SteamOS in 2017
SteamOS in 2017
I've been exploring Linux lately, mostly Ubuntu and Mint. It made me wonder about the SteamOS situation back in 2017. Was it as popular as HL3? Or was there still some effort left to go?
Steam OS remains less smooth compared to Orbis, and the lack of YouTube on Steam is a noticeable drawback. Still, it’s simpler to use than the other two platforms, making games more accessible on SteamOS.
Steam OS is a Debian-based distribution, which means it’s likely compatible with installing apps like Minitube. You can add it to the Steam library and launch it through the Steam interface, similar to regular games. I’ve tried this with Kodi, and it worked. It seems many other applications should also function this way, including RetroArch. Kodi even has a YouTube addon available.
Great choice! Dual booting Redstone with Ubuntu and Windows can be a solid setup.
SteamOS supports a full desktop with XFCE, allowing you to add any applications such as Chrome or Firefox running on Linux just like other distributions. Keep in mind, Steam is primarily a gaming platform, not a dedicated Linux software company—consider this perspective.
SteamOS offers the most authentic console feel on PC without needing major modifications. It’s perfect for those who enjoy PC gaming but prefer not to deal with small icons right after turning on the system. While you can switch to Windows or Linux for a different experience, it may involve some adjustments and the interface might not match the polished look of consoles like PlayStation or Xbox. Since SteamOS is built on Debian, most free software should function smoothly. Valve doesn’t have to become a full software company because the Linux foundation already supports it.