Valve's SteamOS has developed into a significant competitor to Windows for PC gaming, largely through enhancements in compatibility and performance. Originally launched in 2013, SteamOS's growth has been bolstered by the introduction of Proton in 2018, a vital compatibility layer enabling many Windows games to function on Linux.
Compatibility and Growth
Proton has steadily improved since its release, allowing a broader range of games to operate smoothly on SteamOS. This progress was further accelerated by the release of the Steam Deck in 2022, which required efficient game performance via Proton. Valve's investment in more than 100 open-source developers for Proton and associated projects underscores its commitment to this ecosystem.
Despite certain advantages Windows has with anti-cheat and kernel-level protections, Proton supports numerous anti-cheat systems. Some gamers even prefer the reduced kernel access offered by Linux. This may signal a shift in user preference, challenging Microsoft's long-held dominance.
Future and Market Implications
Valve is also preparing SteamOS for ARM hardware by utilizing the Fex emulator, which aims to run x86 Windows games on ARM Linux devices. With Steam hardware updates anticipated by 2026, and the maturation of desktop Linux environments, SteamOS is strengthening its position as a viable gaming platform.
These advancements suggest a meaningful shift in the PC gaming landscape, potentially reducing Microsoft's traditional advantages and reshaping consumer choices in the long term.
