As gaming continues to grow as a form of entertainment, more and more people are looking for ways to enjoy their favourite games on their preferred operating systems. Linux is a popular choice for those who want to experience a free and open-source operating system, and it is gaining traction as a gaming platform as well. However, not all distributions are well-suited for an enhanced gaming experience. That’s where this article comes to your help, presenting you with a list and overview of some of the top Linux gaming distributions you can try.
Best Linux gaming distributions
A Linux gaming distribution is a version of Linux that has been optimized for gaming. These distributions come with pre-installed drivers, libraries, and software that are required for gaming, making it easier for users to start playing their favourite games. Let’s get to know the names and give a quick overview of such Linux distros.
1: Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is an operating system based on Linux, created by System76, with a particular focus on gaming. It uses the GNOME desktop environment and is built upon Ubuntu. It is considered one of the best Linux gaming distributions because it comes with essential gaming tools such as Lutris and GameHub pre-installed. Additionally, Pop!_OS has separate ISO files for NVIDIA and AMD systems, making it easy to install and use out of the box.
The distro is also known for its user-friendly interface and active community. It is suitable for beginners who want to get started with Linux gaming and is compatible with the latest hardware.
2: Drauger OS
Drauger OS is a Linux Desktop Gaming OS based on Ubuntu LTS releases but with a customized mainline Linux kernel that prioritizes low latency and a higher scheduling frequency. These optimizations result in a smoother and more responsive gaming experience, with pre-installed software like Steam, Lutris, and DXVK providing easy access to popular games.
Aside from gaming, Drauger OS is also a capable desktop distro with a pre-installed cache of apps and tools for regular computing tasks. Users can enjoy a customized Xfce desktop environment, tutorial guides, and controller support for Xbox and Xbox360, as well as some PlayStation controllers.
With a minimum requirement of 32GB disk space, Drauger OS is a popular option for gamers who prioritize performance and ease of use in their Linux distribution.
3: Ubuntu GamePack
Similar to Drauger OS, however, Ubuntu GamePack distinguishes itself by offering a vast selection of gaming platforms and tools, including Steam, Lutris, and PlayOnLinux. It also offers a limited-time trial of CrossOver, a proprietary compatibility application that utilizes WINE technology to allow users to run Windows applications and games.
Ubuntu GamePack comes with a DOSBox emulator and ScummVM for playing retro adventure and RPGs. Additionally, it offers a suite of enhancements called GameMode, specifically crafted to fine-tune the installation for peak gaming performance.
Additionally, it employs a tailored version of the user-friendly Ubuntu Ubiquity installer, simplifying installation and configuration. This distro also comes with a collection of standard desktop productivity applications, rendering it a competent desktop distribution for gaming enthusiasts.
4: Lakka
Lakka is a lightweight Linux distribution that transforms a computer into a powerful game console, using a range of console emulators under the RetroArch front end. With the ability to emulate a wide variety of consoles, including PlayStation and Xbox, Lakka runs games more smoothly than normal emulators, with most games requiring very little hardware resources.
This operating system provides an array of sophisticated functions, such as multiplayer capabilities, save states, shaders, netplay, rewind features, and compatibility with wireless game controllers. These features make it a great choice for gaming with friends, enhancing the look of games with shaders and allowing users to easily go back in time and correct mistakes with the rewind feature.
5: Batocera.linux
Batocera.linux is a Linux distribution tailored for retro game enthusiasts, offering the ability to play classic games from Atari, Super Nintendo, SEGA, Dreamcast, GameBoy Advance, and many other platforms. The OS does not require installation on your hard drive and can be easily booted from a USB stick, making it a portable solution to play your favourite retro games.
Apart from gaming, Batocera.linux also includes the Kodi Media Center, allowing users to switch to watching movies or TV shows when they get tired of playing games. It should be noted that owning the game files is a prerequisite for playing games on Batocera.linux.
6: ChimeraOS
ChimeraOS is a gaming distribution based on Arch Linux that directly boots into Steam Big Picture Mode, presenting itself as a viable alternative to SteamOS. It includes an extensive assortment of preloaded games and is compatible with other launchers and game stores, such as Epic, Flathub, and GOG. Its most notable attribute is its hassle-free and automatic background updates that do not require any user intervention.
7: Fedora Games Spin
Fedora Games Spin is a Fedora-based distribution designed for gamers, with a wide range of pre-installed games, including popular titles like Extreme Tux Racer, Wesnoth, and Warzone 2100, among others. Unlike other Linux gaming distros, it doesn’t include additional gaming software such as Steam or Wine, but users can install them manually. This makes it a great choice for people who prefer Fedora and want a straightforward gaming experience without additional software clutter.
8: Garuda Linux
Garuda Linux is an Arch Linux-based distribution that offers a rolling release model, allowing users to keep their systems up-to-date with the latest software and drivers. The Gaming Edition of Garuda Linux employs KDE Plasma as its desktop environment and features a user-friendly graphical interface, Garuda Gamer, that simplifies the installation of diverse gaming software and emulators. Additionally, the distribution provides a user-friendly GUI for managing drivers, which is especially useful for gaming.
Conclusion
Linux gaming distributions have come a long way in recent years and now offer a viable alternative to Windows or MacOS for gamers. With improved support for graphics drivers, game launchers, and a vast library of open-source games, Linux has become a top choice for many gaming enthusiasts. Whether you opt for Ubuntu GamePack or Drauger OS, there are several choices available that can suit various requirements.