing, and offers better performance in gameplay. Drauger OS uses a customized Xfce desktop environment and installs Steam Client. This OS also supports most Xbox and Xbox360 controllers, along with some PlayStation controllers. It also brings several apps and tools to boost the gaming experience.
Minimum system requirements
- CPU: Dual-Core, 1.8GHz, 64-bit processor
- RAM: 1 GB
- Storage: 16 GB
- Graphics Processor: Integrated
- Screen Resolution: 1024×768 at 60Hz
- External Ports: 1 Port for Display (HDMI / DisplayPort / VGA / DVI), 2 USB Ports for Installation USB Drive and Keyboard (Mouse optional, but recommended)
Wrap Up
If you do not want to install Windows, but still want a good gaming experience, you can check this list of best Linux distributions For Gaming. These Linux distros come with necessary drivers for the different graphics cards, tools needed by gamers, and game stores to install games. If you just play games on Steam, SteamOS is good. The company is also trying to make SteamOS an OS for entertainment by including streaming apps. Other Linux distros available on this list are also good.
There are several Linux distributions for gaming. The best one for a person depends on the kinds of games he/she play. If you play most games on Steam, you can try SteamOS. Game Drift Linux is another good Linux distribution for gaming.
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