If you’re a Linux gamer eager to enjoy GOG.com titles, this list is for you. It covers practical ways to play GOG games on Linux using Proton, Valve’s compatibility layer that enables many Windows games to run smoothly on Linux. Whether you’re new to Linux gaming or looking to optimize your setup, these tips will help you get started and improve your experience.
Use Proton with Steam to Run GOG Games
Although GOG offers DRM-free installers, Proton runs through Steam, so the easiest method is to add your GOG game’s executable as a “Non-Steam Game” in Steam. This allows you to leverage Proton’s compatibility layer, which translates Windows API calls to Linux. Steam Proton supports many GOG games, enabling you to benefit from Steam’s integrated tools like controller support and overlay features.
Install Proton GE for Better Compatibility
Proton GE (GloriousEggroll) is a community-maintained fork of Proton that often includes patches and fixes not yet in the official release. It’s particularly useful for GOG games that have issues with the standard Proton version. Installing Proton GE via tools like ProtonUp-Qt can improve performance and fix bugs in titles such as “Divinity: Original Sin 2” or “The Witcher 3” from GOG.
Use Lutris for Managing GOG Games
Lutris is a game manager designed for Linux that simplifies running Windows games from various stores, including GOG. It supports Proton and Wine configurations, allowing you to customize settings per game. Lutris automates installing dependencies and setting environment variables, making it easier to launch GOG games with Proton without manually configuring each title.
Download GOG Games via GOG Galaxy on Wine
While GOG Galaxy is not officially supported on Linux, you can run it through Wine or Proton to manage your GOG library and download games natively. This approach lets you keep your GOG games up to date and launch them with Proton afterward. It requires some setup but streamlines handling GOG’s DRM-free installers and patches.
Configure Proton Environment Variables for Optimization
Proton supports several environment variables that can tweak game behavior, such as enabling DXVK HUD or forcing specific DirectX versions. For example, setting PROTON_USE_WINED3D=1 can resolve graphical glitches in some GOG games that don’t work well with Vulkan-based DXVK. Adjusting these variables helps tailor Proton’s behavior to each GOG game’s needs.
Use Protontricks to Install Dependencies
Protontricks is a utility that lets you install Windows DLLs and components into Proton prefixes. Some GOG games require additional runtime libraries like Visual C++ redistributables, DirectX, or .NET Framework. Protontricks automates this process, ensuring your GOG games have the necessary dependencies to run without errors on Linux.
Verify Game Compatibility on ProtonDB
ProtonDB is a community-driven database documenting how well various games run under Proton. Checking ProtonDB entries for your GOG titles provides insights into which Proton version works best, known issues, and user-submitted workarounds. This resource is invaluable for troubleshooting and selecting the right Proton version for your specific GOG game.
Manage Save Files and Settings Carefully
When running GOG games on Linux with Proton, save files and configuration data may be stored in Proton’s virtual Windows prefix rather than the standard Linux directories. Understanding where Proton stores these files is crucial for backing up progress or transferring saves between systems. Proton prefixes are usually found in ~/.steam/steam/steamapps/compatdata/ followed by a numeric ID folder.
Optimize Graphics Drivers for Better Performance
Ensuring your Linux system has the latest proprietary graphics drivers (NVIDIA or AMD) significantly improves Proton’s performance running GOG games. Open-source drivers can work but often lag behind in performance or Vulkan support, which Proton depends on heavily. Updating Mesa for AMD or installing the latest NVIDIA drivers through your distro’s package manager is recommended before launching demanding GOG titles.
Use Steam Input for Controller Support
Many GOG games support controllers but may not recognize them properly on Linux without configuration. Adding GOG games to Steam and running them with Proton enables Steam Input, which maps controllers at the system level. This allows you to customize button layouts, use community controller configs, and enjoy consistent input handling across your GOG library.
How to Choose
Choosing the right approach to play GOG games on Linux with Proton depends on your comfort with Linux tools and the specific games you want to run. If you prefer simplicity, adding games as Non-Steam titles and using official Proton releases is a good start. For better compatibility or newer fixes, Proton GE is worth trying. Lutris offers more granular control and automation, ideal for managing multiple GOG games and custom configurations. Checking ProtonDB ensures you pick the correct Proton version or tweaks for each title. Ultimately, your hardware, driver support, and willingness to troubleshoot will dictate the best method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy GOG games and run them directly on Linux without Steam?
Yes, GOG games are DRM-free and can be installed directly on Linux if native Linux versions exist. For Windows-only games, you’ll need Proton or Wine to run them.
Is Proton free to use with GOG games?
Yes, Proton is free and available through Steam. You can use it to run any Windows game, including those from GOG, by adding them as Non-Steam games.
Do all GOG games work perfectly with Proton?
No, compatibility varies. Many popular titles run well, but some require tweaks or specific Proton versions. ProtonDB is the best place to check game-specific reports.
Can I use GOG Galaxy on Linux to update my games?
You can run GOG Galaxy through Wine or Proton, but it’s unofficial and may have bugs. Alternatively, manually download installers or use Lutris scripts.
Will updates to Proton break my GOG games?
Occasionally, new Proton versions introduce regressions. You can switch Proton versions per game in Steam or ProtonUp-Qt to maintain stability.
Is it better to run GOG games with Wine or Proton?
Proton is a customized Wine fork optimized for gaming with integrated DXVK and Steam features. For most users, Proton provides a smoother experience, but Wine may be preferable for advanced custom setups.
Final Thoughts
Playing GOG games on Linux using Proton opens up a vast library of Windows-only titles without needing a native Linux version. By leveraging Proton through Steam, using community tools like Proton GE and Lutris, and consulting resources like ProtonDB, you can enjoy many GOG games with good performance and stability. While some setup and troubleshooting may be necessary, the Linux gaming ecosystem continues to improve, making it a viable platform for GOG gamers seeking freedom from Windows.
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