How to Download GOG on Linux

Downloading GOG games on Linux can seem tricky at first, but I’m here to guide you through the process. Whether you’re new to Linux or switching from Windows, you’ll find it easier than you think to enjoy your favorite GOG games. We’ll explore the best ways to download and run GOG games on your Linux system without hassle.

You might wonder why GOG on Linux isn’t as straightforward as on Windows. The good news is, with tools like Lutris and Wine, you can play many GOG games smoothly. I’ll walk you through each step, from downloading the GOG installer to running games on Linux. Let’s get started!

What is GOG and Why Use It on Linux?

GOG, or Good Old Games, is a popular digital game store known for DRM-free titles. This means you own your games without restrictions, which is great for Linux users who want flexibility. GOG offers a wide range of classic and new games, many of which run well on Linux.

Linux gamers appreciate GOG because:

• DRM-free games allow easy installation and backup.
• Many games have native Linux versions.
• You can use compatibility layers like Wine to run Windows-only games.
• GOG Galaxy, the game client, is available unofficially on Linux through community tools.

Using GOG on Linux gives you access to a vast library without worrying about digital rights management, making it a favorite among open-source enthusiasts.

How to Download GOG Games on Linux: Step-by-Step Guide

Downloading GOG games on Linux involves a few steps, but I’ll break them down clearly. You’ll learn how to get the GOG installer, use Lutris to manage your games, and run them smoothly.

Step 1: Install Lutris on Your Linux System

Lutris is a game manager for Linux that simplifies running Windows games using Wine. It supports GOG games and helps you install and launch them easily.

To install Lutris:

• Open your terminal.
• For Ubuntu/Debian-based systems, run:

  sudo add-apt-repository ppa:lutris-team/lutris
  sudo apt update
  sudo apt install lutris
  

• For Fedora:

  sudo dnf install lutris
  

• For Arch Linux:

  sudo pacman -S lutris
  

Once installed, launch Lutris from your applications menu.

Step 2: Download the GOG Installer for Your Game

GOG provides standalone installers for each game, usually in .exe format for Windows or .sh for Linux if available.

• Log in to your GOG account on their website.
• Go to your library and find the game you want.
• Click “Download Offline Backup Game Installers.”
• Choose the Windows installer (.exe) if no Linux version exists.

Save the installer to a folder you can easily access.

Step 3: Add Your GOG Game to Lutris

Now, you’ll add the game installer to Lutris to manage installation and running.

• Open Lutris.
• Click the “+” button to add a new game.
• Fill in the game name.
• Set the runner to “Wine” for Windows games or “Native” for Linux games.
• Under the “Game options” tab, set the executable path to the GOG installer you downloaded.
• Save the entry.

Step 4: Install and Run the Game

With the game added, click “Play” in Lutris. Lutris will:

• Use Wine to run the GOG installer.
• Guide you through the installation process as if on Windows.
• Once installed, Lutris will create a shortcut to launch the game.

You can now enjoy your GOG game on Linux!

Using Wine Directly to Run GOG Installers

If you prefer not to use Lutris, you can run GOG installers directly with Wine. Wine translates Windows commands to Linux, allowing many Windows games to run.

Here’s how:

• Install Wine on your system:
  • Ubuntu/Debian:

    sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
    sudo apt update
    sudo apt install wine64 wine32
    

• Navigate to the folder with your GOG installer.
• Run the installer with Wine:

  wine setup_game.exe
  

• Follow the installation prompts.
• After installation, run the game with Wine:

  wine "C:\path\to\game.exe"
  

This method is more manual but works well for experienced users.

Tips for a Better GOG Gaming Experience on Linux

Playing GOG games on Linux can be smooth with a few extra tips:

• Check ProtonDB: ProtonDB is a community database that rates how well games run on Linux using Proton (a Wine variant). It helps you know if your game will work well.
• Use Steam Proton: If you have Steam, you can add GOG games as non-Steam games and run them with Proton for better compatibility.
• Keep Wine and Lutris Updated: New versions improve game support and fix bugs.
• Install Required Dependencies: Some games need extra libraries like vcrun or dxvk. Lutris can install these automatically.
• Use a Gaming-Friendly Linux Distro: Distros like Pop!_OS or Ubuntu GamePack come with gaming tools pre-installed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, you might face problems running GOG games on Linux. Here’s how to fix common issues:

• Game Won’t Launch: Make sure Wine and Lutris are updated. Try running the game from the terminal to see error messages.
• Graphics Problems: Install the latest GPU drivers for your system. Use Vulkan drivers if supported.
• Missing Libraries: Use Lutris scripts to install dependencies or manually install packages like lib32-mesa.
• Performance Issues: Lower in-game graphics settings or enable DXVK for better DirectX support.
• Installer Fails: Try running the installer with winetricks or use a different Wine version in Lutris.

Alternatives to GOG Galaxy on Linux

GOG Galaxy is the official GOG client but is only available on Windows and macOS. Linux users rely on alternatives:

• Lutris: Supports GOG games and manages Wine configurations.
• Heroic Games Launcher: An open-source client that supports GOG and Epic Games on Linux.
• PlayOnLinux: Another Wine frontend that helps install and run Windows games.
• Manual Installation: Download installers directly and run with Wine.

These tools provide a similar experience to GOG Galaxy, making game management easier.

Benefits of Using GOG on Linux

Choosing GOG for your Linux gaming has several advantages:

• DRM-Free: No online checks or restrictions.
• Offline Play: Install once and play anytime.
• Wide Game Selection: Classic and indie games often support Linux.
• Community Support: Active forums and guides for Linux gamers.
• Backup Friendly: Easy to back up installers and save files.

These benefits make GOG a great choice for Linux gamers who want control and flexibility.

How to Keep Your GOG Games Updated on Linux

Since GOG doesn’t have an official Linux client, updating games requires manual steps:

• Manual Downloads: Periodically check GOG for updated installers.
• Lutris Scripts: Some Lutris installers include update options.
• Backup Saves: Always back up your save files before reinstalling.
• Use Wine Prefixes: Keep separate Wine environments for each game to avoid conflicts.

While updates aren’t automatic, these methods keep your games current.

Conclusion

Downloading and playing GOG games on Linux is easier than it looks. With tools like Lutris and Wine, you can enjoy a vast library of DRM-free games without switching operating systems. By following the steps to install Lutris, download GOG installers, and run your games, you’ll have a smooth gaming experience.

Remember to keep your software updated and check community resources for tips and troubleshooting. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a Linux enthusiast, GOG offers a flexible and enjoyable way to play games on Linux. Now, go ahead and dive into your favorite titles!

FAQs

How do I install Lutris on Linux?

You can install Lutris via your Linux distribution’s package manager. For Ubuntu, add the Lutris PPA and install it with apt. Other distros like Fedora and Arch have Lutris in their repositories.

Can I run all GOG games on Linux?

Not all GOG games have native Linux versions, but many Windows games run well using Wine or Proton through Lutris or Steam.

Is GOG Galaxy available on Linux?

There is no official GOG Galaxy client for Linux, but tools like Lutris and Heroic Games Launcher offer similar functionality.

How do I update GOG games on Linux?

Since there’s no official client, you update games by downloading new installers from GOG and reinstalling or using Lutris scripts if available.

What should I do if a GOG game won’t run on Linux?

Try updating Wine and Lutris, check for missing dependencies, install the latest GPU drivers, or consult ProtonDB and community forums for specific fixes.