The open-source project d7vk introduces Vulkan support for Direct3D 7 on Linux, enabling older Windows games to function under Wine. This aims to expand backwards compatibility beyond what Valve’s Proton and dxvk currently offer.
Expanding Wine Compatibility
Created by WinterSnowfall, d7vk builds on the established dxvk framework, focusing on older PC games like Sacrifice and Disciples II. While not intended to integrate into the main dxvk line, d7vk promises detailed configuration and game-specific fixes. Performance improvements have been noted in several supported games, with results ranging from good to excellent.
Affected Games and Reach
d7vk supports Direct3D 7 titles including Arx Fatalis, Escape from Monkey Island, and Hitman: Codename 47, as well as numerous lesser-known games. Despite these strides, achieving full compatibility remains a challenge, with WinterSnowfall noting Direct3D 7's difficult API landscape.
As a continuation of efforts to improve Linux gaming, d7vk represents another step in making classic Windows games accessible on modern systems.
