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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Linux.
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Proton Experimental gets fixes for Rocket League, Crimson Desert, Helldivers 2 and more
Valve has released a new update for Proton Experimental, bringing fixes for several games including Rocket League, Crimson Desert, and Helldivers 2, improving their performance and stability on Linux and SteamOS. The update also addresses regressions found in Proton 11 beta and ensures continued compatibility with Easy Anti-Cheat for games like Rocket League.
Nintendo 64 emulator gopher64 adds controller hotkeys and auto-reconnect
The open-source Nintendo 64 emulator gopher64 has received an update, version 1.1.20, introducing controller hotkeys and an auto-reconnect feature for disconnected controllers. This release also includes minor bug fixes and an option for SSAA downscaling, further enhancing its usability on platforms like Linux and SteamOS.
Story-driven RTS game TFC2: Collapse of The Bronze Age announced
TFC2: Collapse of The Bronze Age, a narrative-driven real-time strategy game set during the Late Bronze Age Collapse, has been announced. Developed by Wield Interactive and published by MicroProse Software, the sequel to TFC: The Fertile Crescent will feature a story-based campaign, survival gameplay with base-building, and tactical combat. Playable factions include Assyrians, Egyptians, Babylonians, and Hittites, with multiplayer support also confirmed. A release date has not yet been announced.
Alabaster Dawn Early Access
Alabaster Dawn, the debut title from Radical Fish Games, has launched on Steam for PC and Linux. This 2.5D action RPG is currently available in Early Access with a 15% launch discount for a limited time.
Civilization VII "Test of Time" update lands May 19, finally letting you play entirely as one civ
Firaxis Games has released the 'Test of Time' update for Civilization VII, addressing player feedback by allowing players to stick with a single civilization throughout the game. The update also introduces a reworked Victories system and a new 'Triumphs' objective system, aiming to improve the game's reception and player experience.
Paradox Interactive announced as publisher for Transport Fever 3
Paradox Interactive has been announced as the publisher for Urban Games' upcoming simulation title, Transport Fever 3, set to release later this year. While Paradox will handle publishing duties, Urban Games retains full rights to the series. The game will feature native support for Linux and macOS, along with an extensive modding program.
The Steam Controller Is Already Being Scalped For Triple The Price
Valve's new Steam Controller sold out immediately upon release, leading to scalpers reselling the device for triple its retail price of $99 on platforms like eBay. Valve has acknowledged the high demand and is working to increase stock, but potential buyers are advised to act quickly to avoid inflated prices. The controller is designed for use with the entire Steam library across various platforms including PC, Steam Deck, and Steam Machine.
VKD3D-Proton 3.0.1 brings many Linux gaming enhancements for Direct3D 12 via Vulkan
VKD3D-Proton version 3.0.1 has been released, offering significant enhancements for running Direct3D 12 games on Linux via Vulkan. This update includes fixes and improvements for various titles like Death Stranding 2 and Crimson Desert, experimental support for D3D12 view instancing, and performance optimizations, particularly for mobile chips. This release is noted as likely the last before support for VK_EXT_descriptor_heap is integrated.
Highly rated adventure game Shadows of the Afterland adds full controller support
The highly-rated point-and-click adventure game Shadows of the Afterland has received an update adding full controller support for PC and Steam Deck. The game, which features a supernatural mystery narrative and native Linux support, is also Steam Deck Verified. Players guide a police investigator who awakens in the afterlife and must use possession mechanics to solve her own death.
Steam Controller Went Out of Stock “Faster Than We Anticipated”, Says Valve
Valve announced that the Steam Controller has sold out faster than anticipated, with the company working to restock the device and provide an updated timeline soon. The controller, priced at $99, has received praise for its features, customizability, and compatibility across Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
'A single 732-byte Python script can be used to obtain root on essentially all Linux distributions shipped since…
A severe vulnerability nicknamed 'Copy Fail' allows local users to gain root privileges on most Linux distributions released since 2017 by exploiting a flaw in the page cache. Theori disclosed the vulnerability (CVE-2026-31431), which threat actors are already using in the wild, prompting CISA to add it to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog.
Linux century marches on as Discord brings updater parity with Windows and easy installs for more distros
Discord has updated its application for Linux, bringing its updater functionality in parity with Windows and simplifying installation for more distributions. This change addresses a long-standing inconvenience for Linux users who previously had to manually install updates. The move is seen as a positive sign for Linux's growing presence on the desktop.
Discord is finally less of a nuisance to update on Linux
Discord has released a significant update for its Linux version, introducing an auto-update feature powered by a Rust-based updater, similar to its Windows counterpart. The update also adds support for .rpm and .pkg.tar.zst package formats, alongside numerous bug fixes and improvements focused on UI, accessibility, and server administration.
shapez 2 is a thoroughly chilled time building up a shape-cutting factory
shapez 2 has launched its 1.0 version, introducing a new Manufacture Mode for large-scale factories, advanced automation tools, achievements, and modding support via Steam Workshop. Despite some reported instability issues on Linux, the game maintains an Overwhelmingly Positive user rating on Steam for its relaxed factory-building gameplay.
Unique deck-builder Moonsigil Atlas arrives May 28 - No energy, no mana, just space
The deck-building roguelite Moonsigil Atlas is set to release on May 28th, featuring a unique gameplay system without energy or mana, focusing instead on spatial placement of cards on a grid. Players can cast as many cards as they fit, with positioning and card upgrades playing a crucial role in combat. The game will launch with over 250 cards, three distinct characters, and a randomized map for replayability, and a refreshed demo is currently available.
The new Steam Controller from Valve is out now - some early thoughts
Valve's new Steam Controller offers a comfortable and feature-rich experience, building upon the lessons learned from the Steam Deck. It boasts excellent battery life, repairability, and deep customization through Steam Input, making it a versatile option for PC gaming, especially on Linux. While it has a learning curve and some minor quirks with non-Steam games and specific titles, it significantly outclasses previous controllers for couch gaming and general PC use.
Prepare to rig the market in SlotsNStocks, a deckbuilding slot machine roguelike
SlotsNStocks is a new deckbuilding roguelike from Nightforge Studios that combines slot machine mechanics with stock market simulation. Players draft symbols, spin a slot machine to manipulate the market, and manage risks to meet weekly margin calls. A Steam Playtest is planned before a late 2026 release, with native Linux support confirmed.
Unique module-building tower defense game Wireworks just got much bigger
The unique module-building tower defense roguelike auto-battler Wireworks has received a significant free content update. This update adds 40 new items, two new characters (The Tinker and The Hunter), and a new game mechanic focused on 'Tools' items. The game is available on Linux.
Dungeon Clawler 1.0 is out now - it will hook you and frustrate you just like the real thing
Dungeon Clawler 1.0, developed by Stray Fawn Studio, is now available, merging the roguelite deckbuilder genre with claw machine mechanics. The game features 26 unique characters, 8 different claws, over 120 items, and 40+ enemies, offering a unique and experimental experience. It is priced at $14.99 and is available natively on Linux.
Build and command a flying fortress in the playtest of Castle Away
Renegade Games has announced a public Steam playtest for their strategy roguelite autobattler, Castle Away. The game challenges players to build and command a customizable flying fortress, with the playtest now supporting Linux, macOS, and controller inputs. Players strategically place structures within their keep to create synergies and battle demons across five distinct realms.
