Heroic Games Launcher continues to evolve with its version 2.16, offering a number of significant improvements for Linux gamers and Steam Deck owners. This popular open-source game launcher has become an indispensable tool for running Linux titles. GOG, Epic Games, Amazon Prime Gaming and other platforms on Linux-based operating systems.
In this new version, one of the most notable new features is the UMU adopted as the default method for running Windows games using Proton outside of the official Steam platform. This implementation allows certain compatibility solutions to be automated and performance to be optimized without the user having to perform manual configurations. In addition, it is now used GE-Proton instead of Wine-GE, which has stopped receiving maintenance.
If you want to know more about this software, visit our article on What it is and how to install it to get the most out of it.
Major improvements in Heroic Games Launcher 2.16
The update includes a large number of changes, among which the following stand out:
- Customizable environment variables: Users can now set environment variables on known workarounds to further improve game compatibility.
- Start arguments via URL: Added the ability to pass specific arguments to games using protocol URLs, making it easier to run titles with advanced options.
- Steam shortcuts for uninstalled games: Users can add Steam shortcuts even for titles that are not installed, making it easier to stay organized within the library.
- Anti-cheat system registry: Logs are now generated with detailed information about how anti-cheat works in games, making it easier to identify issues related to these systems.
- Improvements to GOG game settings: Various options for installing and running GOG titles on Linux have been optimized.
- DXVK-NVAPI enabled by default for NVIDIA cards:Linux users with NVIDIA graphics cards will notice compatibility improvements thanks to DXVK-NVAPI being enabled by default.
- New options in Gamescope: Added a switch to enable the “Force Grab Cursor” option, preventing the cursor from leaving the window when playing in full screen.
User Experience Optimization
Along with these new features, numerous improvements have been made. interface settings user experience, improving fluidity and accessibility within the launcher. Small details, such as more intuitive icons and a clearer layout of options, make navigation in Heroic more comfortable for users.
For those looking for an effective alternative to official launchers from platforms like Epic Games or GOG on Linux and Steam Deck, this new version of Heroic Games Launcher is positioned as one of the most complete to date. The community continues to actively contribute improvements and suggestions, ensuring that game compatibility on these systems remains a priority.
For more details about the update and downloads, you can visit the official repository on GitHub.
