I'm trying to install Dwarf Fortress on my Linux Mint system, but I'm stuck. I downloaded the latest version from the 12bay website and extracted the .zip file to my selected disk. In the extracted folder, I found a file named 'run_df' without an extension. When I try to run it by clicking, it prompts me to execute the file, but then nothing happens. The other text files just contain version info and changelogs. I've looked up guides on installing software on Linux, but they all seem confusing. Any straightforward advice on how to proceed? Thanks!
5 Answers
In most cases, software will come with a readme file explaining the installation steps. For running binaries on Linux, you sometimes need to make them executable. Right-click the 'run_df' file, go to properties, and make sure to check "Allow executing file as program". If you're comfortable with the terminal, you can also run:
`chmod +x /path/to/run_df`
Just replace `/path/to/` with the actual path where your file is located. This usually helps to get things running!
I gave it a shot on my Mint setup too. After extracting the files, I went into the folder and tried to run 'run_df' in the terminal. I used this command:
`./run_df`
But I got an error about a missing library: `libSDL2_image-2.0.so.0`. To fix it, I installed the library using:
`sudo apt install libsdl2-image-2.0-0`
Then I ran the command again, and it worked! Dwarf Fortress started without a hitch.
If you're unsure about anything, I just type " install " in Google. If the results are too complicated, I might think twice about needing the software. It helps to keep it simple!
Remember, on Linux, we don't rely on file extensions to execute programs. If you've downloaded a compressed file, just extract it and follow the steps I mentioned earlier to ensure the 'run_df' file is executable. If you can't figure it out, try searching for "Linux Mint install Dwarf Fortress" for more tutorials or tips.
Just a reminder, extracting the entire `df_52_02_linux.tar.bz2` is key! The 'run_df' file launches the game using other files from that archive. If you don't extract everything, it might not work as expected. Also, make sure you have any necessary libraries installed like SDL2 as a dependency.
I got that first step right but when I typed `./run_df`, it gave me a "no such file or directory" error. I'm not sure what I did wrong.