Fact check: Why are there video games that do not natively-support Linux systems?

1. Summary of the results

The limited native Linux support in video games stems from several key factors:

• Linux represents only 2% of gaming market share as of January 2024 ^[1]
• A "vicious cycle" exists where gamers choose Windows for better game access, which in turn encourages developers to prioritize Windows development ^[2]
• Game developers primarily target Windows, treating Linux as an afterthought ^[3]
• Technical complexity and additional development resources are required for Linux ports, which smaller studios often cannot afford ^[1]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual elements should be considered:

• The Linux gaming ecosystem has actually grown significantly since the 1990s, with initiatives like Steam and Humble Bundle ^[1]
• Alternative solutions exist through compatibility layers like Proton, Wine, Cedega, and DXVK ^{[1] [3]}
• The gaming landscape is evolving with the rise of cloud gaming services, which could potentially change the importance of native support ^[4]
• Linux gaming faces additional challenges due to the fragmentation of Linux distributions ^[4]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The question implies a simple technical limitation, but the reality is more complex:

• The issue is primarily economic and historical, rather than purely technical ^[1]
• Different stakeholders have varying interests:
• Major game developers benefit from focusing on Windows due to market share ^[4]
• Microsoft benefits from maintaining Windows' dominance in gaming
• Linux community has responded by developing compatibility solutions ^[3]
• The situation may be changing, as native support might become less relevant with the emergence of cloud gaming and compatibility layers ^[4]