The gaming landscape is undergoing a subtle but significant shift as Linux continues to carve out a larger foothold among Steam users.

According to a recent report from GamingOnLinux, the Linux user share on Valve’s popular gaming platform reached a multi-year high in May 2025, signaling a slow but steady upward trend that could have broader implications for the tech and gaming industries. This milestone reflects not just a growing interest in alternative operating systems but also the impact of innovative hardware and software solutions that are making Linux a viable choice for gamers.

While Windows remains the dominant operating system on Steam with a staggering 95.45% share as noted by Extremetech, the incremental rise in Linux adoption cannot be ignored. Industry insiders point to several factors driving this trend, including the increasing popularity of the Steam Deck, Valve’s handheld gaming device that runs on a Linux-based operating system. The device has not only broadened the appeal of Linux to casual gamers but has also demonstrated the potential for open-source platforms to deliver high-quality gaming experiences.

Hardware as a Catalyst

The Steam Deck’s role in this surge cannot be overstated. Since its launch, the device has been a game-changer, offering a portable, console-like experience with the flexibility of a PC. GamingOnLinux highlights that the Steam Deck has consistently driven Linux user numbers on Steam, with each new survey showing incremental gains that have now culminated in this multi-year peak. This hardware push is complemented by Valve’s ongoing investment in Proton, a compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run seamlessly on Linux.

Proton’s continuous updates, including recent enhancements to gamepad input for all game launchers as reported by GamingOnLinux, have further lowered the barriers for gamers transitioning to Linux. This synergy of hardware and software innovation is creating an ecosystem where Linux is no longer just an enthusiast’s choice but a practical option for a wider audience. The result is a growing user base that is beginning to influence how developers approach platform support.

Industry Implications and Challenges

As Linux gains traction, questions arise about its long-term impact on the gaming industry. Will developers prioritize Linux compatibility in their titles, or will Windows continue to dominate due to its entrenched position? The numbers from May 2025 suggest that while Linux’s share remains small in absolute terms, its growth trajectory could pressure publishers to rethink their strategies. GamingOnLinux notes that this steady rise might encourage more native Linux game development, especially as tools like Proton mature.

However, challenges persist. Linux’s fragmented distribution landscape and the learning curve for new users could slow broader adoption. Additionally, while the Steam Deck has been a boon, its success is tied to Valve’s ability to maintain momentum with updates and new hardware iterations. For now, the industry watches closely as Linux’s presence on Steam grows, marking a quiet but noteworthy shift in the gaming world’s operating system dynamics. With each percentage point gained, Linux is proving it has a place in the future of gaming.