Nhich game runs on Linux?

Linux gaming has come a long way. Once considered a niche platform, Linux now supports thousands of games, thanks to native ports, Proton, Lutris, and cloud gaming. Whether you’re into AAA titles, indie gems, or retro classics, Linux has something for every gamer.

🎮 1. Native Linux Games

Many developers release Linux versions of their games, offering full compatibility without workarounds. Some notable examples in 2025 include:

  • Dota 2 – Valve’s MOBA runs natively on Linux.

  • Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) – Competitive shooters are fully supported.

  • Civilization VI – Strategy fans can enjoy long campaigns.

  • Factorio – Build factories and automate production seamlessly.

  • Stardew Valley – Indie favorites run perfectly on Linux.

Tip: Check Steam and GOG for the “Supports Linux” tag to identify native games.

⚡ 2. Windows Games via Proton & Wine

Thanks to Valve’s Proton and Wine, thousands of Windows games are playable on Linux:

  • Elden Ring – Works with Proton for high-performance play.

  • Cyberpunk 2077 – Runs with some tweaks via Proton.

  • The Witcher 3 – Fully playable with Proton.

  • Grand Theft Auto V – Works on Linux using Proton.

Tip: Steam’s ProtonDB is a community-driven database showing which Windows games work on Linux and their performance.

🕹️ 3. Retro & Emulated Games

Linux is perfect for retro gaming. Using emulators like RetroArch, MAME, or DOSBox, you can play:

  • NES, SNES, and Game Boy games

  • PlayStation 1 & 2 classics

  • Sega Genesis & Saturn titles

  • Arcade and MAME machines

Devices like the Steam Deck or Anbernic RG351V make this experience portable and convenient.

☁️ 4. Cloud Gaming on Linux

Even if a game has no Linux support, cloud gaming can make it playable:

  • GeForce Now – Stream AAA Windows games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Warframe.

  • Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) – Play Xbox titles directly in a browser.

  • Shadow PC – Full Windows desktop streamed to Linux for maximum compatibility.

Cloud gaming ensures you don’t miss out on Windows-exclusive titles.

🧩 5. Indie Games & Open-Source Titles

Linux thrives in the indie and open-source scene:

  • 0 A.D. – Open-source real-time strategy game.

  • SuperTuxKart – Fun kart racing for all ages.

  • OpenTTD – Build transportation empires.

  • Many indie titles on Steam and itch.io natively support Linux.

🔧 Tips for Gaming on Linux

  1. Use a gaming-focused Linux distro like Pop!_OS, Ubuntu GamePack, or Manjaro Gaming.

  2. Install Steam and enable Proton for Windows games.

  3. Use Lutris or RetroArch for emulators and non-Steam games.

  4. Check ProtonDB and native Linux game lists before purchasing.

✅ Bottom Line

Linux gaming in 2025 is versatile and powerful:

  • Native games offer seamless play.

  • Proton & Wine expand your Windows library.

  • Retro emulators bring nostalgia to life.

  • Cloud gaming lets you play nearly any title.

Whether you’re on a desktop, Steam Deck, or retro handheld, Linux has a game for you. It’s now a legitimate platform for gamers who want freedom, flexibility, and fun.