A few days ago we reported that the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X performed better on Linux (Bazzite) than on WindowsToday we bring you another piece of news that will interest gamers. Nearly 90% of Windows games already work on LinuxThe information was obtained from ProtonDB, a service that allows you to check if a game works correctly on Linux using Proton. Specifically, 89.7% of games work on Linux in one way or another.
ProtonDB The system separates game functionality into Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and non-compatible categories. Platinum games work perfectly upon installation and execution. Platinum games account for 42% of compatible games, an increase from 29% last year. Games that don't work represent only 3.8%, and many of these are intentionally incompatible with Linux due to added limitations.
Games on Linux are working better and better and there are more
The most common problem with games not working on Linux is related to anti-cheat software. To prevent legitimate players from being unfairly disadvantaged by cheaters, software is added that detects various behaviors, and one of its requirements is that Windows be used.
It's important to note that a game being compatible with Linux is not the same as being compatible with the Steam Deck. Linux is a kernel used by many operating systems, while the Steam Deck, which uses Linux, is the hardware on which SteamOS runs. A title might be compatible with Linux but not with the Steam Deck due to insufficient hardware, as, unfortunately for me, for example... Horizon forbidden west.
Will this lead to change?
This will lead to more and more people playing on Linux, but there won't be a change in the overall trend, or at least that's my opinion. 90% is a lot, but if you want to play a game that's in the 4% that's impossible, everything falls apart.
And I speak from my own experience: the Steam Deck has brought me a lot of joy, but I've also run into several problems. If I continue to get into gaming, it's possible, though not likely, that in the medium term I'll buy a mid-range PC to play games on my TV, and that PC would stay with Windows. Why bother with that?
However, if Valve releases its revised Steam Machines, with a more affordable price due to the elimination of licensing fees, and further improvements in compatibility... I don't know. Things could happen.
In any case, it's good to see how we can do more and more things in Linux, even things we thought were impossible years ago.