About video game platforms
Video game platforms such as Steam and PCSX2 play integral roles in the gaming ecosystem, offering diverse functionalities tailored to varying needs of gamers and developers alike.
Steam, developed by Valve Corporation, is a digital distribution platform that revolutionized game purchasing and playing. Its essentially an online store that enables users to buy, download, and play a vast array of games. Steam also offers community features like friends lists, group chats, and game forums, creating a social nexus for gamers. Additionally, it provides developers with tools for easier content distribution and update management. Steams Proton compatibility layer even allows many Windows games to run on Linux, widening access for non-Windows users.
On the other hand, PCSX2 is an emulator specifically designed for the Sony PlayStation 2 console. Emulators like PCSX2 enable games designed for specific hardware to be played on different devices, usually PCs. PCSX2 allows fans to revisit their favorite PS2 titles using modern computers, often with improved graphics and performance settings unattainable on the original hardware. Unlike platforms like Steam, which distribute games legally and commercially, emulators often reside in a gray area of legality, depending on how they are used and how the game BIOS and data are obtained.
Both platforms highlight the diverse ways in which video games can be accessed and enjoyed. Steam offers a modern, legal, and user-friendly approach to game distribution and community interaction. In contrast, PCSX2 provides a nostalgic journey by bringing past console experiences into the present. Each serves unique purposes and caters to different facets of gaming culture, from mainstream distribution to retro emulation.
Best video game platforms for Absolute Linux
| Platform | Description | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| Steam | Steam is a digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation for purchasing and playing video games. It offers a vast library of games ranging from AAA titles to indie games. Steam is known for its community features, constant sales, and regular updates. It also has a built-in feature called Proton which allows you to play many Windows-only games on Linux. | https://store.steampowered.com/ |
| Lutris | Lutris is an open-source gaming platform for Linux. It allows you to install and manage your games across multiple sources including Steam, GOG, and your own game files. Lutris supports community-driven installation scripts that make it easier to configure games, especially Windows games through Wine. | https://lutris.net/ |
| PCSX2 | PCSX2 is a free and open-source PlayStation 2 emulator. It allows you to play games originally intended for the PS2 on your Linux machine. PCSX2 offers enhanced graphics that surpass the capabilities of the original console, save-states, and controller support. Its one of the best ways to experience PS2 games today. | https://pcsx2.net/ |
| RetroArch | RetroArch is an open-source front-end for emulators, game engines, and media players. It provides a unified interface for managing your retro gaming emulation needs including support for a variety of consoles like SNES, NES, Sega Genesis, and more. RetroArch offers shaders, netplay, and rewinding among its many features. | https://www.retroarch.com/ |
| PlayOnLinux | PlayOnLinux is a graphical frontend for Wine, tailored for running Windows games and applications on Linux. It simplifies the process of installing software by providing pre-configured installation scripts. With PlayOnLinux, you can easily manage different versions of Wine and keep your gaming environment organized. | https://www.playonlinux.com/ |
| Heroic Games Launcher | Heroic Games Launcher is an Open Source Game Launcher for Linux, Windows, and macOS that allows you to use non-Steam DRM-free games from platforms like Epic Games. It provides a user-friendly interface and manages your game installations and updates automatically. | https://heroicgameslauncher.com/ |
| Game Jolt | Game Jolt is an indie game hosting platform where developers can upload and share their games. It offers a wide range of free games and has a community-driven approach. You can find unique and creative games from independent developers and support them directly. | https://gamejolt.com/ |
| itch.io | itch.io is another platform for hosting, selling, and buying indie games. It supports a pay-what-you-want pricing model and is known for its massive array of indie games, game jams, and a vibrant community. itch.io also provides tools for developers to manage their games and customer interactions. | https://itch.io/ |
| GOG.com | GOG.com (Good Old Games) is a digital distribution platform offering DRM-free games. The platform features a curated collection of games, both classic games and new releases, along with additional content like manuals and soundtracks. GOG Galaxy, their optional client, provides a unified library for your games from multiple sources. | https://www.gog.com/ |
Comparison
Video Game Platforms for Absolute Linux
| Platform | Category | License | Repository Link | Multiplayer Support | System Requirements | Popular Games | Controller Support | Graphics API | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | Digital Distribution | Proprietary | Link | Yes | Moderate | Dota 2, CS:GO | Yes | Vulkan, OpenGL | Game library, Friends Network |
| PCSX2 | Emulator | GPL | Link | No | Low | Final Fantasy X, Persona 4 | Yes | DirectX, OpenGL | Save states, Cheats |
| Lutris | Game Manager | GPL | Link | Varies | Low | Overwatch, Wine games | Yes | Vulkan, OpenGL | Game library, Custom scripts |
| RetroArch | Front-end for emulators | GPL | Link | Yes | Very Low | Mega Man, Super Mario Bros. | Yes | Vulkan, OpenGL | Shaders, Netplay |
| Wine | Compatibility Layer | LGPL | Link | Varies | Low to Moderate | World of Warcraft, Skyrim | Yes | DirectX, OpenGL | Windows integration, Library overrides |
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