Canonical has today announced on their blog that the Steam for Linux client has now officially arrived in the Ubuntu Software Center and is now available to download.
To celebrate the arrival of Steam in the Ubuntu Software Center, Canonical has reduced the price of every Ubuntu title in the store for a limited period. These titles are now on sale with 50-75 percent off, until 10am on Monday, 21st February 2013.
So don’t delay if you are looking to bag awesome Valve titles on Ubuntu, including Half-Life, Counter-Strike, and Team Fortress 2, which is free-to-play. Canonical explains:
“Canonical and Valve have worked closely together to make Ubuntu the best performing open platform for gaming and now the ultimate entertainment platform is fully supported. We welcome all the new Steam users who can now upgrade to Ubuntu. Steam Big Picture running on your Ubuntu computer connected to the living room TV is a great way to experience the future today. Canonical looks forward to the steady progress of games from all our partners on Ubuntu on the desktop and soon on the Ubuntu phone and tablet in due course.”
The Significance of Steam on Ubuntu
The arrival of Steam on Ubuntu is a significant milestone for both the gaming and open-source communities. Historically, Linux users have faced challenges when it comes to gaming, as many popular titles were not available on the platform. With Steam’s official support, this barrier is being broken down, offering Linux users access to a vast library of games. This move not only enhances the gaming experience for current Linux users but also makes Ubuntu a more attractive option for gamers considering a switch from other operating systems.
Furthermore, the collaboration between Canonical and Valve highlights the growing importance of Linux in the gaming industry. By optimizing Steam for Ubuntu, Valve ensures that gamers can enjoy a seamless and high-performance experience. This partnership is a testament to the potential of open-source platforms in delivering top-tier entertainment solutions.
Future Prospects and Expansions
Looking ahead, the integration of Steam into the Ubuntu ecosystem opens up exciting possibilities. Canonical has hinted at the potential for Steam to be available on other Ubuntu-powered devices, such as phones and tablets. This expansion could revolutionize mobile gaming, providing users with a consistent and high-quality gaming experience across multiple devices.
Moreover, the introduction of Steam Big Picture mode on Ubuntu allows users to transform their PCs into gaming consoles. By connecting their Ubuntu computers to living room TVs, gamers can enjoy a console-like experience with the flexibility and power of a PC. This feature is particularly appealing for those who prefer a more immersive gaming setup.
The collaboration between Canonical and Valve also paves the way for other game developers to consider Linux as a viable platform for their titles. As more games become available on Ubuntu, the platform’s user base is likely to grow, attracting even more developers to the ecosystem. This positive feedback loop could lead to a thriving gaming community on Linux, further solidifying its position in the market.
The official arrival of Steam in the Ubuntu Software Center marks a significant step forward for gaming on Linux. With a wide range of titles now available at discounted prices, there has never been a better time for gamers to explore what Ubuntu has to offer. The collaboration between Canonical and Valve promises a bright future for gaming on open-source platforms, with exciting prospects for further expansion and innovation.
Source: Canonical
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
