Open Source
Ongoing coverage on Open Source.
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Godot devs are getting a helping hand from Microsoft to bring their games to Xbox on PC
Microsoft has released a reference software package to help developers using the open-source Godot engine create games for Xbox on PC. This initiative aims to expand Godot's user base by demonstrating how to implement Xbox services, PlayFab, and GameInput within a Godot-based game. While not a full Xbox version of Godot, Microsoft states this is a first step and plans to evolve it based on community feedback.
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.
X.Org Security Advisory released for 9 new vulnerabilities in X.Org X server and Xwayland
X.Org has released security advisories detailing nine new vulnerabilities affecting the X.Org X server and Xwayland. Versions xorg-server 21.1.23 and xwayland 24.1.12 have been released to address these issues, which include stack-based buffer overflows and use-after-free flaws, some of which were discovered with the assistance of AI.
Yet another rad gaming tool parts ways with Microsoft
The open-source compatibility tool Luxtorpeda has migrated from GitHub to Codeberg due to ongoing issues with GitHub's stability and its AI initiatives. This move follows similar departures by other projects like Ghostty and Gentoo, citing concerns over platform instability and forced AI tool usage.
Flathub moves to ban nearly all apps and submissions made with generative AI
Flathub, a popular Linux application distribution platform, has implemented a new policy that largely bans applications and submissions created with generative AI. While exceptions may be made for mature projects, the policy explicitly disallows AI-generated code, documentation, and submission processes, aiming to clarify rules for developers and users.
OpenRCT2 project - Open-Source adaption of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 reaches v0.5.1
The OpenRCT2 project, an open-source adaptation of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2, has released its latest build, version 0.5.1. This update brings numerous improvements to the classic theme park simulation game, including new features, bug fixes, and raised game limits, enhancing aspects like FPS and resolution.
Linux and open source getting age checking exemptions could be problematic
Exemptions for age-checking laws in operating systems could create significant problems for Linux and open-source software. While intended to protect users, these laws may lead to services and applications blocking Linux users entirely due to implementation hurdles and the fragmented nature of the Linux desktop. This adds to existing issues like DRM and anti-cheat compatibility, potentially hindering user adoption.
Proton-CachyOS adds low latency layer and Discord rich presence support
Proton-CachyOS version 11.0-20260519 has been released, introducing support for a new open-source low-latency layer and Discord Rich Presence integration. This update includes fixes for color management, mouse pointer warping, and video playback, along with improvements to Wine and updated patches from Proton Experimental Bleeding Edge.
A love letter to the Quake series, free and open source FPS Quetoo is out now
Quetoo, a free and open-source first-person shooter inspired by the classic Quake series, has been released after 19 years of development. It features classic gameplay modes like Deathmatch and Capture the Flag, remakes of legendary maps from Quake, Quake 2, and Quake 3, modern rendering features, and cross-platform support for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Colorado and California age verification bills exempt open source operating systems
New age verification laws in Colorado and California will exempt open source operating systems and applications. The Colorado bill, effective July 1, 2028, and the California bill, effective January 1, 2027, both include similar exemptions for software distributed under licenses that permit modification and redistribution. This distinction is expected to benefit Linux distributions and devices like the Steam Deck, while proprietary systems like Windows will still be subject to the regulations.
Saturday Patches
An open-source replacement for the game Rocksmith, named Slopsmith, has been released. The project is free and aims to provide an alternative for players of the music simulation game.
KDE gets over €1 million in funding from the Sovereign Tech Fund
Germany's Sovereign Tech Fund has awarded over €1.2 million to KDE for the development of its Plasma desktop and Linux-related projects. This funding, spanning 2026 and 2027, aims to bolster open-source technology and digital infrastructure resilience. Fiona Krakenbürger of the Sovereign Tech Agency highlighted KDE's crucial role in providing access to digital services for millions.
Further expanded AMD HDMI 2.1 support is coming to Linux now with FRL and DSC
AMD's Linux GPU kernel drivers are expanding their HDMI 2.1 support with the addition of FRL and DSC features. These updates aim to enable higher resolutions and refresh rates for AMD graphics cards on Linux, potentially appearing in future Linux kernel releases. This development is significant for Linux gamers and the Steam Machine platform.
"Stop submitting AI slop code": PS3 emulator RPCS3 shuts down vibe coders, tells them to "learn how to debug, code, and leave behind something useful to humanity when you're gone"
The open-source PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3 has updated its policies to address the influx of AI-generated code submissions, often referred to as "vibe coding." The project will now ban users who submit AI-generated code without proper disclosure and will require explicit statements detailing the scope of AI involvement and human testing.
Dusk is a reverse-engineered reimplementation of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
A new open-source project called Dusk has been released, offering a reverse-engineered reimplementation of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for PC. This project allows players to experience the game on platforms like PC and Steam Deck, with a native Linux version available. Dusk does not include copyrighted assets, requiring users to provide their own copy of the original game.
Ubuntu servers restored after DDoS attack sends services down for days
Canonical, the company behind the Ubuntu operating system, has confirmed that its services, including websites and repositories, are back online after a major Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. The attack, which began around April 30th and lasted for five days, disrupted critical infrastructure and access to security updates. While services are largely restored, some degraded performance may still be experienced as systems fully recover.
Disgusting! Depraved monster adds effective quest markers to Morrowind, shows no remorse
A new mod called Quest Markers Plus for The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind, specifically for the OpenMW engine, adds effective quest markers to the game. This mod aims to reduce player frustration by clearly indicating quest objectives, similar to modern game design. The author humorously suggests the modder deserves to be imprisoned for making the game easier.
Valve released the new Steam Controller and Puck CAD files for modders
Valve has released the CAD files for the Steam Controller and Puck under a Creative Commons license, enabling modders to design and create accessories. This move follows Valve's similar open approach with the Steam Deck hardware, encouraging community innovation in hardware modification.
RAZER AIKIT EXPANDS TO OMNI-MODAL AI AND ARM64 ARCHITECTURES
Razer has expanded its free, open-source AI development toolkit, AIKit, to support image, video, and audio models, along with Arm64 architectures. The update enables developers to build and deploy AI models locally without cloud subscriptions, offering faster iteration and predictable costs. The toolkit powered Razer's AVA Mini April Fools campaign, demonstrating significant cost reductions in inference compared to traditional cloud APIs.
Germany's Sovereign Tech Agency launches Sovereign Tech Standards to support open standards
Germany's Sovereign Tech Agency has launched the Sovereign Tech Standards initiative to support open source maintainers. This program will provide funding, training, and mentoring to individuals contributing to open standards through organizations like the IETF, W3C, and ISO, ensuring digital infrastructure remains interoperable and open.
