10 Best Linux Distros for Gaming in 2024

The concept of gaming is active but changes with the changes that happen to the OS environment in which it is located. As the Linux user base has grown, so have the improvements in Linux gaming server: performance, compatibility and usability. One significant advancement that has influenced gaming is cloud hosting. 

So, in 2024, several Linux distributions exist that can be recommended for gamers because of increased performance, the convenience of using, and the rapid help of the community if necessary. 

The following are the leading 10 Linux distributions for gaming in 2024.

1. SteamOS

Valve Corporation developed SteamOS solely for gaming purposes. Constructed based on Debian, this operating system is specifically made to support Steam and offer a console-style feel.

Key Features:

1. Big Picture Mode: Big Picture Mode provides a user-friendly game access system.
2. Explicitly designed for Steam: Smoothly incorporates with the Steam platform.
3. Game Streaming: Enables streaming from a gaming PC within the home.
4. Ideal For: People who enjoy the console setup but simultaneously want to have a Steam setup without having to bother with other typical desktop setups.

2. Pop!_OS

Pop! Later on, there was GNOME, which System76 was developing as an update to Ubuntu, and it was considered to be smooth-running and easy to use.

Key Features:

1. Gaming Mode: Provides a specialized gaming mode that enhances performance.
2. NVIDIA Drivers: Includes simple installation for NVIDIA's proprietary drivers.
3. Flatpak Support: Allows easy installation of gaming applications.
4. Ideal For: Users looking for a polished and user-friendly environment with excellent support for gaming hardware.

3. Ubuntu GamePack

Ubuntu GamePack is a modified edition of Ubuntu with a diverse selection of games and gaming utilities already installed.

Key Features:

1. Pre-installed Games: Comes with a variety of games and emulators.
2. Wine and PlayOnLinux: Supports running Windows games effortlessly.
3. Easy Installation: Installation process that is easy for the user.
4. Ideal For: Perfect for gamers looking for a pre-configured setup with minimal preparation.

4. Manjaro Gaming Edition

Manjaro has some flavours, including one of the Gaming Edition, built on Arch and optimized for gaming and users' convenience.

Key Features:

Rolling Release Model: Constantly updated with the most recent software and drivers.

Pre-installed gaming tools, including Steam, Wine, and Lutris, have already been installed.

Customizable: Provides a selection of different desktop environments for customization.

Ideal for: Advanced users who want to get the most features and are okay with getting a new model frequently.

5. Lubuntu

Lubuntu, therefore, is a distribution of Ubuntu specifically for older and low-end computers and utilizes the LXQt interface.

Key Features:

1. Lightweight: Ideal for systems with limited resources.
2. Customizable: Offers flexibility in desktop customization.
3. Access to Ubuntu Repositories: Full access to the vast Ubuntu software repositories.
4. Ideal For: Gamers with older hardware still want to enjoy gaming on Linux.

Lubuntu's lightweight nature and access to Ubuntu's extensive repositories make it a strong candidate for cloud hosting, especially for users with older hardware or those looking to optimize resource usage in a cloud environment

6. Fedora Games Spin

Fedora Games Spin is a specialized edition of Fedora tailored explicitly for gamers, containing a selection of pre-installed games.

Key Features:

1. Diverse Game Library: Includes a wide range of open-source games.
2. Regular Updates: Based on Fedora's rolling release model.
3. Robust Community Support: Backed by the Fedora community for troubleshooting and support.
4. Ideal For: Gamers who appreciate open-source software and want diverse games.

7. Zorin OS

Zorin OS provides political aesthetics and an inspiring user interface and layout, so it is perfect for a Linux novice.

Key Features:

1. Windows-like Interface: Helps users switch from Windows to adapt quickly.
2. Gaming Compatibility: Steam and other gaming platform games are perfectly compatible with this keyboard.
3. Optimization of performance: Provides tools to improve system efficiency.
4. Ideal For: Linux novices and gamers are the target audience because KDE offers an appealing, simple interface and lag-free gaming server.

8. Solus

Solus OS is a Linux distribution customizable for personal use, easy to use, and fast.

Key Features:

1. Budgie Desktop: Offers a modern and intuitive desktop experience.
2. Gaming Center: Includes a dedicated gaming server centre for managing games.
3. Rolling Release: Ensures users have access to the latest software.
4. Ideal For: Users looking for a modern and efficient environment for gaming and general use.

9. Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a lightweight and highly customizable system that users can even construct from scratch.

Key Features:

1. Customizability: Users can install only what they need for gaming.
2. Access to AUR: The Arch User Repository (AUR) grants entry to an extensive software library.
3. Rolling Release: Continuous updates ensure that Rolling Release remains current with the newest packages.
4. Ideal For: Advanced users who want complete control over their system configuration.

10. Elementary OS

Elementary OS is famous for its beautiful appearance and simple interface, which new users have prized.

Key Features:

1. Elegant Interface: A visually appealing and intuitive desktop environment.
2. AppCenter: Provides easy access to applications, including games.
3. Performance Focus: Designed to be fast and efficient.
4. Ideal For: The audience favours the device's looks and ease of use while playing non-serious games.

Conclusion

By the year 2024, the Linux-based gaming scene will be more vibrant than it has ever been. Players can find a fitting atmosphere that improves their gaming enjoyment with various options for their unique requirements and tastes. If you enjoy playing video games occasionally or are a committed fan, these ten Linux operating systems provide:

A solid foundation for gaming server on Linux.

Ensuring compatibility and speed.

A wide variety of games.