Recent data has revealed a significant advancement in the compatibility of Windows games on Linux platforms, particularly since the introduction of Valve’s Steam Deck and the accompanying SteamOS. This development marks a notable shift in the gaming landscape, showcasing the increasing viability of Linux as a gaming operating system.
According to insights shared by Boiling Steam, nearly 90% of Windows games are now capable of launching on Linux, as per statistics from ProtonDB. This means that for gamers utilizing Linux, especially through SteamOS, the number of titles that are completely incompatible has dwindled considerably. While some games, like Silent Hill 2, remain unsupported, the overall trend indicates a promising future for Linux gaming.
However, a significant hurdle persists: games employing anti-cheat systems continue to pose compatibility challenges. This issue is particularly pronounced in popular multiplayer titles. For instance, the renowned Call of Duty series and EA’s Battlefield 6 are unable to run on Linux due to their reliance on kernel-level anti-cheat mechanisms designed for Windows. Despite this setback, there are exceptions; titles such as Helldivers 2 and Splitgate 2 have successfully integrated anti-cheat systems that function on Linux, suggesting that compatibility is not entirely out of reach.
Analysis: kernel-level anti-cheat is one of the worst things to happen to online multiplayer
The irony of kernel-level anti-cheat systems is striking. Designed to combat cheating, they often fail to deliver on their promise. Instances during the Call of Duty Black Ops 7 beta highlighted this failure, as players encountered numerous cheats despite the presence of these protective measures. Even when anti-cheat tools are effective, hackers frequently discover new vulnerabilities, undermining their intended purpose.
This situation creates a paradox where legitimate gamers face restrictions due to the actions of a minority. Furthermore, the kernel-level access required by these systems can expose players to security vulnerabilities and may negatively impact gaming performance. The incompatibility of many popular online games with Linux due to these anti-cheat measures adds to the frustration, suggesting that such systems may do more harm than good in the context of multiplayer gaming.
As the Linux gaming community continues to grow, particularly with the rise of SteamOS, there is hope that major publishers like EA and Activision will consider enhancing compatibility with this alternative operating system. A significant segment of gamers, especially those using handheld devices and desktop PCs, eagerly awaits a more inclusive gaming environment.
