I'm assisting a charity that focuses on teens with special needs by setting up a PC in their common area for multiplayer party games. The goal is to ensure that the PC can be operated solely with a controller, meaning users can select and play games without needing a keyboard. We want to prevent any installations or downloads without entering an admin password. I originally considered using Steam OS, but since it's not available, what other Linux options would be suitable for this specific scenario?
4 Answers
Bazzite is indeed a solid choice. It not only has an easy-to-use GUI but also maintains that immutable feature. As for Steam OS, I don’t really get the hype; many other distros can do just as well or even better, honestly. Just my two cents!
When deciding if Linux is the best option, consider who will be managing the devices and what hardware you're using. Bazzite is great for a console-like experience, but be cautious with NVIDIA support. If support will be a concern, a console like an Xbox or a PlayStation might be better. Even Windows could serve you better if you need NVIDIA compatibility. And don't hesitate to reach out to manufacturers; they might offer some support or discounts for charities!
You might want to check out Bazzite. It’s a user-friendly option, plus it’s immutable, which means it won’t change once set up—great for your situation! Just a heads up, anti-cheat systems can be tricky on Linux, so make sure to check relevant sites before diving into games. Good luck!
Also, don't forget about ProtonDB for checking game compatibility on Linux!
Bazzite and Nobara both offer HTPC versions, and you can just use any distro in Steam's Big Picture mode. It gives a console-like feel which might work well in a charity setup!
For this specific situation, I’d stick with Bazzite. It’s been more stable for me, and the interface isn’t complicated!
It's probably the popularity and the influence of Gabe Newell, the CEO of Valve. A lot of fans have rallied behind Steam OS.