About video game platforms
Video game platforms are specialized software environments that enable users to access, purchase, and play video games on various devices. Each platform serves a unique purpose, catering to specific gaming communities and hardware configurations. Here are two notable examples:
Steam: Steam is one of the most popular digital distribution platforms for PC gaming, developed by Valve Corporation. Launched in 2003, it originally served as a content delivery and digital rights management (DRM) platform for Valves games. Today, Steam boasts a vast library of games from various developers, offering features such as automatic updates, in-game achievements, and a robust community hub where users can share content and reviews. Valves continuous innovation with Steam, including the introduction of virtual reality (VR) support and the Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device, has solidified its reputation as a versatile gaming ecosystem.
PCSX2: PCSX2 is a notable example of a video game emulator, specifically designed to replicate the hardware of the Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2) on a personal computer. This open-source project allows users to play PS2 games with enhanced graphics and performance, taking advantage of modern PC hardware. Emulators like PCSX2 are invaluable for preserving gaming history, enabling players to experience classic titles that might otherwise be inaccessible due to the obsolescence of original hardware. However, the use of emulators often raises legal and ethical questions, particularly concerning copyright and software piracy.
Both Steam and PCSX2 exemplify how video game platforms can significantly enhance gaming experiences, each in its unique way. While Steam serves as a marketplace and community hub for modern games, PCSX2 preserves and enhances the legacy of the PlayStation 2. These platforms highlight the diverse methods through which technology continues to shape the gaming landscape.
Best video game platforms for Dragora GNU/Linux-Libre (formerly Dragora GNU/Linux)
| Platform | Description | Features | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCSX2 | PCSX2 is a PlayStation 2 emulator for Windows, Linux, and macOS. It aims to fully emulate the PS2 console to achieve the best experience for playing PS2 games on your computer. |
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PCSX2 Official Site |
| Steam | Steam is a popular digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation. It offers a wide range of games from various genres, alongside community features, automatic updates, and more. |
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Steam Official Site |
| Lutris | Lutris is an open-source gaming platform that enables you to install, manage, and play games across a wide array of systems, including Windows games via Wine, retro console games via emulation, and native Linux games. |
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Lutris Official Site |
| RetroArch | RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines, and media players. It allows you to run classic games on a wide range of computers and consoles through its slick graphical interface. |
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RetroArch Official Site |
| PlayOnLinux | PlayOnLinux is a graphical frontend for Wine, which enables you to easily install and run numerous Windows applications and games on Linux systems. Its user-friendly and aims to simplify running Windows applications. |
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PlayOnLinux Official Site |
| Dolphin | Dolphin is an emulator for two recent Nintendo video game consoles: the GameCube and the Wii. It allows you to play games for these two consoles on your PC with various enhancements. |
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Dolphin Official Site |
Comparison
Video Game Platforms Available for Dragora GNU/Linux-Libre
| Platform | Description | License | Games Supported | Multiplayer | Controller Support | Emulation | Native Games | Cross-Platform | Website | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | Popular gaming platform and digital distribution service. | Proprietary | Thousands | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Windows, macOS | link | Steam Workshop, cloud saves. |
| PCSX2 | PlayStation 2 emulator for playing PS2 games. | GNU GPLv2 | Over 95% of the PS2 library | Only via USB adapters | Partial | Yes | No | Windows | link | Save states, upscaling. |
| RetroArch | Front-end for emulators, game engines, and media players. | GNU GPLv3 | Retro and classic titles | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Windows, macOS | link | Shaders, netplay, rewinding. |
| Lutris | Open-source gaming platform that manages, installs, and launches games. | GNU GPLv3 | Many, including Windows games via Wine | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Windows | link | Game library management, install scripts. |
| Dolphin | GameCube and Wii emulator. | GNU GPLv2 | GameCube and Wii libraries | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Windows, macOS | link | HD texture packs, save states. |
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