Best Linux Distro for Gaming 2025 (Play Steam & Retro)

Gaming on Linux is getting more advanced. But some Linux distributions can be used to play right out from the start. To make things simpler for those searching for the best Linux distro for gaming, I’ve created this brief collection of the best Linux distros specifically designed for play. It’s a mixture of general-purpose distros specifically designed for gaming, and those designed to support playing on portable devices such as the Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go, along the ASUS ROG Ally, and even some specifically designed for retro gaming.

At first, Linux was not the most compatible operating system for games. Failure was caused mainly due to insufficient hardware support, particularly regarding graphics cards. Today, Linux has gained in popularity and offers several distributions to choose from. It’s more compatible with gaming than ever before.

Plenty of developers are interested in creating games that are accessible not just to the top two but also to Linux. As long as you’ve got the appropriate distribution, playing on the Linux machine is equally satisfying. It begs the question, “What is the best Linux distro for gaming?”

What Is The Best Linux Distro For Gaming?

If we told you that game developers were keen on bringing Linux to the gaming industry, we weren’t lying. There are thousands of games to choose from on Linux. Although you may be able to turn any Linux distribution into a gaming system, there are specifically designed for gaming in mind.

Each distro comes pre-configured for gaming, so that you don’t have to spend endless hours setting everything up. Instead, you can immediately start playing. The issue is in choosing the best Linux distro for gaming.

Also read: Top 10 Reasons to Switch to PC Gaming

5 Best Linux Distro for Gaming 2025

In this article, we list the best Linux distro for gaming. You can determine which you prefer by looking at the list and then deciding which is the best Linux distro for gaming.

1. Game Drift Linux

For those familiar with Ubuntu but new to Linux games, Game Drift Linux (GDL) is the ideal distribution. GDL came onto the scene in the year 2011 and launched the initial Linux Game Store, featuring both commercial and open source games.

The partnership with Codeweavers lets the store use Codeweaver CrossOver technology within the store. It gave customers over 1,200 different Windows games to pick from, and they could download them in just one click.

GDL can run on a wide range of PCs, although the games could require additional system requirements to play. While it could be one of the most comprehensive Linux gaming distros due to the popularity and accessibility of PlayOnLinux, GDL is no longer maintained.

It is built on Ubuntu, which means the community support remains good even though it’s self-operating.

• Highlights: Features the first Linux Game Store and over 1,200 Windows titles via CodeWeavers CrossOver.
• Pros: Excellent for beginners familiar with Ubuntu; one-click installs.
• Cons: No longer maintained.
• Verdict: Legacy support remains through Ubuntu, but consider modern alternatives.

2. Lakka

Based on the Media Center software LibreELEC, Lakka is a lighter version of Linux that turns your computer into a retro gaming console. It works with all keyboards and wireless console controllers, such as those of PS3, PS4, and Xbox 360.

Lakka is the best Linux gaming distro for those who like retro gaming, which uses RetroArch to integrate a frontend directly emulator built into the operating system. Because of copyright reasons, Lakka does not come with pre-installed games. You’ll require ISO image files, the original game disc, or precompiled arcade game ROM files to play the games.

This distro is also very adaptable, with the ability to install on various hardware devices, such as x86 PCs, the Raspberry Pi, and more. The user interface is simple to navigate. The operating systems themselves are built into Kodi.

For those who love retro games, Lakka will provide a console-like experience with emulators that allow you to keep all your favorite games in one place.

• Highlights: Turns your PC into a retro console using RetroArch.
• Pros: Lightweight, controller support (PS3, PS4, Xbox 360), works on PCs & Raspberry Pi.
• Cons: No pre-installed games (requires ROMs or ISOs).
• Verdict: Perfect for retro gamers seeking a console-like interface.

3. SparkyLinux GameOver

Sparky Linux is the best Linux distro for gaming based on Debian. It is packed with features like a Linux gaming platform application for web browser installation that allows gamers to play online games.

GameOver Edition also includes APTus Gamer, which allows for a variety of game emulator downloads to play and retro console games. Gaming programs such as Wine, PlayOnLinux, and Steam will already be installed, providing even avid Steam gamers with plenty of entertainment thanks to robust support for games on this distro.

The graphical interface user is OpenBox, which is robust, but not as refined as the other alternatives available. If you are a fervent Linux user will find a solution by opting to download an alternative user interface, for sure.

Sparky isn’t one of the most widely known or popular Linux distros for gaming. This is because support is not as extensive. Although obtaining help on official forums is easy and fast, their community remains small compared to others on similar topics, leaving most to grapple with things on their own.

• Highlights: Includes Steam, Lutris, Wine, and PlayOnLinux preinstalled.
• Pros: Wide emulator support; supports online and retro gaming.
• Cons: Smaller community and less polish compared to major distros.
• Verdict: A solid option for experienced users wanting flexibility.

4. Ubuntu GamePack

Ubuntu GamePack can be provided by the same developers who created UALinux. DOSBox and DOSEmu come preinstalled as emulators on this Linux- and Mac-compatible gaming system, offering two platforms to allow for streaming on Steam and the Lutris Gaming Platform. These enable users to play over 100 different games.

Furthermore, Ubuntu GamePack includes Wine and PlayOnLinux, which makes games that you already have playable. This will enhance the appeal of Ubuntu GamePack since, similarly to Lakka, it doesn’t have any games pre-compiled. The distro supports Adobe Flash and Java, so you can play online games. It also offers a huge hardware support for video controllers, video cards, and many other devices.

Its foundation on the best Linux distro for gaming, Ubuntu, is a great way for anybody to download and set up quickly. If you’re not averse to the resource-intensive issue that plagues Ubuntu, Ubuntu GamePack is undoubtedly one of the best Linux distro for gaming.

• Highlights: Supports Steam, Lutris, Wine, and PlayOnLinux; runs DOSBox and DosEmu.
• Pros: Great hardware compatibility and supports Java & Flash for browser games.
• Cons: Can be resource-heavy.
• Verdict: Reliable for those who prefer Ubuntu’s familiarity and full gaming support.

Also read: Top 5 Linux Firewalls for Network Security

5. SteamOS

Another Debian-based distro, this one is specifically created for use with Valve’s Steam platform. SteamOS is likely to most similar Linux distro to a gaming console. The whole focus of the Linux distro has been mostly on gaming.

In the beginning, SteamOS was created specifically for originally, it was designed for Steam Machine. However, Valve has seen fit to eliminate them from the official store, but it still provides only limited support for Linux distros.

The distro is only an install and is compatible with 64-bit computers. It also requires quite a large amount of memory – 200GB of free space on your hard drive, with an Nvidia, AMD (Radeon 8500 and later), or Intel GPU. Out of the box, you will find drivers ready to go to support a huge variety of video cards and controllers/joysticks. SteamOS also uses a range of proprietary drivers, which means that SteamOS isn’t open-source software.

SteamOS is a Linux distro with demanding system requirements, and it isn’t fully open source. It is, however, Linux users looking for an easy integration with Steam’s Steam Store for playing Steam games will discover the most reliable Linux distro for gaming on SteamOS.

• Highlights: Developed by Valve for the Steam platform.
• Pros: Seamless Steam integration, console-like experience, supports various GPUs.
• Cons: Limited to the Steam ecosystem; lacks PlayOnLinux/Wine; high system requirements.
• Verdict: Best for dedicated Steam gamers seeking console-style Linux gaming.

Final Word

Linux distros for gaming have become a powerful choice for players in 2025. With options like SteamOS, Ubuntu GamePack, and Lakka, gamers can enjoy smooth performance, Steam support, and retro compatibility. The best Linux distro for gaming ensures flexibility, speed, and reliability for both casual and pro gamers alike.

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