Linux
Ongoing coverage on Linux.
Latest coverage
Fortnite’s Linux Plan via Epic Games Launcher Needs Distro Support
Epic Games is working to bring Fortnite to Linux via the Epic Games Launcher, but it requires support from Linux distribution maintainers for anti-cheat upgrades and has no release date. While Steam Deck compatibility is a possibility, it is not confirmed. The plan involves rebuilding Easy Anti-Cheat for Linux, with Fortnite serving as the initial test case.
The lead developer of the PS5 Linux project has abandoned ship: 'It is just a bunch of noobs using LLMs and writing…
The lead developer of the open-source project to run Ubuntu Linux on the PlayStation 5, Andy Nguyen, has announced he is stepping away from the project. Nguyen cited a decline in the scene's quality, with newcomers allegedly using AI tools without understanding, and the reporting of a critical hypervisor bug to Sony as reasons for his departure. This news comes as the project was working on PS5 Pro support.
Redditor turns Android phone into a desktop PC in a stroke of genius, sandwiching it between two huge CPU coolers so it…
A Redditor has successfully transformed an Android phone, the Nubia Z70 Ultra, into a functional desktop PC by integrating it with two large CPU coolers for enhanced thermal management. This impressive hardware modification allows the phone to run a Linux desktop environment with GPU acceleration and even play Windows games at playable frame rates using Wine and Box64, with The Witcher 3 achieving 20-30 fps at 1080p Ultra settings.
Virtual Reality Check
Valve has released a preview of its first Arm-based Arch Linux build for the Steam Deck. This update allows users to install and run Linux distributions on the handheld gaming PC, expanding its versatility beyond its native SteamOS.
Morning Tech Bits
AMD's new CPU core type has been unlocked on Linux prior to its official announcement, according to XDA. Additionally, a CNET article explores how the 1993 game Doom has become a legendary porting target, capable of running on any device with a screen.
Unlock The Potential Of Your Steam Deck/Machine With Decky Loader
This guide explains how to use Decky Loader, a third-party tool, to customize the SteamOS experience on devices like the Steam Deck and Steam Machine. It details the installation process and highlights useful plugins such as SteamGridDB for artwork, Tab Master for library organization, ProtonDB Badges for compatibility information, Deck Settings for performance tweaks, and Junk Store for accessing third-party game launchers.
Is SteamOS ready to replace Windows? I installed it so you don’t have to
This article explores whether SteamOS is a viable replacement for Windows in PC gaming. Despite its potential for a console-like experience, the author found that SteamOS is still in beta for most systems and requires significant technical expertise to install and troubleshoot, particularly concerning driver support and networking issues. While it may appeal to DIY enthusiasts, it is not yet ready for the average gamer.
Valve Releases SteamOS So Anyone Can Make A Steam Machine Now
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, making its Linux-based operating system available for all hardware configurations, allowing users to convert their existing PCs into Steam Machines. While discrete AMD GPU support is available now, Nvidia support is still in development. The Steam Machine hardware is set to go on sale on June 30.
Valve greenlights SteamOS installs on normal PCs with AMD GPUs, so you can go make your own Steam Machine if you…
Valve has officially greenlit the installation of SteamOS on standard PCs, provided they are equipped with AMD GPUs. This update, version 3.8, allows users to install the same operating system found on Steam Machines onto their own hardware, though support for other GPU manufacturers is pending. Previously, users could manually install older versions, but this marks Valve's official endorsement and aims to simplify the process for AMD users.
Evening Reading - June 22, 2026
This edition of Shacknews Evening Reading covers various gaming news and features. It includes reviews for The Adventures of Elliot and UFC 6, a preview of Rhythm Heaven Groove, and updates on Sega's new titles, Steam Machine components, and a potential Sea of Thieves live-action movie. The article also touches on Final Fantasy 7 Remake director's desire for original projects and the possibility of custom Steam Machines with an updated SteamOS.
You can now install SteamOS 3.8 on your standard gaming PC (with AMD GPU)
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, allowing users to install the Linux-based gaming operating system on their own PC hardware, provided they have an AMD GPU. While custom installs are in beta, this update enables users to run the same code as the Steam Machine on their personal computers. Support for Nvidia GPUs is planned for the future, but current custom installations require disabling Secure Boot and may encounter issues with specific hardware components.
I spent an entire day with a fan-mod of North Korea's homegrown operating system, and I'm sorry to say…
An attempt to install and run a fan-modded version of North Korea's RedStar OS 3.5 on a PC proved largely unsuccessful. Despite improvements over the base 2011 version, the modified OS still suffered from installation issues, graphical glitches, and an inability to run modern applications or games, highlighting the significant gap between the OS and contemporary computing standards.
The devs of EVE Online's survival spinoff are on a 'side quest' to get it on Steam Deck: 'Our goal is to get this to as many players as possible'
Developers at Fenris Creations are exploring Steam Deck compatibility for their upcoming MMO EVE Frontier, aiming to make the game accessible on as many platforms as possible. While not officially on the roadmap, the team is experimenting with Valve's handheld, noting that gamepad controls make it a strong candidate. The game's launcher and lack of traditional anti-cheat are minor hurdles compared to the initial challenge of implementing gamepad support.
Valve's latest SteamOS is out with 'initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware'
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, an update to its Arch-based Linux distribution for the Steam Deck and other hardware. This version introduces initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware and improves desktop mode performance by defaulting to Wayland over X11. The update also includes various other enhancements for display, audio, and system firmware across different Steam Deck models and compatible third-party handhelds.
Linux driver for vintage AMD GPUs gets an update with a helping hand from Copilot AI, keeping old hardware alive and…
An open-source Linux driver for vintage AMD Terascale architecture GPUs, specifically the R600 Gallium3D package for Mesa, has received an update. The refactoring of the shader compiler code was assisted by Microsoft's Copilot AI, helping to maintain support for hardware dating back to 2007.
KDE turns 30 this year - and they want your support
KDE is celebrating its 30th anniversary this October with a funding drive to increase regular donations and support its open-source projects like KDE Plasma. Plasma is notably used in SteamOS for devices like the Steam Deck. The organization, which also developed the original engine powering most web browsers, aims to grow its supporting member base and is planning global anniversary events.
SteamVR 2.16 arrives with a number of Linux fixes for VR fans
Valve has released SteamVR 2.16, bringing numerous bug fixes and improvements for the VR experience on PC, with a particular focus on Linux users. The update includes enhancements to VRLink on Linux, general Linux fixes, and various improvements to the dashboard, streaming, and core SteamVR functionality. It also addresses issues with specific hardware like HTC Vive and Varjo headsets, and improves compatibility for games like Pavlov and Into The Radius 2 on Meta Quest.
Saturday Tech Bits
AMD is expanding its Zen 6 family support within Linux, suggesting a broader range of upcoming CPUs. The article also touches on the ATX12VO V3 standard, which aims to reduce connector size and improve power efficiency with a new 8-pin design.
SteamOS 3.7.25 and 3.8.5 Beta released - bug fixes and better dGPU video memory management
Valve has released stable and beta updates for SteamOS, focusing on bug fixes and improved discrete GPU video memory management. SteamOS 3.7.25 includes general security and stability updates, while the 3.8.5 Beta addresses issues on Steam Deck OLED, desktop mode application memory, and control problems on the ASUS ROG Ally. The updates also bring enhancements for various third-party handhelds and prepare the system for upcoming hardware like the Steam Machine.
The PlayStation 5 Linux project has been upgraded to support more firmware
The Linux project for the PlayStation 5 has been updated to support a wider range of firmware versions, including 5.00 through 6.02. This expansion allows more users with the original "phat" model to transform their console into a capable Linux PC, leveraging its powerful hardware for desktop use, gaming, and emulation. The project continues to improve, with recent additions including a driver for the internal WLAN chip.
