GOG is exploring how to bring Galaxy to Linux
GOG has confirmed that it is actively working toward Linux support for GOG Galaxy. Joint CEO Krzysztof Papliński told GamingOnLinux that the company has hired the specialist advertised earlier this year and is evaluating the best way to support Linux. No feature list or release window has been disclosed.
GOG already offers native Linux downloads through its web store when games include Linux builds. Galaxy itself remains limited to Windows and macOS, leaving users to download games manually or use third-party launchers. Earlier this year, GOG described Linux as its “next major frontier” and opened a senior engineering role focused on the platform.
“Linux continues to be one of the topics we hear the most about from our community, and we really appreciate the passion and patience of everyone who’s been asking about it.
Following the role we announced earlier this year, we now have the specialist on board and are actively exploring the best way to approach Linux support for GOG GALAXY. This is a significant undertaking, so while we’re not ready to share any specific plans, timelines, or results just yet, it’s very much an area we’re investing time and effort into.
We’re excited about the possibilities and will be happy to share more when the time is right!”
— Krzysztof Papliński
Windows games remain the key question
A native Galaxy client would provide account access, game downloads, updates, cloud saves and achievements. However, it would not automatically make Windows-only games from GOG’s catalog playable on Linux.
To provide an experience similar to SteamOS, GOG would likely need to integrate Valve’s Proton, use another Wine-based compatibility layer or maintain its own translation layer. Valve uses Proton to run Windows games on Linux through a modified version of Wine. GOG has not confirmed which technical approach it is considering.
Epic Games faces similar Linux requests
Epic Games faces similar requests for an official Linux launcher and Fortnite support. Epic Games Launcher requirements currently list only Windows and macOS. Fortnite players continue asking Epic for either a native Linux version or official Proton support.
Epic already supports native Linux builds, Wine and Proton through Easy Anti-Cheat. Developers have been able to enable this support through Epic Online Services since 2021. However, Fortnite still cannot run directly on Steam Deck, with Epic recommending Xbox Cloud Gaming as a workaround.
Source: Gaming on Linux
