Can You Run Old Games on Linux? A Step-by-Step Guide

Yes, you can run old games on Linux! Thanks to various compatibility layers and emulators, you can enjoy many of your favorite classic games on Linux systems, even those that were originally designed for older platforms like Windows, DOS, or even consoles.

In this blog, we'll take a closer look at how you can run old games on Linux, which games are compatible, and the steps to get started. Plus, we’ll include links to videos that guide you through the process.

What Are the Ways to Run Old Games on Linux?

There are a few different methods you can use to play old games on Linux:

  1. Using Wine:

    • Wine is a compatibility layer that allows you to run Windows applications (including games) on Linux. Many old Windows games work with Wine.

  2. Using Proton:

    • Proton is a tool built into Steam that allows you to play Windows games on Linux. It’s particularly great for older titles and games that are not available natively on Linux.

  3. Using Emulators:

    • For classic console games (e.g., NES, SNES, PlayStation, Sega Genesis), you can use emulators. Programs like RetroArch and PCSX2 let you emulate old consoles and run games from those systems.

  4. Using DOSBox:

    • DOSBox is an emulator that lets you run DOS-based games. Many old PC games from the 80s and 90s were designed to run on MS-DOS, and DOSBox makes it easy to play these games on modern systems.

  5. Using Lutris:

    • Lutris is an open-source gaming platform that supports a variety of emulators, compatibility layers, and installers to help you run old games on Linux. It’s great for managing games from various platforms.

Which Old Games Can Run on Linux?

Many classic games are compatible with Linux, either natively or through the use of the above methods. Here’s a list of some old games you can run on Linux:

1. Starcraft (1998)

  • How to Run: Playable on Linux using Wine or Proton.
  • Game Info: This classic real-time strategy game is still popular today, and with a few tweaks, it runs great on Linux.
  • Website: Starcraft Remastered on Blizzard

2. The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002)

  • How to Run: Available on Steam and can be played using Wine or Proton on Linux.
  • Game Info: A beloved RPG that set the stage for later games in the Elder Scrolls series.
  • Website: Morrowind on Steam

3. Diablo II (2000)

  • How to Run: Wine or Proton can be used to run this classic action RPG.
  • Game Info: The legendary action RPG, known for its addictive gameplay and loot system, works on Linux.
  • Website: Diablo II Resurrected on Blizzard

4. Doom (1993)

  • How to Run: Doom can be easily played on Linux using DOSBox or the Chocolate Doom port.
  • Game Info: The original first-person shooter that changed the gaming landscape, Doom is as playable as ever.
  • Website: Doom on Steam

5. Baldur's Gate II (2000)

  • How to Run: Available on GOG, and playable using Wine or Proton.
  • Game Info: One of the best RPGs of all time, this game is a great example of how old-school games can still be enjoyed.
  • Website: Baldur’s Gate II on GOG

6. Age of Empires II (1999)

7. Quake (1996)

  • How to Run: Quake runs on Linux using Wine or Proton and is often bundled with open-source ports.
  • Game Info: One of the earliest 3D first-person shooters, Quake is iconic in gaming history.
  • Website: Quake on Steam

8. Command & Conquer: Red Alert (1996)

  • How to Run: Wine or Proton can run it on Linux.
  • Game Info: This classic real-time strategy game is one of the best in the genre and can still be played on modern Linux systems.
  • Website: Command & Conquer on Origin

9. Final Fantasy VII (1997)

  • How to Run: Available on Steam, playable via Wine or Proton.
  • Game Info: The landmark JRPG works on Linux through Proton or Wine, making it easy to enjoy on modern machines.
  • Website: Final Fantasy VII on Steam

Steps to Run Old Games on Linux

Step 1: Install Wine or Proton

  • Wine: Install Wine from your Linux distribution’s package manager (e.g., sudo apt install wine for Ubuntu).
  • Proton: If you use Steam, Proton is built into the client. Simply enable Proton from Steam’s settings under Steam Play.

Step 2: Use DOSBox for DOS Games

  • Install DOSBox from your package manager or download it from the DOSBox official website.
  • To run a DOS game, just open DOSBox, mount the directory with the game files, and run the executable.

Step 3: Use Lutris for Multiple Platforms

  • Lutris allows you to install and manage games from Windows, DOS, consoles, and emulators.
  • Install Lutris from Lutris.org, and follow their instructions to install old games.

Step 4: Play Console Games with RetroArch

  • For retro console games (NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, etc.), RetroArch is a powerful emulator. Install it via your package manager or the RetroArch website.

Video Tutorials to Help You Set Up

  1. How to Install Wine on Linux: YouTube Video
  2. How to Play Old Games Using Proton on Steam: YouTube Video
  3. Setting Up DOSBox for Classic DOS Games: YouTube Video
  4. Using Lutris for Game Installation: YouTube Video
  5. Playing Retro Games with RetroArch on Linux: YouTube Video

Conclusion

Linux offers a wide variety of tools to play old games, whether through Wine, Proton, emulators, or other compatibility layers. Many beloved classic games from DOS, Windows, and older consoles can still be enjoyed on modern Linux machines with just a bit of setup.

By using the methods described above, you can relive the nostalgia of your childhood or discover old gems that you missed out on. Plus, with a wealth of community support and guides available, it's easier than ever to run your favorite old-school games on Linux. So, dust off those discs or digital downloads and start gaming!

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