Steam windows games on linux

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Today, Valve released a new beta version of Steam Play which includes a technology called “Proton”. Proton is a modified distribution of Wine that enables you to run Windows games on Linux, and it’s integrated directly inside Steam itself, which will enable you to run all Windows-only Steam games natively on Linux.

This is a huge deal, because thousands of users around the world were prevented before from fully switching to Linux due to the limitations of the gaming experience on Linux. Some big titles were never ported to Linux and remained Windows-only, and those which were ported had many glitches. But today, you can start expecting a pure gaming experience on Linux just like on Windows. Valve said it will make sure all games on the store will be eventually supported under Steam Play for Linux.

Now, in this tutorial, we’ll explain how to enable Steam Play with Proton, how to adjust its preferences and how to debug non-working games. We’ll also run Age of Empires 2 HD on Linux as an example test case.

Enabling Steam Play on Linux

To do this, open your Steam settings, and go to Steam Play, and enable the checkbox “Enable Steam Play for all other titles”:

Картинка с сайта: fosspost.org

You’ll be required to restart Steam.

Now, you can head to the Steam store and try to run any Windows game you would like and see your luck. In its announcement, Valve mentioned some titles to be working fully under Steam Play, but even if your game is not among these, you may still try installing and running it to see what happens. Valve plans on reviewing the entire Steam catalog to make it Steam Play compatible, but this process may take time, so it’s better that you try your luck now.

You’ll find the install button now available on your previous Windows-only games, click it to start installing:

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Enabling Proton Configuration File & Logs

If you head to HOME/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Proton\ 3.7/, you’ll find the Proton’s configuration files. There’s a file with the name user_settings_sample.py. Change its name to user_settings.py and then open the file in a text editor.

This file the configuration file for Proton, which is the modified Wine distribution shipped inside Steam itself. You can tweak many stuff from there.

Here are the contents of the file by default:

#!/usr/bin/python2.7

#to enable these settings, name this file "user_settings.py"

user_settings = {
    #logs are saved to $HOME/steam-$STEAM_APP_ID.log, overwriting any previous log with that name
    "WINEDEBUG": "+timestamp,+pid,+tid,+seh,+debugstr,+module",

    "DXVK_LOG_LEVEL": "info",

    #Enable DXVK's HUD
#    "DXVK_HUD": "devinfo,fps",

    #Use wined3d for d3d11 instead of dxvk
#    "PROTON_USE_WINED3D11": "1",

    #Disable d3d11 entirely
#    "PROTON_NO_D3D11": "1",

    #Disable in-process synchronization primitives
#    "PROTON_NO_ESYNC": "1",
}

In order to get more information about any possible game crash, change "DXVK_LOG_LEVEL" to "debug" and save the file and exit. If you would like to test stuff, you may try enabling other options in the file such as disabling D3D11 or enabling DXVK’s HUD by simply removing the # symbol from the beginning of the line. Don’t forget to restart Steam after any change to the file.

Now, whenever you try to install a Windows-only game on your Linux client and if that game crashes, you’ll find a log file named something like steam-221380.log in your home directory. This log file contains all the information associated with that game while it was trying to run and why it crashed. From there you can simply Google the error message until you find the solution.

What most people don’t realize while trying to run Windows games via Steam Play is that most of these issues may not be caused your local machine or Linux system. Even Windows users on a lot of different hardware face many bugs and issues while trying to run games. So if a game doesn’t work with you via Proton on Steam Play, just check the forums or online discussions for other people who may have faced the same issue.

You should try running your favorite games on Linux from now, there’s no need to wait.

Example Use Case: Age of Empires 2 HD

Картинка с сайта: fosspost.org

The iconic Age of Empires 2 is one of the best strategy games out there. I was happy to have it on Windows but sadly it doesn’t have a Linux version. So I simply wasn’t able to play it when I detached Windows from my machine.

After installing the game on my Linux machine (Thinkpad x260 with Linux Mint 19) using Steam Play, the game simply crashed on boot. Googling the error message in the log file led to this discussion on Steam, which indeed gives a working solution:

1. Add NoStartUp in launch options.
2. Remove Launcher.exe from your game files.
3. Rename AoK HD.exe into Launcher.exe.
4. Start the game from Steam.

You may also notice that the game is stuck on subscriptions validation.. Just close the game and start it again, and Voala! The game is working perfectly:

Картинка с сайта: fosspost.org

And you’ll notice that your previous profile, saved games and any other settings are all saved from your Windows machine. It’s just exactly as if you were running it on Windows. There are no lags or glitches in the gameplay.

Conclusion

Proton’s integration via Steam Play should allow you to run tons of top-tier games on your Linux machine natively. The technology right now is still in beta stage and it’s too early to judge on it from now, but it will be a game changing for a lot of people. Many gamers will now be able to detach Windows fully and switch to Linux.

Valve made huge contributions to Linux gaming. Proton contains a lot of improvements and patches which do enhance the gaming experience better than just running it on a plain Wine. Many of these patches are also shared to the upstream to enhance the gaming experience for other Wine users too.

If you would like to follow the latest news and development of Steam Play & Proton, keep in touch with the Steam for Linux community. Also follow the issues page on Proton. Additionally, there’s a user-list of tested games on Steam Play beside notes on how it went.

Gaming on Linux has come a long way, and if you’re itching to play your favorite Windows Steam games on your Linux machine, you’re in luck. The secret is using Steam’s Proton, a compatibility layer designed to make this process smooth and straightforward. Proton allows us to access a universe of Windows-only titles without ditching our beloved Linux operating system.

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We’ve personally taken on the challenge of navigating this compatibility frontier. From RPGs to first-person shooters, Proton has consistently impressed us. What stands out is its seamless integration into the Steam client; just enabling a couple of options and boom – we’re off to the races. The best part? We no longer have to dual-boot or keep a separate Windows PC around just for gaming.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about toggling a few settings and finding our once Windows-exclusive library suddenly filled with playable gems. It’s like opening a treasure chest that we’ve been walking past every day. So, if you’re a Linux user yearning for more game options, dive in with us – let’s explore how simple and effective this gaming transformation is!

Optimizing Performance for Linux Gaming

Ensuring top-notch performance when playing Windows Steam games on Linux involves tweaking Proton settings and selecting the right Linux distribution for optimized stability and updates.

Tweaking Proton Settings

Proton, a compatibility layer from Steam, lets us run Windows games on Linux smoothly. Fine-tuning Proton settings can significantly boost performance.

First, activate Proton in Steam by navigating to Steam > Settings > Steam Play and enabling it for supported or all titles. This opens a world of gaming opportunities.

Adjust Proton launch options. Adding parameters like PROTON_USE_WINED3D=1 %command% or PROTON_USE_DXVK=1 %command% can enhance game compatibility and performance.

DXVK and Vulkan are crucial. DXVK translates DirectX 11/12 calls to Vulkan, providing a performance boost. Ensure both are updated for maximum efficiency.

Troubleshooting graphics issues often involves switching between Proton versions. Use Steam’s Compatibility Tool under game properties to test different versions.

Choosing the Right Linux Distribution

The choice of Linux distribution (distro) impacts gaming performance and ease of use. Not all distros handle gaming equally well.

Ubuntu and its derivatives like Linux Mint and Pop!_OS are popular for their user-friendliness and stability. They receive frequent updates, providing a stable gaming environment.

For advanced users, Arch Linux offers cutting-edge software but requires more setup. Manjaro—an Arch-based distro—strikes a balance between up-to-date software and user-friendliness.

Fedora provides a good balance of stability and newer software. Debian is known for its rock-solid stability but may require more work to set up for gaming.

Our choice of distro should balance performance, updates, and stability to ensure the best gaming experience.

Understanding Steam Play and Proton

Steam Play and Proton are essential tools allowing us to run Windows games on Linux. We’ll look at compatibility and user ratings, and how to enable and use Steam Play.

Compatibility and User Ratings

Steam Play’s backbone is Proton, a Windows compatibility layer developed by Valve. It’s based on Wine and helps us play Windows-exclusive games on Linux. Compatibility varies:

• Platinum: Runs flawlessly
• Gold: Minor tweaks needed
• Silver: Playable but with issues
• Bronze: Significant issues
• Borked: Doesn’t run

To check which games work, ProtonDB provides user-submitted ratings and tweaks. We often find updates that improve game compatibility. For titles with native Linux support, it’s best to use them directly.

Enabling and Using Steam Play

To start:

1. Open Steam and go to Settings.
2. In the left panel, click Steam Play.
3. Enable Steam Play for supported titles to automatically run compatible games.
4. To experiment, enable Steam Play for all titles. This allows us to try various Windows games, including those not officially supported.

Using Proton Experimental can also yield better results, as it’s updated more frequently. Simply select it as the compatibility tool in a game’s properties to see if performance improves.

Running these steps ensures we can enjoy a vast library of games without leaving our preferred Linux distributions. By utilizing the Steam Play feature, we bridge the gap between operating systems and expand our gaming options.

The Ecosystem of Linux Gaming Software

Playing Windows games on Linux has come a long way thanks to a diverse ecosystem of software tools and native alternatives. These tools make it possible to run Windows-only games effectively and provide other options for a seamless gaming experience.

Emulation and Compatibility Tools

We have a plethora of tools at our disposal to make Windows games work on Linux. Wine is one of the most crucial, serving as the backbone for compatibility. It essentially translates Windows system calls into equivalent POSIX calls, and while it’s not perfect, its utility is monumental.

Proton, a modified version of Wine by Valve, allows us to run many Windows-only games directly from Steam. It’s incorporated in Steam Play and comes with Direct3D-to-Vulkan translation via VKD3D-Proton, enhancing performance and compatibility.

For managing and installing these compatibility layers, Lutris and Bottles are invaluable. They simplify the setup process and even provide tailored configurations for a variety of games. These tools ensure we spend less time troubleshooting and more time playing.

Linux Alternatives to Windows Games

Not every game needs to be wrangled through emulation. Numerous high-quality native Linux games are available, minimizing compatibility headaches. Humble Bundle and GOG often feature Linux-friendly titles. Platforms like Flathub and Flatpak also host a variety of native games, simplifying installation and updates.

Additionally, using platforms like Heroic Games Launcher makes it easy to access Epic Games Store titles that run well on Linux. Having these native options reduces our dependence on compatibility tools, offering a more straightforward gaming experience.

Advanced Topics in Linux Gaming

In this section, we will explore the effects of the Steam Deck on Linux gaming and the thriving Linux gaming community.

Steam Deck’s Impact on Linux Gaming

The Steam Deck has revolutionized the way we experience gaming on Linux. It’s a handheld gaming PC that runs SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system. This device brings robust support for a vast library of Windows games via Proton, eliminating traditional compatibility issues that Linux gamers face.

The performance of PC games on the Steam Deck is quite impressive. Frequent updates from Valve ensure that more titles become playable and the existing games get performance boosts. Using NTFS file systems, we can even access external drives without any hitch, making it easier to manage our game libraries.

Proton Next is another exciting development linked with the Steam Deck. It’s a specialized version of Proton optimized for recent releases, granting even broader support and performance improvements. We can expect this feature to only get better with time, enhancing the gaming experience continually.

The Linux gaming community is vibrant and supportive. From forums to Discord servers, we find a wealth of knowledge and a group of people ready to assist with any gaming issues. Our community regularly shares tips on optimizing game performance, troubleshooting, and discovering new titles that work seamlessly on Linux.

One of the biggest draws for Linux gamers is the spirit of collaboration. We see users constantly updating each other on new developments, be it patches or compatibility tweaks. This pooling of knowledge ensures that everyone benefits from the collective support.

Forums are especially great for in-depth discussions and problem-solving. Whether it’s tweaking Wine settings or configuring Proton, there’s always someone who has been through the same issue and is ready to help. This cohesion not only improves individual gaming experiences but also strengthens our collective expertise in handling cross-platform challenges like running Windows games on Linux.

Navigating the world of gaming on Linux can be like cracking open a puzzle box. With the right tools and a sprinkle of patience, playing Windows Steam games on Linux is not only possible but surprisingly straightforward.

Using Steam’s Proton, we can run Windows games on Linux perfectly well without dual-booting or constantly switching machines. This revelation has been a game-changer for many of us who enjoy the stability and open-source nature of Linux, yet don’t want to miss out on the hottest titles available only for Windows.

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Picture this: kicking back on a Saturday afternoon, fired up our favorite Linux distro, and launching a game that was once an elusive Windows-only gem. Proton, an ingenious feature from Steam, makes this all possible. It acts like a compatibility layer between the Windows game and the Linux operating system. And guess what?

All it takes is a few clicks in the Steam settings, and we’re up and running, battling virtual enemies or exploring new worlds, with little difference from a native setup.

In our journey to make gaming smoother on Linux, exploring Steam’s Proton has been like finding a hidden portal. For those ready to dive deeper into this magical world, there’s plenty to discover about optimizing settings and experimenting with different games.

Preparing Your Linux System for Steam

Setting up Linux to play Windows Steam games involves making some strategic choices and tweaks. We need to ensure the right Linux distribution is installed, set up Wine, and enable Steam Play for compatibility.

Choosing the Right Linux Distribution

When choosing a Linux distribution for gaming, compatibility and ease of use are paramount. Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Pop!_OS are popular choices due to their user-friendliness and strong community support.

For those favoring a bit more control and cutting-edge software, distributions like Fedora or elementary OS can be exciting alternatives. Yet, selecting a distribution with good support for graphics drivers is a must—speedy gaming depends on it.

We don’t need fancy bells and whistles, just a stable platform. Also, keeping systems updated frequently will ensure we have the latest driver versions and security patches.

Installing Wine and Related Packages

Wine is like a magical bridge allowing us to run Windows applications on Linux systems. First things first: install Wine from your distribution’s package manager. For example, on Ubuntu, we can open the Terminal and run sudo apt install wine.

Remember that some games also require additional packages, like Winetricks, for particular game dependencies. Check the compatibility and system requirements of your games before the installation; getting these packages early can make the journey smoother.

And let’s not forget Proton, the Steam-integrated tool that often works in tandem with Wine to improve game compatibility. By prepping with Wine, we’re laying the groundwork for a smooth gaming experience.

Enabling Steam Play on Steam

To make Windows games run on Linux via Steam, enabling Steam Play is essential. Begin by launching Steam and navigating to Settings. There, find and select Steam Play from the menu.

We have two choices: Enable Steam Play for supported titles—this lets us run games officially compatible with Proton. For those feeling adventurous, Enable Steam Play for all titles opens the gates to a wider range of games, though some might require a bit of tweaking.

By adjusting these settings, we maximize our potential gaming library on Linux and open up countless hours of entertainment. Rejoice, dear gamers, for now, our Linux box is ready for action!

Understanding Steam’s Proton Compatibility Layer

As we explore the versatility of Proton, it’s crucial to grasp its essential role in Linux gaming. This layer, championed by Steam and developed by Valve, bridges the gap between Windows and Linux platforms, improving both compatibility and performance.

How Proton Works

Proton acts as a compatibility layer akin to a universal translator for games. It leverages technologies like Wine, a comprehensive tool that interprets Windows system calls into something Linux can understand.

To boost gaming efficiency, Proton integrates components like DXVK for converting DirectX to Vulkan, and vkd3d-proton for Direct3D 12. This partnership ensures smoother graphics rendering. While Proton is packed with technical wizardry, most users just need to install it via Steam, without diving deep into configurations.

Improving Game Performance with Proton

Game performance can vary, but Proton’s adaptability is a game changer. By fine-tuning settings, such as choosing specific Proton versions or configuring launch options, we enhance gameplay.

Performance tools like ProtonDB offer community-driven data on what settings best optimize games. Experimental builds, like Proton Experimental, provide cutting-edge fixes and support for newer titles. Balancing advanced settings and checking forums can offer the best experience.

Efficiency in this compatibility dance isn’t guaranteed, but most Steam titles offer reasonable outcomes, some performing remarkably well on Linux. This blend of technology and community insight optimizes the experience.

Updating Proton and Managing Versions

Keeping Proton updated is vital to maintain compatibility and performance. As Valve continually rolls out updates, Steam checks and installs these automatically. Still, users can select from Proton versions to suit specific needs or experiment with beta versions.

Managing these updates is seamless through the Steam client, under the Steam Play settings. More experimental or newer games may benefit from the latest features found in the latest updates or beta versions.

This proactive approach enables us to stay aligned with Steam’s latest improvements, ensuring our gaming remains robust and enjoyable on Linux. Regularly engaging with Steam’s Linux Runtime community threads can also offer insights into troubleshooting and enhancements.

Optimizing Gaming Experience on Linux

To get the best performance from our favorite Windows Steam games on Linux, we can tweak a few settings and utilize alternative tools. From adjusting launch options to seeking help from the community, there’s a lot we can do to enhance our gaming adventures.

Fine-Tuning Steam Launch Options

One way we can boost performance is by customizing Steam launch options. By editing the properties of the game through our Steam library, we can use command-line arguments to enhance the way games run. These arguments might adjust graphics settings or other performance-related parameters without needing to dig into in-game settings.

For instance, we might use commands like -novid to skip intro videos, or -high to prioritize CPU resources for our game. Each game might benefit from different settings, so testing various configurations will be key.

Using Alternative Compatibility Tools

Sometimes Proton, Steam’s default compatibility layer, may not suffice. This is where tools like Lutris, Wine, and Bottles come into play. We can test these alternatives to see which one suits our game best.

Lutris helps manage games and offers custom Wine configurations that might be more compatible. Meanwhile, Bottles provides a user-friendly interface to run Windows apps, optimizing the experience for each game individually. Trying different tools like these can be like finding the right key for a lock.

Leveraging Community Support and Resources

Linux gaming has a robust community where information and support are just a few clicks away. Resources like ProtonDB offer user-submitted ratings and tips to improve game compatibility. Forums, Reddit threads, and Flathub are bustling with experienced gamers eager to share advice.

Exploring Gaming Beyond Steam on Linux

While Steam is a great platform for playing Windows games on Linux, there are other methods and tools available, allowing us to expand our gaming experience. Let’s explore how we can enjoy non-Steam Windows games, and discover various emulators and platforms designed for Linux gamers.

Playing Non-Steam Windows Games on Linux

We’ve all had that itch to play a Windows game that’s not available on Steam. Enter Wine, a powerful tool that allows us to run Windows applications on Linux. Although setting up Wine can sometimes feel like navigating a maze, the rewards are worth it.

Another option we have is Lutris, a gaming client that supports managing and launching games from various sources, including GOG and Epic Games. Lutris simplifies installation processes, often requiring just a few clicks. Forget about jumping through hoops!

ProtonDB is a fantastic resource to check game compatibility. This community-driven database provides us with ratings for numerous games, helping decide which will work seamlessly.

Let’s not forget about GOG! With freely downloadable, DRM-free titles, this platform offers many games that run smoothly on Linux, either natively or through tools like Wine and Lutris.

Emulators and Other Gaming Platforms

When nostalgia calls, emulators answer. Our Linux systems can emulate classic consoles, bringing back the golden age of gaming via platforms like RetroArch and Dolphin.

These emulators support a variety of consoles, ranging from NES to PlayStation.

Moreover, platforms like Itch.io cater to indie enthusiasts, offering a diverse collection of games often with native Linux support.

It’s always refreshing to discover new titles, indie gems, and innovative experiences.