It appears that Linux is on the verge of becoming a viable gaming OS. With several Indie titles jumping across platforms, Valve optimizing their Source engine, and the release of the Linux-based SteamOS, the free PC operating system is generating a lot of buzz within the gaming industry. Higher-end games may be on the horizon for Linux, as developer Crytek is bringing CRYENGINE support onto the platform.
Often viewed as an operating system for programmers and script writers, Linux is a lightweight OS with several different variations. With versions such as Debian, Ubuntu, and the Raspberry Pi-specific Raspbian, Linux comes in several customized packages, all of which are free of charge. While it may lag behind the Windows and Mac systems for gaming support, Linux is slowly becoming another alternative OS choice for PC gamers. Several popular Indie titles have been released on Linux through online distribution services like Humble Bundle and Steam. As with their Mac OS debut, several Valve titles were released alongside Steam for Linux, including Portal 2, Left 4 Dead 2, Garry’s Mod and the Counter Strike series (except for Global Offense, which is currently in-development).
According to an announcement listed on Crytek’s official website, the developer will be showcasing free-to-play shooter Warface, new mobile game The Collectibles, and a Linux-optimized build of CRYENGINE. The fourth iteration of Crytek’s signature graphics engine, CRYENGINE was most recently used in the development of the Xbox One exclusive action title, Ryse: Son of Rome. Like the usage of CryEngine 3 for the 2013 sci-fi FPS Crysis 3, CRYENGINE is praised for its depiction of real-world physics simulation, dynamic indoor and outdoor lighting, and amazingly detailed geometric tessellation.
The Collectables, developed with partner DeNA will also be featured at Crytek’s GDC booth. Also developed using CRYENGINE, The Collectables is an isometric, class-based card-game shooter planned to release this year for iPad, iPhone and Android devices. Those who preregister a copy will receive an exclusive version of an in-game character, equipped with limited-edition gear.
GDC 2014 begins on March 17, with the actual expo running March 19-21. As Indie developers, Valve, and now Crytek seem to believe that Linux can turn into an alternative gaming platform for PC, what are your thoughts on the OS? Will Linux ever become a popular platform for gaming? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think!