Tag: Linux Gaming

  • Why Linux is Growing Popular Among Gamers

    Why Linux is Growing Popular Among Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Linux’s gaming market share on Steam has reached 2.89%, showing growth from 2.57% the previous month.
    2. The Steam Deck, a handheld device running SteamOS (a Linux version), is a major factor in increasing Linux’s popularity among gamers.
    3. SteamOS is the most popular Linux distribution among Steam users, accounting for 28% of Linux gamers.
    4. Software improvements, particularly with Proton 10.0, enhance game compatibility and performance on Linux.
    5. While Windows maintains a dominant market share, Linux is gaining traction and becoming a more viable gaming platform.

    Linux, which is an open-source operating system that has been popular with tech lovers, developers, and IT pros, is also attracting gamers now. This change is seen in the recent hardware and software survey from Steam, which indicates that 2.89% of all Steam users are playing games on Linux. Windows still holds a massive market share at 95.23%, but Linux is inching closer to that 3% mark for the first time, showing a growth of 0.32% from the previous month. In comparison, macOS has a share of 1.88%.

    The Rise of Steam Deck

    The main reason for Linux’s popularity among gamers is Valve’s handheld device, the Steam Deck (priced at $475 on Amazon). It operates on SteamOS, a Linux version based on Arch. Linux has distinct benefits for mobile gaming, like extended battery life, reduced resource consumption, and sometimes, better performance when compared to Windows. Among Linux users on Steam, SteamOS is the leading distribution, making up 28%. Other well-liked options include CachyOS (one of the top gaming-oriented distros), Fedora 42, Nobara Linux, Bazzite, and Nitrux.

    Software Improvements

    In addition to hardware, advancements in software are also helping Linux’s rise. With Proton 10.0, the newest update for the Windows compatibility tool, many games now run smoother and have better compatibility on Linux. This makes it easier for newcomers and brings the gaming experience closer to what players expect on Windows. Even though Windows will probably continue to be the top platform for gamers in the near future, the Steam survey highlights a noticeable trend: Linux is no longer just a side option.

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  • EA Cancels Apex Legends Linux Version Over Anti-Cheat Issues

    EA Cancels Apex Legends Linux Version Over Anti-Cheat Issues

    EA has decided to end support for the Linux version of Apex Legends. This means that Steam Deck users will need to install Windows if they want to enjoy the game, a situation that also impacts the rising number of Linux gamers. The company claims this move is aimed at combating cheaters, who they say tend to favor Linux distros rather than Windows. EA shared this information in a post on X:

    Cheating Issues on Linux

    The Linux operating systems’ open nature makes it appealing for cheaters and those who develop cheats. It is true that cheats on Linux are more difficult to detect, and the data indicates a growing trend that demands significant attention from EA’s team, especially considering the relatively small size of the Linux platform. There are even instances where cheats designed for Windows are being used on Linux to make detection more challenging.

    Easy Anti Cheat and Its Implications

    Apex Legends employs Easy Anti Cheat (EAC), which is a service running at the kernel level that identifies unauthorized modifications to the game’s files. Although it might be simpler to bypass this system on Linux, restricting access to an entire platform seems a bit too harsh and almost inept. EA claims that only a limited number of players will be affected, but those individuals are losing access to a game they enjoy along with any in-game skins they previously acquired. It would be best if EA considered providing refunds to those impacted, but there has been no announcement regarding that so far.

    The Future for Apex Legends Players

    With this decision, the future for Linux users who want to play Apex Legends looks bleak. Many gamers feel frustrated that they have to jump through hoops to continue playing a game they love. The community is left hoping for a resolution or at least some compensation for their losses. For now, it seems like the situation is still developing, and players will have to wait to see how EA addresses their concerns.

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