NVIDIA's GeForce NOW service has officially launched on Linux, offering a cloud-based alternative as gaming hardware costs soar.
Today’s PC gaming news is bookended by a significant development for Linux gamers and a nostalgic return to one of strategy gaming’s classics. Notably, NVIDIA’s cloud gaming service, GeForce NOW, has left its beta phase on Linux, providing welcome relief as hardware prices continue to escalate.
NVIDIA GeForce NOW Levels Up for Linux
NVIDIA GeForce NOW has officially exited beta for Linux users, marking a new chapter in cloud-based gaming accessibility. This release is significant given the rising cost of gaming hardware. As GamingOnLinux and PCGamesN report, the service allows players to stream and play games from their libraries on platforms like Steam and Epic Games, offering a cost-effective alternative to upgrading hardware. The full release may encourage users hesitant about cloud gaming to take the plunge, especially amid current financial constraints.
Linux Native Support Dwindles for PAYDAY 2
On the downside for Linux gamers, GamingOnLinux reported that PAYDAY 2 has dropped its native Linux version. The update, which adds 64-bit support, now requires Linux users to rely on Proton to play. This move is reflective of a broader trend where developers forego native Linux support, possibly due to the complexity of maintaining multiple platform versions.
Classic Revival: Defender of the Crown
Meanwhile, nostalgic gamers might be interested in the return of a classic. The Amiga strategy game, Defender of the Crown, has been re-released on PC as “The Legend Returns,” featuring both original and newly revamped graphics, along with a novel roguelite mode. RockPaperShotgun delves into the blend of old and new, adding a fresh element to a game that first debuted 40 years ago. This release forms part of an ongoing trend of revitalizing old titles with modern twists.
Innovation in the Indie Scene
The indie game scene continues to diversify with unique titles like Typomagical and Sandustry. Typomagical, a typing game that combines spell-building with bullet-hell mechanics, offers a frantic challenge, while Sandustry, now in early access, invites players to discover a civilization’s secrets through factory building. These titles highlight the creative range present in today’s indie games, catering to niche interests while offering new gameplay experiences.
In summary, the Linux gaming landscape is seeing both advancements and setbacks, with NVIDIA’s GeForce NOW full release offering a viable alternative to traditional gaming setups and PAYDAY 2’s shift away from native support illustrating ongoing challenges. Meanwhile, nostalgia and innovation thrive simultaneously, proving there’s something in the current gaming crop for everyone.
