For those who have long envisioned a seamless PC gaming experience, the Framework Desktop paired with the innovative Bazzite Linux distribution offers a promising solution. This combination allows gamers to enjoy their extensive Steam libraries in a versatile manner, whether lounging on the couch or working at a desk. The Framework Desktop, compact yet powerful, provides a refreshing alternative to traditional gaming setups that often come with noise and bulkiness.
Setting up Bazzite is straightforward, reminiscent of the familiar SteamOS environment. Within an hour, users can transition to a 4K gaming experience at 60 frames per second, all while maintaining a device smaller than a PlayStation 5. This setup not only enhances gaming but also facilitates productivity, allowing for easy movement between work and leisure spaces.
Game Performance
The Framework Desktop excels in delivering impressive gaming performance, particularly with its top-tier Ryzen AI Max Plus 395 APU. While it shines at 2.5K resolution, it can also handle 4K gaming with finesse, depending on the title. Below is a glimpse of how various games perform on this setup:
- Cyberpunk 2077: Achieves around 60fps at 4K with medium settings, showcasing the potential of frame generation for enhanced performance.
- Helldivers 2: Maintains mid-60s fps in 4K, with minor dips during intense action.
- Street Fighter 6: Smoothly runs at 4K and 60fps, proving the system’s capability for competitive gaming.
- Monster Hunter Wilds: Despite its notorious performance issues, it manages decent frame rates with optimized settings.
- Elden Ring Nightreign: Plays well at 4K, with options to lock in 60fps at lower resolutions.
- Peak: Runs effortlessly at 4K, often exceeding 80fps.
While many titles perform admirably on Linux, some still favor Windows for optimal performance. For instance, Cyberpunk 2077 displayed a slight decrease in frame rates on Linux compared to Windows. Nevertheless, the overall experience with Bazzite and the Framework Desktop is commendable, marking a potential resurgence for Steam Machines in the gaming landscape.
