Games That Were Made with Linux in Mind

Since the early days of gaming, Windows has been the prime destination for PC gaming, only competing directly with consoles which, as we all know, are an entirely different beast. But over the last 20 years, we have seen a sharp increase in competition from other computer operating systems. So, let’s take a look at Linux, exploring some of the best games that you can play on it today.

What is Linux?

While Linux may seem relatively novel to most computer users, it has been around for a seriously long time. Only six years less than Windows, in fact! 

Created in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, Linux is an alternative operating system that prides itself on stability, security, its open-source nature, and the flexibility it provides developers. Because of this, it has become one of the widest-used operating systems by computing professionals and programmers.

As it is open source, it doesn’t work quite the same way Windows does—that is, there isn’t really a commercial driving force behind keeping the OS up to date. Instead, different teams of developers use the base-level Linux kernel to create their own custom versions of Linux—kind of like how most phones use Android, but install their own software, interfaces, and features on top of that base layer.

6 Great Games You Can Play on Linux

Understanding what Linux is, it’s obvious why gaming has taken a longer time to come to the platform—after all, most game developers will only develop for platforms that have a large enough user base to justify their development time and costs. But, fortunately for Linux fans, that number seems to be large enough for these titles to have come to the platform!

1. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO)

This powerhouse of a competitive FPS needs no introduction, but you may be surprised to hear that it is available to play on Linux! This Linux availability primarily comes thanks to its developers’ interest in the platform—those developers being Valve, the company also behind the gaming marketplace Steam.

If you’re yet to give Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) a try, and are a fan of competitive shooters, this is certainly a must-download for any Linux gamer. And if you’re put off by its age, don’t be—it’s still one of the most popular games out there.

If you want to jump into CS:GO, you can get a head start if you buy CS:GO accounts here!

2. Dota 2

Sticking with Valve, who are pioneers when it comes to bringing top-tier gaming to Linux, Dota 2 is their MOBA offering (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena, for the uninitiated). Offering a similar competitive edge as CS:GO, but in an entirely different format and setting, Dota 2 is also an incredibly popular game with gamers, streamers, and competitive players worldwide. And yes, you can enjoy this one on Linux.

3. Minecraft

While Minecraft may have been acquired by Windows a while back, there was no keeping it off Linux. After all, you can play Minecraft on everything from a current-gen games console to an old and beaten-up Android phone. 

While Minecraft needs no introduction, its appeal and cultural importance cannot be understated. So if you’ve never given it a shot, now is your chance.

4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Offering up something totally different from everything else on this list, The Witcher 3 is one of the most iconic fantasy RPGs of all time—and it’s playable on Linux! While the game didn’t originally launch on the platform, continuous efforts from both fans and the developers at CD Projekt Red saw the game ported to the platform.

Now you can live your Geralt of Rivia fantasies on Linux!

5. Civilisation VI

Not a shooter or RPG fan? No problem. Civilisation, or more lovingly known as Civ, is one of the foremost strategy games out there—and it has been since the very first iteration way back in 1991 (yes, that’s the same year Linux was invented!)

Civ VI continues the game’s tradition, allowing players to slowly conquer the world via hexagonal tiles. And, since 2017, Linux players have been able to get in on the fun too.

6. Rocket League

More of a sports gamer? Well, Rocket League takes soccer, puts it in cars, and straps turbo boosters to it. Yes, this crazy, tactical, team sports hybrid is also available on Linux, bringing with it a whole tonne of arcade madness.

Linux Gaming Unleashed

Even ten years ago, every PC gamer needed Windows. But now, Linux has a whole host of games available for gamers to enjoy. Not to mention that some developers now also release Linux versions on day one. That said, Linux gaming still has a limited catalog compared to Windows, consoles, and even Mac. This is mainly due to the additional costs required to port the game over to the new operating system. But, if you’re a Linux user addicted to the OS’s stability and security, you can rest assured that some of gaming’s best titles are available to you… even if they are mostly a few years old.