Linux has made significant strides in gaming, with a recent report from Boiling Steam indicating that nearly 90% of Windows games now run on the platform. This improvement highlights the success of initiatives like Valve's SteamOS, especially on devices such as the Steam Deck.
Windows Games on Linux
ProtonDB data shows that a large percentage of Windows games launched on Linux are compatible, with ranks assigned as Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze to denote their performance levels. The Steam Deck Verified program further confirms the compatibility of many games, despite some inconsistencies. Silent Hill 2, for example, works on Linux devices such as the Steam Deck, despite being unsupported by Steam Deck Verified.
Anti-Cheat Systems Pose Challenges
Despite the compatibility progress, games with kernel-level anti-cheat systems remain a significant hurdle for Linux users. Popular multiplayer games using systems like Activision's Ricochet and EA's Javelin are particularly affected, as these anti-cheat solutions are not typically supported on Linux. Developers have occasionally achieved compatibility for these systems, but broader support from major publishers is still lacking. The need for deeper system access by these anti-cheat solutions often leads to security risks and performance issues, further complicating their functionality on Linux.
The ongoing growth of Linux in gaming, particularly with SteamOS on handhelds and PCs, could eventually push publishers to address these anti-cheat limitations, enabling more games for Linux users.
