Tag: Gaming

Gaming On Linux: All You Need To Know

Post author By it's FOSS
Post date December 8, 2023
No Comments on Gaming On Linux: All You Need To Know

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This blog is originally published on it’s FOSS by Abhishek Prakash

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Can I play games on Linux? What are the games available for Linux? Where to find Linux games? This comprehensive article answers all your questions on Linux gaming.

Can I play games on Linux?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by users who are thinking about switching to Linux. After all, gaming on Linux is often termed as a distant possibility. At least, by some hardcore gamers using another platform to play games.

In fact, some people even wonder if they can listen to music or watch movies on Linux. Considering that, the question about playing games on Linux seem genuine.

In this article, I am going to answer most of the Linux gaming questions that a beginner may have. Some of the potential questions that I’m going to address here are:

Is it possible to play games on Linux?
What are the Linux games available?
Where can you download Linux games?
How do you get more information about gaming on Linux?

But before I do that, let me make a confession. I am not a PC gamer or rather I should say, I am not a desktop Linux gamer. I prefer to play games on my PS4 and I haven’t dived into the PC games available or even mobile games (no candy crush request sent to anyone in my friend list). This is the reason you only see a few articles in the Linux games section of It’s FOSS.

So why am I covering this topic then?

Because I have been asked questions about playing games on Linux several times and I wanted to come up with a Linux gaming guide that could answer all those questions. And remember, it’s not just gaming on Ubuntu I am talking about here. I am talking about Linux in general.

Can you play games on Linux?

Yes and no!

Yes, you can play games on Linux and no, you cannot play ‘all the games’ in Linux.

Confused? Don’t be. What I meant here is that you can get plenty of popular games on Linux such as Counter Strike, Shadow Of Mordor , etc.

However, you should not expect a native Linux support for the latest and greatest games – which are typically available for Windows.

The reason, in my opinion, is that Linux has less than 2% of desktop market share and the numbers are demotivating enough for most game developers to avoid working on the Linux version of their games.

Not just limited to the userbase, but not all games work perfectly on Linux. But, there are workarounds (ways) to play a huge list of games and I’ll be mentioning how to do that.

If I have to categorize, I’ll divide the games on Linux into four categories:

Native Linux Games (games officially available for Linux)
Windows games in Linux (Windows games played in Linux with Wine or other software)
Browser Games (games that you can play online using your web browse)
Terminal Games (games you can play in the Linux terminal)

Let’s start with the most important one, native Linux games, first.

1. Where to find native Linux games?

Native Linux games refer to those games which are officially supported on Linux. You just have to download it and hit it to play it without any potential troubleshooting.

Of course, there are a lot of games that officially support Linux – but where do you find them?

Hence, I will list some of the resources that you can utilize to download Linux games.

Steam

Steam is a very popular digital video game store that offers incredible deals on games for Linux (including free games as well). So, it is an obvious source of PC games.

You can explore it to find tons of games ranging from AAA titles to Indie games.

Usually, you can easily find Steam listed in your app center or package manager. But, if you have no clue how to install and use it, refer to my guide below on installing and using Steam on Ubuntu Linux to get an idea.

Install Steam

GOG.com

GOG.com is yet another platform similar to Steam. Like Steam, you can browse and find hundreds of native Linux games on GOG.com, purchase the games and install them. If the games support several platforms, you can download and use them across various operating systems. Your purchased games are available for you all the time in your account. You can download them anytime you wish.

One main difference between the two is that GOG.com offers only DRM free games. Also, GOG.com is entirely web-based. Unlike Steam, you don’t get a native desktop client on Linux for GOG.com.

GOG.com

Portable Linux Games

Portable Linux Games is a website that offers a good collection of Linux games for 32-bit systems. You can’t run the games on a purely 64-bit system by default – however, you can try following a troubleshooting guide to make it happen.

The downloaded files have all the dependencies (at times Wine and Perl installation) and these are also platform-independent. All you need to do is to download the files and double click to install them.

It’s a great source for gamers who aren’t into the games made by big studios but just want to have a good time playing some games on Linux.

Portable Linux Games

Itch.io

Looking for native Linux Indie games? if that’s the case, Itch.io is a fantastic source to find interesting games.

You can find a lot of Indie games for free and can also opt to choose a paid game.

Interestingly, you do not need to create an account to download free games. You can simply head to its page and download the file meant for Linux.

Itch.io

Software Repositories

You can also look into the software repositories of your own Linux distribution. There will always be some games on it.

If you are using Ubuntu, the Software Center itself has an entire section for games. The same is true for other Linux distributions such as Linux Mint etc.

2. How to play Windows games on Linux?

There’s a bunch of native Linux games out there. However, most of the popular games available aren’t available on Linux directly. In other words, the latest and greatest games do not support Linux (for the most) and are available for Windows only.

In that case, do we have a workaround to play those games on Linux? Yes, we do!

With the help of tools like Wine, Phoenicis (formerly known as PlayOnLinux), Lutris, CrossOver, and GameHub, you can play a number of popular Windows games on Linux.

Steam Play

If you’re fond of using Steam as your only source of games on Linux, you can easily try the Windows-only games using Steam Play.

Steam utilizes a compatibility layer to directly run a Windows-specific game on Linux. We do have a detailed guide on using Steam Play on Linux – I’d recommend you to explore that to get started with it.

Wine

Wine is a compatibility layer that is capable of running Windows applications in systems like Linux, BSD and OS X. With the help of Wine, you can install and use a number of Windows applications in Linux.
Installing Wine in Ubuntu or any other Linux is easy as it is available in most Linux distributions’ repository. There is a huge database of applications and games supported by Wine that you can browse.

CrossOver

CrossOver is an improved version of Wine that brings professional and technical support to Wine. But unlike Wine, CrossOver is not free. You’ll have to purchase the yearly license for it.

The good thing about CrossOver is that every purchase contributes to Wine developers and that in fact boosts the development of Wine to support more Windows games and applications. If you can afford about $20 a year, you should buy CrossOver for the support they provide.

GameHub

We already have a separate article on how to use GameHub on Linux.

But, to give you a heads up, GameHub lets you manage and play games from multiple sources that include Steam, GOG, and Humble Bundle.

Lutris Gaming

Lutris is something similar to GameHub but supports a wide range of sources that include Origin, Uplay, Epic Games Launcher, and several others.

It makes it easy for you to play Windows-only games on Linux. And, it is a quite popular tool used by many users. You can also check the official list of games it potentially supports before trying it out.

Phoenicis PlayOnLinux

PlayOnLinux too is based on Wine but implemented differently. It has a different interface and slightly easier to use than Wine. Like Wine, PlayOnLinux too is free to use.

It may not be the best choice among the others mentioned but you can browse the applications and games supported by PlayOnLinux on its database to decide for yourself.

3. Browser Games

Needless to say that there are tons of browser-based games that are available to play in any operating system, be it Windows or Linux or Mac OS X. Most of the addictive mobile games, such as GoodGame Empire, also have their web browser counterparts.

Apart from that, thanks to Google Chrome Web Store, you can play some more games in Linux. These Chrome games are installed like a standalone app and they can be accessed from the application menu of your Linux OS. Some of these Chrome games are playable offline as well.

4. Terminal Games

The added advantage of using Linux is that you can use the command line terminal to play games as well.

I know that it’s not the best way to play games but at times, it’s fun to play games like Snake or 2048 in the terminal.

To help you out, we have two separate lists of top command-line games and best ASCII games which are pretty easy to install.

How to stay updated about Linux games?

Now that you know where to find the games and how to use them on Linux, the next question is – how to stay updated about new games on Linux?

Of course, we will try to cover major game releases for Linux – however, we at It’s FOSS aren’t completely focused on gaming (as of yet).

And for that, I advise you to follow these blogs that provide you with the latest happenings of the Linux gaming world:

Gaming on Linux: I won’t be wrong if I call it the best Linux gaming news portal. You get all the latest rumblings and news about Linux games. Frequently updated, Gaming on Linux has dedicated fan following which makes it a nice community of Linux game lovers.

Free Gamer: A blog focusing on free and open source games.

Linux Game News: A blog that updates on various Linux games.

In fact, here are more websites Linux gamers should follow : https://itsfoss.com/best-linux-gaming-websites/

Wrapping Up

I think that’s pretty much what you need to know to get started with gaming on Linux. There are plenty of free Linux games that you can try at the moment.

There’s also a very useful migration guide by the subreddit r/linux_gaming that can help you kickstart your gaming journey on Linux.

It’s time for you to add your input. Do you play games on your Linux desktop? What are your favorites? What blogs do you follow to stay updated on the latest Linux games? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

Tags Gaming, linux

Tools

Algorand and Gaming: Exploring Blockchain’s Impact on the Gaming Industry

Post author By David Breiner
Post date October 24, 2023

Perhaps the last thing that springs to mind when you think about blockchain technology is gaming. But with Algorand leading the charge, the gaming sector has quietly emerged as one of the most fascinating areas for blockchain innovation. This essay will delve into the exciting realm where gaming and Algorand collide and examine how blockchain is changing the industry and opening up new options for investors, developers, and players.

Key Takeaways

Algorand in particular, a kind of blockchain technology, is transforming the gaming sector.
The way that players engage with virtual worlds is evolving as a result of decentralized ownership, NFTs, and play-to-earn models.
Algorand is the best blockchain for gaming apps because of its speed, security, and scalability.
New opportunities are opening up in the blockchain gaming industry for both gamers and creators.

Gaming on Blockchain Is Growing

Gaming on the blockchain is evolving, and it’s all about ownership, decentralization, and the fascinating realm of non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

Imagine becoming the sole owner of all of your own in-game items, such as characters or skins, independent from any game publishers. Blockchain enables this by allowing users to truly own their virtual assets. Fast transaction times on Algorand guarantee seamless and safe asset transfers.
Non-Fungible Tokens, or NFTs, have swept the gaming industry. Players may easily purchase, sell, and trade their in-game things thanks to these distinctive digital assets, which are frequently created on blockchain systems like Algorand. In the gaming world, NFTs are highly prized due to their scarcity and distinctiveness.

A Brief Introduction to Algorand

Photo by Shubham Dhage on Unsplash

Let’s first take a closer look at Algorand’s effects on the gaming sector before learning more about this cutting-edge blockchain platform.

A high-performance, open-source blockchain technology called Algorand is intended for decentralized apps and digital assets. Because of its distinctive consensus method, which enables quick transaction processing while retaining security and decentralization, it stands out in the blockchain ecosystem.

Algorand’s Impact on Gaming Revolution

The demands of the gaming industry are perfectly met by Algorand’s blockchain capabilities, ushering in a new age of gaming experiences.

Scalability and speed: Algorand’s blockchain can execute thousands of transactions per second, eradicating latency and lengthy confirmation periods that can sour a gaming session. Now that gameplay and transactions are seamless, it is simpler for players to purchase, sell, and trade in-game goods.
Security is crucial in a world where digital assets are becoming more and more valuable. With Algorand’s robust security mechanisms in place, participants can play blockchain-based games with confidence knowing their funds are safe from fraud and hackers.
Low Transaction costs: When exchanging in-game cash or products, traditional gaming sometimes carries expensive transaction costs. With almost no transaction costs, Algorand’s blockchain makes play-to-earn models and NFT trading economically viable for gamers.

Play-to-Earn Changes the Rules

Photo by Shubham Dhage on Unsplash

Blockchain technology is transforming gamers into earners, and play-to-earn business models are leading this change.

Earning While Playing: In conventional video games, levelling up is done merely for fun. Blockchain gaming, on the other hand, introduces the idea of “play-to-earn,” where players may get real-world value by taking part in the game. The accumulation of digital assets with actual monetary worth may be done by players through in-game tasks or NFT trading.
Economic Inclusivity: Play-to-earn models have the potential to give gamers in areas with a dearth of traditional employment possibilities access to new sources of income. Now, players from different backgrounds may take part in the worldwide market for virtual goods.

Blockchain Gaming’s Future

Algorand and blockchain technology have opened up a world of possibilities for gaming in the future.

Imagine being able to easily transfer your hard-earned stuff and progress from one game to another while using your favourite in-game character. This might become a reality thanks to the interoperability capabilities of blockchain, establishing a vibrant gaming industry.
Virtual Worlds Outside of Gaming: The significance of blockchain goes beyond gaming. Blockchain-based virtual worlds have the potential to link individuals from all over the world in novel ways by acting as meeting places, markets, and even educational environments.

Final Thoughts

A huge step forward for both players and developers, Algorand’s incorporation into the gaming sector. With the help of blockchain technology, players can now fully own their virtual assets, participate in the play-to-earn revolution, and discover a whole new world of gaming. Be sure to keep an eye on Algorand as we enter this fascinating era of blockchain gaming. It’s a fantastic platform for both players and developers because of its speed, security, and scalability, which are transforming the gaming industry. Seize the opportunity to play in the unlimited virtual worlds of the future, where a blockchain may provide hours of entertainment.

Tags algorand, blockchain applications, Gaming

Community

Monetizing Gaming: Exploring the Role of Digital Money in the Gaming Industry

Post author By Katie Pierce
Post date May 16, 2023

The gaming industry is seeing a big shift with the rise of digital technology. With digital money, game developers are finding new ways to earn money. This also allows them to offer better gaming experiences.

The effect of digital money is not exclusive to games. Given time, digital money can change the world. It is soon expected to change the global economy and society. From cryptocurrency to mobile payment systems, digital money is creating new avenues for finance, commerce, and social interaction.

This article will tackle how digital money will alter gaming, and what it means for players and developers.

In-game Purchases

In-game purchases are a goldmine for developers in today’s video game industry. The controversy surrounding these microtransactions is a discussion for another day. But one thing is for certain: they are here to stay.

Offering virtual goods and services in exchange for digital currency has become a reliable way to generate revenue. Developers encourage players to purchase their digital currency with real money by making the process of earning it in-game, time-consuming and difficult.

The result? They have a steady stream of revenue to fund development and maintenance.

Aside from providing developers with a financial boost, in-game purchases also give players plenty of customization options. Cosmetic items for their avatars and worlds are often the top sellers in various games’ digital shops.

Moreover, in-game purchases give players the opportunity to explore new content and experiences. This extends the lifespan of the game, giving long-time players more to chew on.

The prevalence of in-game purchases is beneficial to both game developers and players. But it is not without downsides. The allure of purchases can lead to risks such as overspending and addiction. This is especially true for virtual goods that involve chance, making them akin to gambling.

It is important for developers to maintain transparency in their purchase systems. Players, on the other hand, must be aware of their spending habits to avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes.

Virtual Goods and Currencies

In digital economies within the gaming industry, goods and currencies play vital roles, especially in virtual reality games. Unlike traditional economies, these digital economies are intricate and operate differently. Players either earn or purchase virtual currency and subsequently use it to buy virtual goods.

These goods typically enhance gameplay or provide cosmetic upgrades, such as new gear, weapons, or outfits. They can also be traded or sold for virtual currency among players.

The operation of virtual currency in these digital economies resembles that of real currency. Players can obtain virtual currency by engaging in gameplay. Most commonly, developers allow players to purchase virtual currency using real money.

The value of virtual currency can fluctuate based on supply and demand. It can also be exchanged for virtual goods. In some cases, virtual currency can even be converted into real currency. Consequently, it establishes a connection between the digital and real-world economies.

The use of virtual goods and currencies within gaming has spawned a new ecosystem. It is attracting the attention of entities outside of the gaming industry. Companies have explored ways to incorporate virtual currency into non-gaming settings, such as social networks and e-commerce.

With the potential of digital money extending beyond gaming, many experts speculate that it will soon revolutionize the world of finance and commerce.

Blockchain Technology in Gaming

Blockchain technology has gained popularity in gaming due to its decentralized nature. This allows secure and transparent recording of transactions and virtual assets. Game developers can use blockchain to ensure asset uniqueness and prevent duplication or manipulation.

The benefits of blockchain in gaming include the following:

Ownership: Blockchain enables players to fully own and control their virtual assets. These assets can be transferred across games and platforms to increase interoperability.

Security: Blockchain ensures high security by using an unalterable public ledger to record all transactions. This helps prevent hacking or tampering.

Transparency: Blockchain provides transaction transparency. It allows players to view their transaction history and asset provenance.

In-game economies: Developers can create in-game economies with virtual currencies. Players can use these currencies to earn real-world value for their virtual assets through trading.

Increased revenue: Blockchain allows new revenue streams through the sale of unique virtual assets or in-game economies. This can lead to increased profitability for developers.

Benefits and Challenges

Digital money in gaming offers benefits for game developers and players. It creates new revenue opportunities for developers and enhances the user experience for players. However, potential risks like fraud and addiction are associated with the use of digital money.

Regulatory and legal challenges must be considered. Governments may restrict the use of digital money in gaming or require game developers to obtain licenses. The practice can also raise concerns about money laundering and fraud. When ignored, these issues may result in legal action against the developers.

Moreover, the lack of clear legal frameworks for digital money in gaming can create uncertainty and risk for both developers and players.

Summing Up

Digital money is changing the gaming industry by offering revenue generation and improved user experiences. However, its impact extends beyond gaming and could revolutionize the global economy and society.

As digital money evolves, staying informed about its benefits and challenges will be crucial. Game developers and players must learn to adapt and thrive in this rapidly changing landscape.

Tags Digital Money, Gaming, technology