Remember when gaming on Linux felt like a niche hobby, a bit like trying to find a decent cup of coffee in a desert? Things have changed, and dramatically so, especially in 2016. With Steam making a serious commitment to Linux, the floodgates opened, bringing a wave of fantastic games directly to our favorite operating system. No more wrestling with compatibility layers; these were games built for us.
It’s easy to get lost in the sheer volume of over 1500 Linux titles on Steam, so let’s cut through the noise and highlight some of the real gems that landed in 2016. And a quick heads-up: while some indie darlings might be free, many of these top-tier experiences come with a price tag – a worthwhile investment for the quality you get.
A Story That Rewrites Itself: Life is Strange
This one might have originally graced other platforms in 2015, but its arrival on Linux in July 2016 was a massive win. Developed by Dontnod Entertainment, Life is Strange isn't just a game; it's an experience. You play as Max Caulfield, a photography student who discovers she can rewind time. This isn't just a gimmick; it's the core of the narrative, allowing you to explore the consequences of your choices in a deeply personal way. The entire five-episode saga unfolds with a compelling mystery and characters you genuinely come to care about. The best part? The first episode is free, offering a perfect entry point into this emotional rollercoaster.
Time is on Your Side (Literally): SUPERHOT
If you've ever wished time would just stop so you could figure out your next move, SUPERHOT is your dream game. Born from a game jam and fueled by incredible fan support, this first-person shooter has a unique mechanic: time only moves when you do. This transforms frantic firefights into strategic puzzles. Dodging bullets, planning your attacks, and using the environment to your advantage becomes paramount. It’s a stylish, mind-bending shooter that feels incredibly fresh and satisfying, proving that innovative ideas can conquer even the most established genres.
The Fight for Earth Continues: XCOM 2
Following up on the critically acclaimed XCOM: Enemy Unknown, XCOM 2 dropped in February 2016 and immediately set a new standard for turn-based strategy. This time, humanity has lost the war against the alien invaders, and you're leading the resistance from the shadows. Developed by Firaxis Games, known for their pedigree, XCOM 2 delivers intense tactical combat, deep base management, and a compelling narrative of defiance. Its critical reception was stellar, with perfect scores and high ratings across the board, cementing its place as a must-play for strategy fans.
Survival Against the Odds: Near Death
Imagine being stranded on an abandoned Antarctic research base with no hope of rescue. That's the chilling premise of Near Death, a survival game from Orthogonal Games. This isn't just about finding food and water; it's about battling the brutal Antarctic environment itself. The game features unique player tools designed to help you navigate and survive the lethal cold and treacherous weather. It’s an experimental and atmospheric take on the survival genre, pushing boundaries with its focus on environmental challenges.
A Glimpse into the Future of Shooters: Police Infinity
Even in its early access alpha phase, Police Infinity was making waves in 2016. This first-person shooter, developed by 314 Arts, offered both competitive and casual modes, and crucially, it was available on SteamOS/Linux. Its positive early reviews on Steam indicated a promising future, showcasing the growing diversity of multiplayer experiences available to Linux gamers. It’s a testament to the power of community backing, having successfully navigated the Steam Greenlight process.
These games represent just a fraction of the incredible gaming experiences that became available on Linux in 2016. They showcase the growing maturity of the platform and the dedication of developers to bring high-quality, diverse titles to a wider audience. The future of Linux gaming looked incredibly bright.
