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The best FPS games for Ubuntu depend on how you want to play: Team Fortress 2 is a free-to-play class-based multiplayer option, Counter-Strike 2 is the competitive tactical choice, and Left 4 Dead 2 suits cooperative action-horror. All three have SteamOS + Linux listings. Check each game’s current Steam page for compatibility and requirements before installing; Proton can run some Windows games on Ubuntu, but it does not guarantee every game will work.
Which FPS game should you choose?
| Game | Best fit | Steam Linux listing and minimum requirements | Price model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Team Fortress 2 | Class-based multiplayer with multiple modes and nine distinct classes | Steam lists SteamOS + Linux and Ubuntu 12.04 as the minimum OS. Listed minimums include a dual-core 2.8 GHz CPU, 1 GB RAM, older NVIDIA or AMD graphics hardware, and 15 GB storage. | Free to play |
| Counter-Strike 2 | Competitive, tactical multiplayer | Steam lists SteamOS + Linux and Ubuntu 20.04 as the minimum OS. Listed minimums include four CPU hardware threads, 8 GB RAM, AMD GCN+ or NVIDIA Kepler+ graphics with current Vulkan drivers, and 85 GB storage. VK_EXT_graphics_pipeline_library support is highly recommended. | Not stated on the cited Steam listing details |
| Left 4 Dead 2 | Cooperative action-horror, with five campaigns set in the US Deep South | Steam lists SteamOS + Linux and Ubuntu 12.04 as the minimum OS. Listed minimums include a dual-core 2.8 GHz CPU, 2 GB RAM, older NVIDIA or AMD graphics hardware, and 13 GB storage. | Not stated on the cited Steam listing details |
These are Steam store-listed minimums, not performance recommendations or results from testing. The Ubuntu 12.04 minimums shown for Team Fortress 2 and Left 4 Dead 2 do not establish that today’s Steam client supports that old Ubuntu release. Valve’s Steam for Linux documentation notes that older Ubuntu LTS branches may stop working and specifies a current glibc requirement; use a maintained Ubuntu release and check current client support in Ubuntu’s Steam documentation.
Can you play FPS games on Ubuntu?
Yes. Steam has games explicitly listed for SteamOS + Linux, including the three options above. In Steam, filter the Store for SteamOS + Linux titles, then open a game’s listing and check its operating-system compatibility and system requirements. Valve explains how to find supported Linux games in its Steam for Linux games guide and what a platform-availability message means in its platform compatibility support article.
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A Linux listing is a better starting point than assuming a Windows release will run, but it still makes sense to compare the listed OS and hardware requirements with your Ubuntu PC. In particular, check the GPU generation, Vulkan support where specified, and available disk space.
#1 Best Overall
- XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER + USB-C CABLE — Includes the XBOX Wireless Controller in Carbon Black and a 9' USB-C cable. Play wirelessly or plug in for a wired gaming experience, right out of the box.*
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- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience sculpted surfaces and refined geometry designed around how you actually hold a controller. Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of wireless battery life on standard AA batteries. When the batteries run low, plug in the included cable and keep playing without missing a beat.*
Can Proton run Windows FPS games on Ubuntu?
Proton is Valve software used by Steam Play to run some Windows games on Linux. Ubuntu describes Proton in its Configure Proton/Steam Play guide. Compatibility varies by game: being able to install or launch a title does not ensure that all features work reliably. Before choosing a Windows-only FPS, check game-specific compatibility reports and any reported workarounds, as well as its hardware requirements.
Graphics drivers can also affect results. Valve notes that some newer Proton games require cutting-edge drivers that may not be included with the latest Ubuntu release. Check your GPU model and driver stack against the game’s needs; see Valve’s Proton requirements.
Rank #2
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
How to install an FPS game on Ubuntu with Steam
- Install Steam and confirm it starts. Follow the current instructions in Ubuntu’s Steam documentation, which also links to Steam Play setup, controller setup, and troubleshooting.
- Check for Linux support. In the Steam Store, filter for SteamOS + Linux or inspect the game page’s platform information. Read the game’s minimum requirements before downloading.
- For a Windows-only game, configure Steam Play. Follow Ubuntu’s Proton/Steam Play instructions, then verify compatibility for that specific title instead of treating Proton support as a guarantee.
- Check graphics support and free space. Compare the PC’s GPU, drivers, and available storage with the listing. For example, Steam lists 85 GB of storage and current Vulkan drivers for Counter-Strike 2 on Linux.
- Keep the system’s graphics drivers appropriate for the game. If a Proton title does not work as expected, consult its compatibility reports and check whether its required driver support is newer than the drivers available on your Ubuntu installation.
Does “stream” mean cloud gaming here?
Not necessarily. “Stream” can mean cloud gaming from a remote service, Steam Remote Play from your own PC, or simply downloading a game through Steam. The available official information here supports local Steam installation and Proton compatibility; it does not establish a current cloud-streaming service, its Ubuntu client support, catalog, tiers, latency requirements, or availability. Treat the game recommendations above as local-play options, not cloud-streaming recommendations.
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Best Value
- With broad game support, the Logitech Gamepad F310 works with old standbys to today's biggest titles, so it's easy to set up and use with your favorite games.
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Rank #4
- Supported Multi-Platform:Switch/Switch 2 (NO support wake-up function)/iOS/Android/Windows PC (Notice:Not compatible with Xbox, PlayStation or GeForce Now, For game platforms not mentioned, please consult customer service before buying）
- Connection modes:Wired/Bluetooth/Wireless Dongle(Connect to PC via Bluetooth : Select iOS (phone) mode, but it's not recommended; Dongle is more stable)
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- 【Customize Your Own Controller】The intelligent interactive screen allows you to easily set vibrations, buttons, joysticks,lights, etc., without the need for complex key combinations; 4 configurations can be saved to unlock your own gameplay for different games; The 4 back keys support macro definition settings, and you can activate the set character's ultimate move with one click
Rank #3
- Versatile compatibility: supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S consoles and PC Win10 and above (including the game platform Steam).
- Precise control: features Hall joysticks and Hall triggers for a comfortable feeling, long service life and improved game accuracy.
- Plug and Play Convenience: Wired USB connection (removable) for easy setup and instant play without the need for additional drivers.
- Customizable experience: Includes 2 custom backbuttons that allow users to eliminate false triggers and improve their gaming experience.
- Impressive gameplay: Provides a pulsating vibration trigger and an asymmetric vibration grip motor for intense tactile feedback.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
