Does Linux Have a Game Console?

While Linux itself isn't specifically a "game console," there are several gaming consoles and handheld devices that run on Linux-based operating systems. These devices leverage Linux for their flexibility, open-source nature, and cost-effectiveness. Many of these consoles are either open-source or have custom Linux builds optimized for gaming, offering a great alternative to traditional consoles like the PlayStation or Xbox.

Here are some notable examples of game consoles that use Linux:

1. Steam Deck (by Valve)

• Operating System: SteamOS (based on Linux)
• Description: The Steam Deck is a portable handheld gaming device developed by Valve, the creators of Steam. It runs a custom version of SteamOS, which is based on Linux. It is designed to allow players to access their Steam library and play PC games on the go.
• Linux Advantage: Because it runs Linux, the Steam Deck benefits from the open-source nature of the OS, allowing the community to customize and tweak it. It can also run other operating systems, including Windows, if users want to access non-Steam games.
• Gaming: The Steam Deck supports many games natively through Proton (for Windows games) and SteamOS (for Linux-based games).

Learn more about Steam Deck

2. PlayStation 3 (PS3) and Linux (via OtherOS)

• Operating System: Linux (through the now-discontinued OtherOS feature)
• Description: The PlayStation 3 initially supported Linux through a feature called OtherOS, which allowed users to install a Linux distribution alongside the PS3’s default operating system. This feature was removed in a firmware update in 2010 but was popular among developers and hobbyists.
• Gaming: While the PS3 did not run Linux for native gaming, enthusiasts could install Linux and run certain Linux-compatible games and emulators.

3. GPD Win Series (Handheld Gaming PCs)

• Operating System: Linux (optional)
• Description: The GPD Win series consists of portable gaming laptops that run Windows, but they can also run Linux. The GPD Win 3, Win 2, and Win Max models are all capable of running Linux, with some users opting for a Linux-based OS to enhance performance and customize their system.
• Gaming: These handhelds can run PC games and retro games through emulators, and Linux provides a flexible, open-source environment for users to install a variety of gaming platforms and services.

Learn more about GPD Win

4. RetroPie (on Raspberry Pi)

• Operating System: Linux (Raspberry Pi OS with RetroPie)
• Description: RetroPie is a popular gaming platform that runs on Raspberry Pi devices. It allows users to emulate a variety of retro gaming consoles, such as NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy. RetroPie is built on top of Raspberry Pi OS, which is based on Linux.
• Gaming: RetroPie can run thousands of retro games through emulation. It's an ideal platform for people who want a Linux-based retro gaming console for old-school gaming experiences.

Learn more about RetroPie

5. Pandora's Box (Handheld Retro Console)

• Operating System: Linux
• Description: Pandora's Box is a popular arcade game console that comes pre-loaded with hundreds of retro games. It runs on a customized Linux OS and is often used as an affordable gaming device for emulation.
• Gaming: Pandora's Box offers a wide variety of retro games and can also emulate arcade machines, making it a fun choice for users who want a Linux-based console for nostalgic gaming.

6. Nvidia Shield TV

• Operating System: Android (based on Linux)
• Description: While not a traditional game console, the Nvidia Shield TV runs Android TV, which is based on Linux. It offers access to games through Nvidia GeForce NOW (cloud gaming), Steam, and various Android gaming apps. It also supports local game streaming from your PC to the TV.
• Gaming: The Nvidia Shield TV can stream PC games from Steam or the GeForce NOW service, and users can install Android-based games directly from the Google Play Store.

Learn more about Nvidia Shield TV

7. OpenPandora (Discontinued, Linux-based)

• Operating System: Linux
• Description: The OpenPandora was an open-source, Linux-based handheld console. While it is no longer being produced, it was one of the first to offer a Linux OS for handheld gaming, capable of running emulators, homebrew games, and software from a variety of platforms.
• Gaming: The OpenPandora could run games via emulation, and users could install custom software on the device due to its open-source nature.

Conclusion:

While Linux doesn’t have a widely recognized dedicated gaming console like PlayStation or Xbox, it has powered several successful gaming platforms, especially in the handheld and emulation spaces. The Steam Deck, in particular, is the most prominent and is backed by Valve’s push to make Linux gaming more mainstream. Additionally, platforms like RetroPie (on Raspberry Pi) and GPD Win devices provide users with Linux-based environments for retro and PC gaming, respectively.

These Linux-powered gaming consoles showcase the flexibility and power of Linux for gamers, offering a more customizable and open experience compared to traditional closed platforms.