After entering private beta back in September of this year, Valve has now announced that their Steam gaming network for Linux has now launched into a limited access beta development stage.
Valve has reported that they received over 60,000 responses in just the first week when it announced a request for beta testers earlier in the year. If you are interested in giving the new Steam for Linux Beta client a whirl, it’s currently available for Linux Ubuntu 12.04.
Significance of Steam for Linux
Gabe Newell, Valve President and co-founder, explained: “This is a huge milestone in the development of PC gaming,” “Steam users have been asking us to support gaming on Linux. We’re happy to bring rich forms of entertainment and our community of users to this open, customer-friendly platform.” This move is particularly significant because it opens up the world of PC gaming to a broader audience. Linux has long been favored by developers and tech enthusiasts for its open-source nature and flexibility. By bringing Steam to Linux, Valve is not only expanding its user base but also promoting the growth of gaming on an alternative operating system.
Supported Games and Features
The new Valve Steam Linux beta gaming network currently supports the free-to-play game Team Fortress 2, and approximately 24 additional Steam titles that are playable on Linux-based systems including Trine 2, World of Goo, and Serious Sam 3 to name just a few. This initial lineup is a promising start, showcasing a variety of genres and gameplay styles. For instance, “Trine 2” is a visually stunning puzzle-platformer, while “World of Goo” offers a unique physics-based puzzle experience. “Serious Sam 3” caters to fans of fast-paced first-person shooters.
The Steam for Linux Beta client includes Big Picture, the mode of Steam designed for use with a TV and controller, also currently in beta. Big Picture mode is particularly noteworthy as it transforms the gaming experience, making it more accessible for those who prefer gaming on a larger screen with a console-like interface. This feature is a testament to Valve’s commitment to versatility and user experience.
Community and Future Prospects
For more information jump over to the Valve Steam Linux community forums. The community forums are a valuable resource for beta testers and new users alike. They provide a platform for sharing experiences, troubleshooting issues, and discussing potential improvements. Engaging with the community can enhance your understanding of the Steam for Linux client and help you make the most of its features.
Looking ahead, the success of the Steam for Linux beta could pave the way for more developers to consider Linux as a viable platform for their games. This could lead to an increase in the number of games available on Linux, further enriching the gaming ecosystem. Additionally, Valve’s support for Linux could inspire other major gaming platforms to follow suit, fostering a more diverse and inclusive gaming environment.
The launch of Steam for Linux in a limited access beta stage marks a significant step forward for both Valve and the Linux community. With a promising lineup of games, innovative features like Big Picture mode, and a supportive community, the future looks bright for gaming on Linux. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux user or new to the platform, now is an exciting time to explore what Steam for Linux has to offer.
Source: Valve
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.
