Gaming on Linux: Steam, Proton and Wine

In short: Windows games run on Linux mostly via Wine and Proton, a translation layer that converts Windows calls into Linux calls. With Steam and Proton this works for very many games at the click of a button.

In more detail: Wine is not an emulator, it provides the Windows programming interface on Linux. Proton is Valve’s version of Wine with additions (DXVK, VKD3D for DirectX → Vulkan).

In detail

• Steam: Linux client, enable Proton under “Settings → Compatibility”.
• ProtonDB: website with reports on whether a game runs (Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, Borked).
• Lutris, Heroic, Bottles: managers for games from other stores (GOG, Epic) and Wine environments.
• Obstacles: some anti-cheat systems block Linux. Check before buying.
• Performance: gamemode, MangoHud (overlay), current Mesa drivers, Vulkan.
• Steam Deck: runs SteamOS on an Arch base, see SteamOS, Zorin OS and other special distributions.
• Distributions for games: Bazzite, Nobara, Pop!_OS.
• Office programs: Wine can also start Windows programs, native alternatives are better.

See also: Graphics, audio and drivers on Linux, Linux distributions: family tree