Exploring Game Consoles that Can Run Linux: Unlocking New Gaming Possibilities

The world of gaming consoles has evolved dramatically over the years. While traditional consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo provide fantastic gaming experiences, there’s an exciting shift happening in the gaming landscape—Linux-powered consoles. Running Linux on your gaming console opens up a world of flexibility, customization, and access to a diverse range of games and applications. In this blog, we’ll dive into which game consoles can run Linux, how Linux enhances the gaming experience, and explore the game support available for these systems.

Why Use Linux for Gaming Consoles?

Linux is an open-source operating system that offers several advantages over traditional console software. It’s lightweight, customizable, and supports a wide variety of gaming platforms. Here are some key benefits of running Linux on a game console:

1. Customization: With Linux, you can customize your console’s operating system to suit your needs. You can install different gaming emulators, modify system settings, and even develop your own games or applications.

2. Access to Open-Source Games: Linux has a robust library of open-source games that you can easily download and play for free. It also supports classic games and emulators, allowing you to relive the nostalgia of retro gaming.

3. Expanded Game Library: Linux can run a wide variety of games, including both native Linux titles and those available through platforms like Steam (via SteamOS, a Linux-based system). Plus, you can run Windows-based games using compatibility layers like Wine or Proton.

4. Performance: Linux is known for its efficiency and performance. For those who enjoy optimizing their system, Linux allows you to fine-tune settings to enhance gaming performance, reducing lag and improving frame rates.

5. Flexibility and Freedom: Unlike proprietary systems, Linux is open-source, meaning you can modify, share, and distribute the software however you like. This makes it a great choice for hobbyists and tech-savvy gamers.

Which Game Consoles Can Run Linux?

Several modern and retro game consoles can be modified to run Linux, offering a unique gaming experience. Let’s look at some of the most popular ones:

1. Raspberry Pi (Raspberry Pi 4 and Other Models)

The Raspberry Pi is a popular single-board computer that can easily run Linux and is often used as a DIY gaming console. With Linux installed, you can play retro games through emulators or run full-fledged PC games using Linux-compatible platforms like Steam. The Pi also runs several custom Linux distributions, including RetroPie, which is specifically designed for retro gaming.

Supported Games: Retro games from classic consoles (SNES, NES, Sega Genesis) and PC games via Steam (using Proton).

Learn more about Raspberry Pi and Linux gaming

2. Open Source R36 Pro Retro Handheld Console

The R36 Pro, a popular handheld gaming console, runs a Linux-based system that supports a wide range of retro games. It comes with 128GB of preloaded games and allows users to install additional games via the open-source Linux environment. The ability to install emulators and customize settings makes the R36 Pro a powerful Linux gaming device.

Supported Games: Retro games from consoles like NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and arcade titles. Users can also run games from Linux-compatible platforms.

Check out the Open Source R36 Pro here

3. Steam Deck

Valve’s Steam Deck is a portable gaming console that runs SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system. The Steam Deck allows you to play your Steam library on the go and supports a wide range of PC games. The flexibility of Linux means that you can install other game stores or emulators, expanding your gaming options.

Supported Games: Thousands of Steam games, from AAA titles to indie gems. The Steam Deck also supports Windows games via dual-boot or compatibility layers like Proton.

Learn more about the Steam Deck

4. PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 (via Jailbreaking)

While not officially supported, both the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 can run Linux with some modifications (like jailbreaking). These modifications allow you to install a Linux operating system and access a range of Linux-compatible games and emulators. However, jailbreaking voids the warranty and is not recommended for casual users.

Supported Games: Linux-based games, retro games via emulators, and certain PC games with the right setup.

Visit PlayStation’s official website

5. Nintendo Switch (via Homebrew)

The Nintendo Switch can also run Linux, thanks to homebrew software and custom firmware. While this requires technical knowledge, it opens the door to a wide array of possibilities, including running Linux-based games, emulators, and even some PC games. As with the PlayStation consoles, using homebrew software can void warranties.

Supported Games: Linux-based games, retro games, and certain homebrew titles.

Explore Nintendo’s official website

What Systems Can Be Used for Gaming Consoles?

In addition to the consoles above, several other systems and platforms can be utilized to enhance the gaming experience. Here are a few alternatives:

SteamOS

SteamOS is a Linux-based operating system created by Valve. It’s designed to run on the Steam Machine (Valve’s gaming console) and the Steam Deck. SteamOS allows you to play thousands of games from the Steam library, and because it’s based on Linux, it offers flexibility for customization and the use of other platforms.

Ubuntu GamePack

Ubuntu GamePack is a Linux distribution designed specifically for gamers. It includes a vast selection of pre-installed games, supports Steam, and is compatible with a wide range of gaming peripherals.

Linux Gaming Distros

There are also specialized Linux distributions (distros) tailored for gaming. Some popular ones include:

• Pop!_OS: A powerful Linux distro from System76, optimized for gaming and hardware compatibility.
• Lakka: A retro gaming distro that turns your computer into a retro gaming console.
• PlayStation Linux: An unofficial Linux build for PlayStation consoles, enabling access to a larger pool of games and open-source apps.

Linux Game Support: What Games Work on Linux?

Many modern PC games now support Linux natively, and with compatibility layers like Proton and Wine, you can run almost any Windows game on a Linux-powered console. Popular platforms like Steam and GOG have increased support for Linux-based systems, making it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite games on Linux-powered consoles.

Top Linux-supported games include:

• The Witcher 3
• Civilization VI
• Dota 2
• Hollow Knight
• Stardew Valley
• Fortnite (via Proton)

Conclusion

Running Linux on your gaming console unlocks a world of new possibilities, from retro gaming to modern titles. Whether you’re using a Raspberry Pi, Steam Deck, or custom Linux setup on a PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, the flexibility and power of Linux can enhance your gaming experience. With an open-source operating system, access to a variety of games, and the freedom to customize, Linux is a game-changer for console gaming.

Ready to start your Linux-powered gaming journey? Check out the available Linux-compatible consoles and get started today!

---

Explore more about the Open Source R36 Pro Retro Handheld Console
Learn more about the Steam Deck
Visit PlayStation
Explore Nintendo

Let me know if you'd like to adjust anything!