With advancements in Linux distributions and newly available tools, gaming on Linux has become more accessible and optimised for performance. While many games are now compatible with Linux, a few tweaks can enhance your experience. This guide will walk you through essential tools and settings to optimise your Linux system for gaming.

Best Tools and Settings to Optimise Linux for Gaming

Linux has become a competitive gaming platform with stable and customisable features. Here are some steps and tools to get the best performance from your Linux setup.

1. Choose the Right Linux Distribution

Selecting a Linux distribution optimised for gaming can make a significant difference. While many distributions support gaming, some are particularly well-suited:

Pop!_OS: Developed by System76, it includes a built-in gaming mode and strong support for NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Ubuntu: Known for its extensive community support and hardware compatibility, making it a stable choice for gaming. Manjaro: Provides Arch-based system management with user-friendly gaming support. Fedora: Offers cutting-edge features and a focus on stability, ideal for gamers seeking the latest software.

2. Update System and Drivers

Keeping your system and drivers updated is essential for optimal gaming performance.

Update the Kernel: Running the latest Linux kernel ensures better hardware support and performance improvements. GPU Drivers: Use proprietary drivers from AMD or NVIDIA for the best gaming experience. On Ubuntu, the Additional Drivers utility makes this process easier, while other distributions may require manual installation.

3. Install Essential Gaming Tools

Several tools can enhance the Linux gaming experience:

Steam: The most popular gaming platform on Linux, with support for Proton, allowing many Windows games to run on Linux. Lutris: A platform that uses Wine to run Windows games and includes support for emulators and native Linux games, offering easy game installations. GameMode: Developed by Feral Interactive, GameMode optimizes CPU settings and disables the screensaver to enhance performance. Wine and Proton: Wine allows Windows applications to run on Linux, while Steam’s Proton (a Wine-based tool) is specifically optimised for gaming.

4. Optimise System Settings

Adjusting system settings can improve gaming performance:

Swap File: Lowering the swappiness setting minimizes swap usage, keeping processes in RAM for quicker access. To set swappiness to 10, use: sudo sysctl vm.swappiness=10 Add vm.swappiness=10 to /etc/sysctl.conf for permanent changes.

CPU Governor: Setting the CPU to “performance” mode maintains high processing speeds. Use the command: sudo cpupower frequency-set -g performance Disable Unnecessary Services: Free up resources by turning off unnecessary background services. Use tools like systemctl or top to manage these services.

5. Use a Lightweight Desktop Environment

Choosing a lightweight desktop environment (DE) helps allocate more resources to gaming.

Xfce: Balances functionality with low resource usage. LXQt: Consumes even fewer resources than Xfce, ideal for performance-focused setups. Openbox: A minimalist window manager that maximses resources for gaming.

6. Overclock System Hardware

Overclocking can boost gaming performance but requires caution.

CPU Overclocking: Access BIOS or UEFI settings to increase CPU clock speed, or use tools like cpufrequtils. GPU Overclocking: Use tools such as Radeon-profile for AMD or GreenWithEnvy for NVIDIA to safely overclock your GPU.

Conclusion

Optimising Linux for gaming involves choosing the right distribution, updating drivers, using essential tools, and fine-tuning system settings. These tips can help you get the best performance from your Linux gaming setup, whether you're an avid gamer or a casual player.