What games to play on linux

Top 31 Best Linux Games You Can Play for FREE

Last updated January 1, 2020 By Ankush Das 129 Comments

We recently discussed the best Linux games on steam , but the best of all does not necessarily mean that they are all free. Instead, most of those were paid games. So, we thought of putting together a separate list of best free Linux games that you can play without spending a penny.

Top Free Linux Games for everyone

Before we see the list of best free Linux games, let me tell you about Humble Bundle. It’s an awesome website that offers massive deals on games and books. The best part is that part of the sale goes to various open source projects and charities. You can visit their store to check the ongoing offers. If you can spend money, you can also subscribe to their monthly plan to get premium games for free and on additional discounts.

Now that you are aware of the awesome Humble Bundle, let’s have a look at the free Linux games. Just for your information, the games listed below are in no particular order of ranking.

1. Dota 2

Dota 2 is one of the most popular MOBA games available for Linux. Well, I’m not a fan of this game but if you like multiplayer strategy games, this should be the one you should have installed. Dota 2 offers one of the best competitive eSport opportunity for aspiring gamers.

The game is completely free to play – however – it offers a battle pass separately – if you want extra features and rewards, which is optional but it’s still something exciting if you are love to play Dota.

2. Team Fortress 2

Team Fortress 2 is one of the oldest multiplayer shooter game available for Linux. Even though the game was released in 2007, it still has a decent player base which makes it one among the top 10 steam games being played on a daily basis.

The game still receives regular content updates – so you shouldn’t get bored. It features a lot of game mods and also lets you customize and create your own character with hundreds of weapons to choose from. In case you were wondering, it isn’t a pay-to-win scheme – it’s just plain cosmetic items which should add a personal touch to your character.

3. War Thunder

War Thunder is a quite impressive World War II simulation game. It is a cross-platform MMO game that deals with aviation, armored vehicles, and naval craft from World War II and the Cold War.

Obviously, it’s an entirely different take on WWII and the Cold War focusing on the variety of combat vehicles used. Yes, it might just be a simple simulation game with multiplayer action – but it still boasts great graphics details in the game.

4. WAKFU

WAKFU is a grid-based MMORPG game which every anime fan would love to have installed. It is really an interesting free to play online strategy RPG game that has humor baked into it as well. The game features 18 different classes to choose from, and whatever role you pick, everything depends on it.

I would definitely want you to try this out – personally, I loved it.

5. Fishing Planet

Fishing Plant (as the name suggests) is an online first-person multiplayer fishing simulator. It’s not for everyone – but if you are an angler or maybe you just want to experience fishing (virtually) – this should be something you should get installed.

It is a very basic simulation game with pleasant graphics details to provide the best first person experience. The base game is free – however, you get several optional DLCs on Steam.

6. Star Conflict

If you want an action-drive space simulation game, this is probably one of the best Linux games for that kind of thing. Star Conflict is a massively multiplayer game which includes both PVP and PVE. You just need to survive in the outer space and decide the best strategy to engage on the enemies.

7. Robocraft

Want to have a fully customizable battle robot? – maybe, the Transformers? Well, Robocraft is something similar. It lets you set up your own robot battle vehicles that can drive, hover, walk or fly – as per your preferences. A bunch of futuristic weapons to choose from – that’ll make the battle even more interesting. It is one of the latest free Linux games that you should try.

8. AdVenture Capitalist

Thought about becoming a capitalist? Well, there’s no better capitalism simulator than this for your Linux machine. Invest, prosper, and attract Angel investors to give your business a boost. Hire a manager and keep your business stable while you’re gone!

9. BRAIN / OUT

Brain / Out is a 2D multiplayer shooter with a post-soviet setting. I don’t really try 2D games but this one was definitely something exciting. You can customize your loadout as well and progress through the game to utilize every type of powerful weaponry to defeat your enemies.

Undoubtedly, one of the best free Linux games available on Steam.

10. Wild West Saga: Idle Tycoon

The game revolves around the Wild West, where you get the chance to become a billion-dollar pioneer by starting several businesses and exploring more business opportunities. The more patent cards you collect, the more it would help your business with new towns and upgrades.

11. No More Room in Hell

If you are a true gamer who loves an action-packed game, you will surely love zombie shooter games. No More Room in Hell is one such first-person co-op zombie shooter game that is completely free to play on Steam.

It is no ordinary FPS game, but also has the touch of a horror game (like the classic Left 4 Dead – which isn’t available for Linux)

12. Awesomenauts

A side-scrolling hero-based 2D MOBA game is damn impressive. It definitely is one of the free Linux games that we would recommend you to try. You can join your friends as an online party or you could enjoy it on a local split screen as well.

I must say, this game is superbly good – if you’re into 2D action-packed games.

13. Dead Maze

Yet another 2D game but with zombies in it. You need to craft life-saving supplies, collect food, monitor health, and scavenge for resources to survive the zombie apocalypse. It is a multiplayer game where you have to cooperate and join other players to survive the apocalypse.

14. The King’s Request: Physiology and Anatomy Revision Game

A dead simple 2D short adventure game which tests your knowledge of the human body, and concepts from science, biology, physiology, anatomy, medicine, Biomed, nursing, pharmacy, health or exercise science.

Each correct answer leads you to the victory and saves the kingdom. And, there are no negative points if you get an answer wrong.

Of course, this isn’t a great game to talk about – but this game is an example of gamifying learning content – so why not give it a try?

15. Cognizer

A unique puzzle game that challenges your brain with symbols and colors. You can either set a time limit or remove it to make things easier.

16. Faeria

It is an interesting card game where you need to defeat your opponent in epic battles. You can either enjoy the game solo or join a casual/competitive multiplayer match. Faeria is nothing like any other card game and that makes it one of the free Linux games we would recommend you to try.

17. Tank Force

If you were searching for an online tank shooter game, Tank Force is a quite good addition to your Steam library. It features a lot of different tanks which you need to unlock as you level up. Join the players from all over the world to fight for dominance.

Tank Force supports cross-platform PvP battles (10v10) with a variety of battle modes and combat arenas. Do try it out!

18. Toribash

Toribash is a unique online turn-based fighting game. Here, you have the ability to design your own moves. You get complete control over your character’s body with hundreds of potential game mods available.

If you were looking for something original and unique – Toribash is the one.

19. Forge of Gods

Forge of Gods is a multiplayer card strategy game where you need to collect and train as many monsters as you can and then assemble them to attack! You even get the ability to mix different type of creatures to breed legendary warriors. In addition, it also features boss battles!

20. World of Guns: Gun Disassembly

Yet another interesting game which lets you explore a wide range of firearms – that includes disassembling/assembling them. There’s nothing more to talk about it – but it’s enjoyable.

21. The Pirate: Caribbean Hunt

Sail through epic battles and raids to become the undisputed captain! The Caribbean is full of opportunities, you just have to find them!

In other words, be the jack sparrow! (maybe that’s too much to ask for)

22. Xonotic

Xonotic is a fast-paced arena shooter. You will probably like it if you’re missing out games like Quake Champions on Linux. It features a pretty impressive set of weapons – that will decide your fate in the arena.

Indeed one of the best free Linux games that do not require Steam.

23. The Battle for Wesnoth

The Battle for Wesnoth is an open-source free turn-based strategy game. You can opt to play it solo or consider joining the multiplayer sessions. You’ve got to defend your kingdom. In either case, you can even choose to pursue the unseen evil by heading down to an adventurous path.

24. CAYNE

It is a point-n-click horror adventure game and it’s free to download via GOG.com. It offers optional extra content for a certain price – but you won’t really be needing that unless you absolutely love this game.

25. 0 A.D

0 A.D. is a free, open-source real-time strategy game that deals with ancient warfare. A group of independent game developers regularly release newer Alpha versions of the game (currently with the 23rd). You can even download mods from within the game to enhance your gameplay.

26. Urban Terror

Urban Terror is a free multiplayer FPS game with a decent number of active players (it depends on your location). It is somewhat relatable to Counterstrike 1.6 but it’s fun if you have friends to play with.

27. Secret Maryo Chronicles

Want a free Super Mario rip-off that’s unique in its own ways? Well, we’ve got you this.

Maryo Chronicles is one of the most amazing 2D side sidescroller games. It is not being actively maintained, but you could give it a try.

28. Assault Cube

Yet another something like the classic Counterstrike 1.6. Assault Cube is a pretty good multiplayer FPS game if you have enough players in the servers. It’s not entirely the best multiplayer FPS but it still is enjoyable.

29. Super Tux Kart

If you are a fan of Kart racing games like the Beach Buggy Blitz for the mobile platform or Mario Kart for Nintendo – you will definitely like this game. It’s super simple, with optimized controls to handle your kart and enjoy the race!

30. Warsow

Warsow is a well-thought FPS game. It is unique and interesting. They even have a discord server which you join and find other players to play with.

31. Hedgewars

It is a funny turn-based strategy game featuring pink hedgehogs. It’s a package of comedy, action, strategy, and artillery – as a whole. It is one of my favorite free Linux non-steam games available.

What’s your favorite Linux game?

Now that you’ve known most of the popular free Linux games, which one would you prefer to get started with?

Also, did we miss any of your favorite Linux game that is available for free and deserves to be one of the best out there?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Gaming On Linux: All You Need To Know

Last updated November 9, 2020 By Abhishek Prakash 91 Comments

Can I play games on Linux?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by users who are thinking about switching to Linux. After all, gaming on Linux is often termed as a distant possibility. At least, by some hardcore gamers using another platform to play games.

In fact, some people even wonder if they can listen to music or watch movies on Linux. Considering that, the question about playing games on Linux seem genuine.

In this article, I am going to answer most of the Linux gaming questions that a beginner may have. Some of the potential questions that I’m going to address here are:

• Is it possible to play games on Linux?
• What are the Linux games available?
• Where can you download Linux games?
• How do you get more information about gaming on Linux?

But before I do that, let me make a confession. I am not a PC gamer or rather I should say, I am not a desktop Linux gamer. I prefer to play games on my PS4 and I haven’t dived into the PC games available or even mobile games (no candy crush request sent to anyone in my friend list). This is the reason you only see a few articles in the Linux games section of It’s FOSS.

So why am I covering this topic then?

Because I have been asked questions about playing games on Linux several times and I wanted to come up with a Linux gaming guide that could answer all those questions. And remember, it’s not just gaming on Ubuntu I am talking about here. I am talking about Linux in general.

Can you play games on Linux?

Yes, you can play games on Linux and no, you cannot play ‘all the games’ in Linux.

Confused? Don’t be. What I meant here is that you can get plenty of popular games on Linux such as Counter Strike, Shadow Of Mordor , etc.

However, you should not expect a native Linux support for the latest and greatest games – which are typically available for Windows.

The reason, in my opinion, is that Linux has less than 2% of desktop market share and the numbers are demotivating enough for most game developers to avoid working on the Linux version of their games.

Not just limited to the userbase, but not all games work perfectly on Linux. But, there are workarounds (ways) to play a huge list of games and I’ll be mentioning how to do that.

If I have to categorize, I’ll divide the games on Linux into four categories:

1. Native Linux Games (games officially available for Linux)
2. Windows games in Linux (Windows games played in Linux with Wine or other software)
3. Browser Games (games that you can play online using your web browse)
4. Terminal Games (games you can play in the Linux terminal)

Let’s start with the most important one, native Linux games, first.

1. Where to find native Linux games?

Native Linux games refer to those games which are officially supported on Linux. You just have to download it and hit it to play it without any potential troubleshooting.

Of course, there are a lot of games that support Linux officially – but where do you find them?

Hence, I am going to list some of the resources which you can utilize to download Linux games.

Steam

Steam is a very popular digital video game store which offers incredible deals on games for Linux (including free games as well). So, it is an obvious source of PC games.

You can explore it to find tons of games ranging from AAA titles to Indie games.

Usually, you can easily find Steam listed in your app center or package manager. But, if you have no clue how to install and use it, refer to my guide below on installing and using Steam on Ubuntu Linux to get an idea.

GOG.com

GOG.com is yet another platform similar to Steam. Like Steam, you can browse and find hundreds of native Linux games on GOG.com, purchase the games and install them. If the games support several platforms, you can download and use them across various operating systems. Your purchased games are available for you all the time in your account. You can download them anytime you wish.

One main difference between the two is that GOG.com offers only DRM free games. Also, GOG.com is entirely web-based. Unlike Steam, you don’t get a native desktop client on Linux for GOG.com.

Portable Linux Games

Portable Linux Games is a website that offers a good collection of Linux games for 32-bit systems. You can’t run the games on a purely 64-bit system by default – however, you can try following a troubleshooting guide to make it happen.

The downloaded files have all the dependencies (at times Wine and Perl installation) and these are also platform-independent. All you need to do is to download the files and double click to install them.

It’s a great source for gamers who aren’t into the games made by big studios but just want to have a good time playing some games on Linux.

Itch.io

Looking for native Linux Indie games? if that’s the case, Itch.io is a fantastic source to find interesting games.

You can find a lot of Indie games for free and can also opt to choose a paid game.

Interestingly, you do not need to create an account to download free games. You can simply head to its page and download the file meant for Linux.

Software Repositories

You can also look into the software repositories of your own Linux distribution. There will always be some games on it.

If you are using Ubuntu, the Software Center itself has an entire section for games. The same is true for other Linux distributions such as Linux Mint etc.

2. How to play Windows games in Linux?

There’s a bunch of native Linux games out there. However, most of the popular games available aren’t available on Linux directly. In other words, the latest and greatest games do not support Linux (for the most) and are available for Windows only.

In that case, do we have a workaround to play those games on Linux? Yes, we do!

With the help of tools like Wine, Phoenicis (formerly known as PlayOnLinux), Lutris, CrossOver, and GameHub, you can play a number of popular Windows games on Linux.

Steam Play

If you’re fond of using Steam as your only source of games on Linux, you can easily try the Windows-only games using Steam Play.

Steam utilizes a compatibility layer to directly run a Windows-specific game on Linux. We do have a detailed guide on using Steam Play on Linux – I’d recommend you to explore that to get started with it.

Wine is a compatibility layer that is capable of running Windows applications in systems like Linux, BSD and OS X. With the help of Wine, you can install and use a number of Windows applications in Linux.

Installing Wine in Ubuntu or any other Linux is easy as it is available in most Linux distributions’ repository. There is a huge database of applications and games supported by Wine that you can browse.

CrossOver

CrossOver is an improved version of Wine that brings professional and technical support to Wine. But unlike Wine, CrossOver is not free. You’ll have to purchase the yearly license for it.

The good thing about CrossOver is that every purchase contributes to Wine developers and that in fact boosts the development of Wine to support more Windows games and applications. If you can afford about $10 a year, you should buy CrossOver for the support they provide.

GameHub

We already have a separate article on how to use GameHub on Linux.

But, to give you a heads up, GameHub lets you manage and play games from multiple sources that include Steam, GOG, and Humble Bundle.

Lutris Gaming

Lutris is something similar to GameHub but supports a wide range of sources that include Origin, Uplay, Epic Games Launcher, and several others.

It makes it easy for you to play Windows-only games on Linux. And, it is a quite popular tool used by many users. You can also check the official list of games it potentially supports before trying it out.

Phoenicis PlayOnLinux

PlayOnLinux too is based on Wine but implemented differently. It has a different interface and slightly easier to use than Wine. Like Wine, PlayOnLinux too is free to use.

It may not be the best choice among the others mentioned but you can browse the applications and games supported by PlayOnLinux on its database to decide for yourself.

3. Browser Games

Needless to say that there are tons of browser-based games that are available to play in any operating system, be it Windows or Linux or Mac OS X. Most of the addictive mobile games, such as GoodGame Empire, also have their web browser counterparts.

Apart from that, thanks to Google Chrome Web Store, you can play some more games in Linux. These Chrome games are installed like a standalone app and they can be accessed from the application menu of your Linux OS. Some of these Chrome games are playable offline as well.

4. Terminal Games

The added advantage of using Linux is that you can use the command line terminal to play games as well.

I know that it’s not the best way to play games but at times, it’s fun to play games like Snake or 2048 in the terminal.

To help you out, we have two separate lists of top command-line games and best ASCII games which are pretty easy to install.

How to stay updated about Linux games?

Now that you know where to find the games and how to use them on Linux, the next question is – how to stay updated about new games on Linux?

Of course, we will try to cover major game releases for Linux – however, we at It’s FOSS aren’t completely focused on gaming (as of yet).

And for that, I advise you to follow these blogs that provide you with the latest happenings of the Linux gaming world:

• Gaming on Linux: I won’t be wrong if I call it the best Linux gaming news portal. You get all the latest rumblings and news about Linux games. Frequently updated, Gaming on Linux has dedicated fan following which makes it a nice community of Linux game lovers.
• Free Gamer: A blog focusing on free and open source games.
• Linux Game News: A blog that updates on various Linux games.

Wrapping Up

I think that’s pretty much what you need to know to get started with gaming on Linux. There are plenty of free Linux games that you can try at the moment.

There’s also a very useful migration guide by the subreddit r/linux_gaming that can help you kickstart your gaming journey on Linux.

It’s time for you to add your inputs. Do you play games on your Linux desktop? What are your favorites? What blogs do you follow to stay updated on the latest Linux games? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

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