TL;DR
A PC Gamer writer argues that mainstream Linux distributions have become much more usable for desktop and gaming use, based on personal experience with gaming-focused Bazzite and a Debian 13 media-server. While compatibility has improved, issues such as HDR support and anti-cheat remain obstacles for some titles.
What happened
Joshua Wolens, writing for PC Gamer, reports that his recent hands-on time with Linux has changed his long-held view of the platform. He has been using Bazzite, a gaming-focused distribution, on his main PC and upgraded an older laptop to Debian 13 to run as a media server. Wolens says most games he tried ran as easily — or easier — on these Linux setups than on Windows, and that he seldom needed to use the command line. He cites data from the Steam hardware survey showing Linux usage at 3.2% of Steam users and notes improvements in compatibility via Valve’s Proton layer. He also identifies persistent pain points: HDR remains inconsistent, and many live-service games rely on anti-cheat software that can block Linux players. Wolens suggests trying Linux in 2026, at least from a separate boot drive.
Why it matters
- Greater desktop usability could lower the barrier for mainstream Linux adoption beyond enthusiasts.
- Improving compatibility through Proton and distro work means more games can be played without Windows.
- Running lightweight servers or dedicated roles (media server) on Linux can reduce maintenance and unwanted bundled software.
- Remaining technical gaps — HDR and anti-cheat — still limit a full switch for some users and titles.
Key facts
- The author tested Bazzite, a distro positioned for gaming and designed to reduce risky user actions.
- Steam hardware survey showed Linux at 3.2% of overall Steam users in the most recent month cited.
- The author runs Debian 13 on an older laptop repurposed as a media server, requiring minimal intervention.
- Valve’s Proton compatibility layer is mentioned as helping Windows games run on Linux.
- HDR support on Linux is described as inconsistent and still problematic.
- Many live-service games use anti-cheat systems that currently do not work well with Linux.
- The author reports not needing to use the command line for his recent Linux use.
- The piece encourages trying Linux from a separate boot drive if users want to experiment safely.
What to watch next
- Valve’s push into living-room hardware and SteamOS developments as they may influence Linux gaming adoption.
- Ongoing work on open-source AMD GPU drivers and related projects (for example, Mesa) that affect performance and compatibility.
- Anti-cheat compatibility improvements — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Distro: A distribution of Linux that packages the kernel with system tools, applications, and a package manager to create a usable operating system.
- Proton: A compatibility layer developed by Valve that enables many Windows games to run on Linux via translation and compatibility components.
- Bootloader: Software that runs when a computer starts and loads the operating system kernel into memory.
- Anti-cheat: Software used by online games to detect and prevent cheating; some implementations interfere with alternative operating systems.
- Mesa: An open-source collection of graphics drivers and libraries used on Linux for GPU support, particularly for AMD and Intel hardware.
Reader FAQ
Is Linux ready for desktop gaming?
According to the author’s experience, many games run well on modern Linux distros with Proton, but compatibility varies and some titles are blocked by anti-cheat systems.
Do I need to use the command line to run Linux?
The author reports not needing the command line for his recent setups, though experiences may differ by distribution and tasks.
Can I try Linux without wiping my PC?
Yes — the author recommends installing Linux on a separate boot drive to experiment safely.
Are there remaining technical limitations?
HDR support is described as inconsistent and many live-service games use anti-cheat software that may prevent play on Linux.
Software Operating Systems Linux I'm brave enough to say it: Linux is good now, and if you want to feel like you actually own your PC, make 2026 the year…
Sources
- Linux is good now
- 6 reasons 2026 could finally be the year of desktop Linux
- My Holiday Hopes for Linux and Open Source
- Here's Our Prediction for the Future of Desktop Linux in 2026
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