Owner of big gaming platform can’t believe how bad Windows 11 is – and hints are dropped about big things for Linux gamers this year
January 16, 2026
In a recent interview with PC Gamer, two prominent executives from GOG, the gaming platform renowned for its dedication to classic titles, shared their candid thoughts on the current state of Windows 11 and the rising interest in Linux. Michał Kiciński, the new owner of GOG, expressed his astonishment at the longevity of Windows, stating, “I’m really surprised at Windows. It’s such poor-quality software and product, and I’m so surprised that it’s [spent] so many years on the market. I can’t believe it!” His remarks reflect a growing sentiment among users who have found the latest operating system lacking in several areas compared to its predecessor, Windows 10.
Linux’s Growing Importance
Maciej Gołębiewski, the managing director, echoed Kiciński’s sentiments and highlighted GOG’s strategic pivot towards Linux, noting that it is “one of the things that we’ve put in our strategy for this year to look closer at.” This shift comes in the wake of an increasing number of games becoming compatible with Linux, particularly due to the success of SteamOS on handheld devices. The anticipated arrival of the Steam Machine further underscores this trend, promising to enhance the convenience of living room gaming.
The executives’ comments come at a time when Microsoft has intensified its focus on integrating AI into Windows 11, a move that has drawn criticism from users who feel that foundational issues remain unaddressed. Many have pointed out that the performance of Windows 11 has not met expectations, particularly concerning search functionality and File Explorer. While some features have been reintroduced since the OS’s launch in 2021, the overarching sentiment is that the push for AI has overshadowed the need for essential improvements.
As GOG prepares to embrace Linux more fully by 2026, it reflects a broader industry trend where developers are increasingly recognizing the value of alternative operating systems. The transition may not only enhance the gaming experience for users but also position GOG as a forward-thinking player in the evolving landscape of digital gaming.
Owner of big gaming platform can’t believe how bad Windows 11 is – and hints are dropped about big things for Linux gamers this year
In a recent interview with PC Gamer, two prominent executives from GOG, the gaming platform renowned for its dedication to classic titles, shared their candid thoughts on the current state of Windows 11 and the rising interest in Linux. Michał Kiciński, the new owner of GOG, expressed his astonishment at the longevity of Windows, stating, “I’m really surprised at Windows. It’s such poor-quality software and product, and I’m so surprised that it’s [spent] so many years on the market. I can’t believe it!” His remarks reflect a growing sentiment among users who have found the latest operating system lacking in several areas compared to its predecessor, Windows 10.
Linux’s Growing Importance
Maciej Gołębiewski, the managing director, echoed Kiciński’s sentiments and highlighted GOG’s strategic pivot towards Linux, noting that it is “one of the things that we’ve put in our strategy for this year to look closer at.” This shift comes in the wake of an increasing number of games becoming compatible with Linux, particularly due to the success of SteamOS on handheld devices. The anticipated arrival of the Steam Machine further underscores this trend, promising to enhance the convenience of living room gaming.
The executives’ comments come at a time when Microsoft has intensified its focus on integrating AI into Windows 11, a move that has drawn criticism from users who feel that foundational issues remain unaddressed. Many have pointed out that the performance of Windows 11 has not met expectations, particularly concerning search functionality and File Explorer. While some features have been reintroduced since the OS’s launch in 2021, the overarching sentiment is that the push for AI has overshadowed the need for essential improvements.
As GOG prepares to embrace Linux more fully by 2026, it reflects a broader industry trend where developers are increasingly recognizing the value of alternative operating systems. The transition may not only enhance the gaming experience for users but also position GOG as a forward-thinking player in the evolving landscape of digital gaming.