I'm using Pop!_OS and I'm curious about how to play games on Linux. What are the best current methods for running both Linux-compatible games and Windows-exclusive titles? Also, if I plug in a controller, will it just work automatically, or do I need to do any setup? By the way, I'm also interested in modding—what's the situation with mods on Linux?
4 Answers
Modding on Linux can be a bit of a mixed bag. For games that don't officially support mods, you may need to dive into third-party tools. Places like Nexus Mods can help, but always check to see if there’s community support for the specific game you're interested in. For your questions about searching for mods, just Googling or checking YouTube often yields good results.
Yeah, also look for forums—people often share their solutions on there!
Linux gaming is surprisingly solid! Steam handles most games through Proton with minimal fuss. Just keep an eye on anticheat systems for a few titles that might not work. For controllers, I’ve had good luck with Xbox models—just plug and play—though some older models might be tricky. Make sure to have Proton GE for the best results!
I've noticed newer Xbox controllers work great, but older ones can be hit or miss.
For PS4 and Switch controllers, I've had no issues on Steam—it’s really smooth!
You've got options like Steam, Lutris, and Bottles for gaming. Steam is best for its simplicity—just add games there and use Proton for Windows titles. If you're looking at other stores, try the Heroic Games Launcher for GoG or Epic Games. For installing non-Steam games, you can add them in Steam, which is usually the easiest method. Controller-wise, most should work immediately when plugged in, especially the latest Xbox and DualShock controllers.
Yeah, I prefer using Steam too, but Lutris has been super helpful for other games!
Completely agree, plug-and-play is the way to go with controllers!
For gaming on Linux, Steam is your go-to! Most games work well with Proton, which means you often won't need any extra setup. Just right-click on the game in your library, go to Properties, find Compatibility, and choose a Proton version. You'll find helpful info on ProtonDB for specific games, too. As for controllers, they generally work out of the box, especially USB and Bluetooth ones, but check the compatibility based on your controller.
You can also use Lutris for other gaming platforms, which is great if you want to run non-Steam games.
Yeah, my Xbox controllers all connect seamlessly on Linux Mint, so you should be good!
Great tips! I always search for '(game name) mods on Linux' to find tailored advice.