If you’re a gamer who is looking to make the switch to Linux, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s now a growing number of distributions that are specifically designed for gaming.
These distributions offer an optimized and streamlined experience for players, with features like pre-installed games, optimized performance, large communities of users, and compatibility with various hardware. Not sure which one is good; hop on to the list below as we have put down a few of the best distributions for gaming on Linux.
Best Linux Distro for Gaming
Taking into consideration factors such as hardware support, performance, and user experience, below you will read out comprehensive details of a few Linux distros considered best for gaming.
1: Ubuntu
Ubuntu is among the most popular Linux distros globally, with a usage rate of 4%, ranking it behind only macOS and Chrome OS.
This massive popularity has made Ubuntu the go-to Linux distro for gaming, with a wide range of titles readily available straight from the Ubuntu Universe repository. Installing Steam on Ubuntu is as simple as visiting the repository and clicking “install,” offering gamers an experience similar to using the App Store or Windows Store.
Game libraries such as GameHub and Lutris allow you to play Windows games on Linux, offering an even wider selection of games to play on Ubuntu.
The best thing about gaming on Ubuntu is the vibrant and supportive community that surrounds the operating system. As a Ubuntu gamer, you’ll have access to an extensive network of knowledgeable individuals who can help you with any questions or problems you encounter.
2: Linux Mint
With its Windows-like interface, Linux Mint is often considered the best Linux distro for gaming, as it provides an easy-to-use and familiar environment for users who are new to Linux.
Linux Mint is built on the popular Ubuntu Linux distribution, which means it has access to a vast repository of software packages and gaming platforms. Linux Mint makes installing games effortless and seamlessly integrates with Steam for a hassle-free gaming experience.
In addition, Linux Mint is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of hardware, including gaming graphics cards and peripherals, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
3: Fedora
With its smooth animations and easily accessible repositories, Fedora provides an unparalleled gaming experience, making it a popular choice among gamers.
The core of Fedora is its emphasis on easy repository access, providing users with quick and effortless access to the software they need. For instance, the Steam gaming platform is readily available through the RPMFusion community repository, which is easily accessible to Fedora users.
Although it may require a little more research compared to other distributions, the process of finding and downloading games on Fedora is still relatively straightforward. With its vibrant community of users, help is always readily available in case of any issues.
4: Manjaro Linux
While this type of distribution does come with some risk, as there is a possibility of stability issues and the need for troubleshooting, for those who are confident in their abilities to handle such situations, Manjaro Linux can be a solid choice.
In particular, it is a great option for Linux gamers with AMD graphics cards which require the latest Mesa graphics driver, such as to play demanding games like Cyberpunk on Linux. However, it may not be ideal for new Linux users who prefer a more stable and reliable operating system experience.
5: Drauger OS
A gaming-focused Linux distribution based on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, it is designed to provide an easy and accessible platform for gamers and supports both keyboard and mouse as well as controller input.
The distribution comes with pre-installed graphics drivers and optimized software for gaming, making it an ideal choice for those who want to use Linux for gaming.
However, it is important to note that Drauger OS is not meant for everyday use, as it does not include other essential applications for day-to-day activities, such as office suites, video editors, or audio tools. Instead, its focus is solely on providing a high-performance, stable, and compatible environment for gaming.
Conclusion
With its robust performance and versatility, Linux has proven to be a fantastic platform for gaming. However, in order to fully realize its potential and enjoy a seamless gaming experience, it’s important to carefully consider your distribution choice.
The distributions highlighted in this article, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Manjaro, and others, represent some of the top options available for gaming on Linux. Whether you’re seeking a user-friendly interface, a thriving community, or top-notch performance, one of these distributions is sure to meet your requirements.
