What Is The Best Linux For Gaming?

In the past, only Windows PCs were good for video games. Now, Linux users can play too, thanks to tools like Wine and Proton, or even games made especially for Linux. But which Linux system is best for gamers?

There are many different Linux options, each suited for different things. Here are some of the best Linux systems for playing games, from classic emulator games to the latest big-name titles.

Is Linux good for gaming?

Yes! Linux systems generally use fewer resources than Windows, so more power is available for your games. Plus, some Linux systems for gaming are set up perfectly from the start.

What games can you play on Linux?

Almost any Windows game! If a game isn’t made for Linux, you might still be able to play it using Proton, a tool that makes Windows games work on Linux. ProtonDB is a website where people share their experiences using Proton with different games.

The best Linux system for you depends on what kind of games you want to play. Think about how powerful you want the system to be and how well it works with your graphics card.

Two good options for serious gamers are Garuda and Kubuntu. Garuda is designed specifically for gaming and even lets you install gaming programs during setup.

Kubuntu is a different story. It’s not built just for games, but it’s powerful and easy to use. It combines KDE, a popular desktop that lets you change how it looks, with Ubuntu, the most common Linux system. 

This means your hardware is more likely to work well with it, and there are many people online who can help you if you have problems. Plus, it won’t slow down your computer much.

However, Kubuntu has one drawback. Like other Ubuntu versions, it uses Snap packages for apps by default. The company behind Ubuntu says these are safer, but some users find they don’t work well with everything. And Linux is already pretty safe anyway!

To avoid this issue, you could try using Flatpak apps instead. Setting them up might be a little tricky at first, but once you’re done, they’re easier to install than regular programs and cause fewer problems.

Linux Mint is a great choice for gamers switching from Windows. 

First, unlike Ubuntu, Mint offers several desktop options that look similar to Windows, making it familiar for new users.

Second, Mint offers three popular desktop choices: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce. 

These are all known for being easy to use and less demanding on your computer’s resources.

So, if switching to Linux has been holding you back because you’re worried about learning a new system, a gaming distro like Mint can ease the transition.

Pop!_OS: Strong Hardware Support

Pop!_OS might not be as well-known, but it’s backed by System76, a company that builds Linux computers. They offer a range of models, from basic to powerful ones for gaming.

While you can install Pop!_OS on any computer, the hardware support won’t be guaranteed like it is on System76 machines.

Retro Gaming Champs: Batocera, Lakka, and RetroPie

Forget bulky arcade machines! Play classic games with Batocera, Lakka, or RetroPie. These Linux systems are built specifically for retro titles and emulators.

Batocera has a cool interface that looks like old consoles, with themes for everyone. Lakka is more simple, like a mix of PS3 and Android. RetroPie uses text menus, perfect for both TVs and small screens like handheld consoles (think Raspberry Pi projects!).

All three come with many emulators pre-installed, so just add your games and start playing! They also work well with most controllers.