Long gone are the days when gaming on Linux was an experience. Thanks to the development of Linux distributions designed to enhance gaming performance, the limitations of using Linux as a gaming platform have significantly diminished. Surprisingly, Linux often underestimated for its gaming capabilities, has emerged as a sought-after platform that optimizes hardware settings for a high-performance gaming experience.
1. Ubuntu Gamepack
Ubuntu Gamepack includes gaming applications that come pre-installed. It boasts a user interface, making it convenient for gamers new to Linux. Additionally, it leverages the Vulkan API to enhance display performance by utilizing the capabilities of the GPU.
2. Fedora Games Spin
Fedora is renowned globally for its rock-solid stability and robust security features. Though the Games Spin variant is for gamers, it is still the preferred option for pros. It gives an immersive and delightful gaming experience. With Fedora’s trusted reputation for stability and security, gamers can have peace of mind while indulging in their favorite games.
3. Manjaro Gaming Edition
For gamers seeking performance and a pleasing user interface, the Manjaro Gaming Edition is an excellent choice. It prioritizes low memory usage, offers a range of games, and provides top-notch updates.
4. SteamOS
Built upon Linux, SteamOS aims to provide a seamless gaming experience by focusing on performance, compatibility, and integration with the popular Steam gaming platform. With its emphasis on gaming, SteamOS offers users a unique gaming-centric operating system that enhances the overall gaming experience.
5. Lakka
This software is to offer a gaming experience, including features like big picture mode, a media player, and access to Steam games. Another option worth considering is Lakka. It’s not your Linux distribution that serves as an emulator for multiple gaming consoles.
6. Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is a Linux distribution that is highly favored among developers and also has features that attract gamers. It comes preloaded with applications like Flatpak and Snapcraft, which offer access to game libraries.
7. Solus Gaming Edition
Solus stands out as one of the most popular Linux distributions, and its Gaming Edition focuses on enhancing hardware performance through optimized kernel firmware. Additionally, it includes a range of high-performance gaming applications, making it an excellent choice for gamers.
8. SparkyLinux GameOver Edition
If you’re seeking a distribution that delivers performance across hardware configurations, the SparkyLinux GameOver Edition is tailored precisely for that purpose. It incorporates all games and gaming platforms to ensure gameplay on low-end devices.
9. Ubuntu Studio
Ubuntu Studio is renowned for its multimedia applications. It Offers more than meets the eye when it comes to gaming capabilities. It provides a gaming interface with latency and buffer-headed audio setup, enhancing overall performance during gameplay.
10. Zorin OS Gaming Edition
Zorin OS prioritizes providing users with a user interface compared to traditional Linux distributions. The Gaming Edition specifically features compatibility with Open Gaming Architecture for Unix (OGRF), offering gamers an interface for gaming needs.
11. GamerOS
GamerOS is a gaming-oriented operating system that offers users a wide range of streaming applications designed for console-like gaming experiences. With its integrated game launcher, GamerOS effortlessly detects downloaded games, making it convenient for users to jump into gameplay. Whether you prefer streaming games or playing locally, GamerOS aims to provide a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience that rivals traditional console gaming setups.
12. Lutris GameOS
Lutris GameOS is a choice for individuals who appreciate open-source game platforms. Lutris GameOS offers a wide range of customization options, allowing users to tailor their gaming experience to their preferences. It also supports gaming platforms and emulators, making it a versatile choice for gamers. Overall, Lutris GameOS provides a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for those who want a seamless and customizable gaming experience on an open-source platform.
13. Game Drift Linux
Apart from its speed enhancements, Game Drift Linux offers players an array of pre-installed gaming applications and utilities, providing simplicity and user-friendliness. With a simple interface, the distribution is user-friendly, making it easy for players to explore and access their favorite games. With its emphasis on gaming performance and user experience, Game Drift Linux is a choice for those looking for a dedicated gaming distribution that maximizes their gaming potential.
14. SuperGamer
SuperGamer stands out with its enhanced kernel that automatically improves sound and graphics, providing a gaming experience. It also offers a selection of over 100 gaming titles and built-in gaming emulation.
15. AV Linux
AV Linux is an excellent option for gamers. With support for video codecs and audio codecs, it enhances the gaming experience. Whether you’re into multimedia production or gaming, AVLinux caters to both with its range of features.
16. Calculate Linux
Calculate Linux Scratch is highly respected for its robustness in terms of resource usage, featuring an optimized kernel and various features that ensure gaming without system lags. This reliability makes it perfect for gamers who value gameplay above everything.
17. SteamBOSS
SteamBOSS is a lightweight distribution that prioritizes gaming performance by minimizing resource usage. Its minimalistic approach ensures that system resources are dedicated to gaming, resulting in smooth gameplay without unnecessary overhead. This commitment to providing timely gaming updates sets SteamBOSS apart as a distribution that caters to the needs of gamers. It doesn’t come with installed applications except for games. Additionally, it offers gaming updates that set it apart from distributions.
18. GameCube Linux
GameCube Linux emphasizes utilizing system resources, making it compatible with older hardware. It includes enhancements that improve gameplay smoothness and provide a lag-free experience.
19. Game Drift Linux
Game Drift Linux combines the XFCE desktop environment with the kernels to create a lightweight and exceptional gaming-focused Linux distribution. It serves as a platform for gamers who prioritize performance.
20. OpenMandriva Lx Game Edition
OpenMandriva Lx Game Edition goes beyond optimizing gaming performance by providing a curated selection of popular open-source games, making it a convenient choice for gamers. With its focus on gaming performance, usability, and a wide range of supported hardware, OpenMandriva Lx Game Edition offers a comprehensive gaming experience for Linux users.
Conclusion
With these 20 Linux distributions available, gamers now have an abundance of options to choose from. Each of these distributions possesses characteristics tailored to needs and preferences, whether compatibility with older hardware, efficient memory usage, impressive multimedia features, or exclusive customization for gaming purposes. Ultimately, the choice depends on the gamer’s preference and level of experience with Linux.
