Linux Gaming Surges on Steam, Topped by Cronos: The New Dawn
Linux gaming has seen a significant boost on Steam, with usage increasing from 1.92% in September 2024 to 2.68% in September 2025. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the release of native Linux builds for popular games and the impact of Steam Deck's popularity.
Cronos: The New Dawn, a game by Bloober Team, has contributed to this growth. The game now has a native Linux build, improving performance on Steam's handheld console, the Steam Deck. This move follows the game's initial Deck Verification at launch. Bloober Team's decision to support Linux is a testament to the rising adoption of the platform among gamers.
The increase in Linux support is not limited to Cronos. Hollow Knight: Silksong and Baldur's Gate 3 also offer native Linux support. This trend is driven by the popularity of the Steam Deck, with more developers recognizing the potential of the Linux market. Currently, over 42,000 games on Steam have Linux support, with over 9,000 being Deck Verified. Six out of the top ten games on Steam's U.S. Top Sellers list are playable or verified on the Steam Deck, indicating a strong demand for Linux gaming.
The rise in Linux gaming is undeniable, with more games than ever supporting the platform. Developers like Bloober Team are taking notice and investing in native Linux builds. As the Steam Deck continues to gain traction, it's likely that we'll see even more games joining the Linux ecosystem, further boosting the platform's growth.
