Introduction

Steam, the popular platform for PC gaming, has become a staple for many gamers. However, when attempting to launch Steam games on Linux Mint, a few common issues might arise. This article aims to guide you through various troubleshooting steps that can help resolve these issues. Let's dive into the details.

Checking System Requirements

Before diving into more complex troubleshooting steps, it's crucial to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for the game you are trying to run. Each game will specify its recommended and minimum system specifications. These typically include:

RAM: The minimum amount of memory required to run the game. Processor: The minimum hardware specifications for the CPU. Graphics Card: The requirements for 3D rendering and performance. Storage Space: The amount of hard drive space needed to install the game.

Follow these steps to verify your system specifications:

Right-click on the game in your Steam library and select Properties. Navigate to the Local Files tab and click on Verify Integrity of Game Files… to ensure all files are intact.

Updating Steam

Ensure you have the latest version of the Steam client to avoid any compatibility issues. You can update it through the Steam client or by running the following command in the terminal:

Update and Upgrade Packages

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Installing Missing Dependencies

Certain games may require additional libraries or dependencies. Running the following commands can help ensure that common libraries are installed:

Install Common Libraries

sudo apt install libgl1-mesa-glx libgl1-mesa-dri

Configuring Proton for Windows Games

If you're trying to run a Windows game, ensure that Proton is enabled. Proton is a compatibility layer that allows Steam games to run on these steps to enable Proton:

Open the Steam application and go to Settings. Select the Interface tab and then Languages and other settings. Scroll down to the Graphics section and select Proton. Choose the Proton version to use with your game from the dropdown menu.

Ensuring Correct Graphics Drivers

Correct graphics drivers are essential for optimal performance and compatibility. Here's how you can install the right drivers:

NVIDIA Users: Install the proprietary NVIDIA drivers. Run the following command in the terminal: Install NVIDIA Drivers

sudo apt install nvidia-driver-version

AMD Users: Open the Additional Drivers manager to ensure your open-source AMD drivers are up to date. This can be done through the system's graphical interface or via the terminal.

Verifying Game Files

Just as with the local files integrity check, verifying game files is crucial for a smooth gaming experience:

Right-click on the game in your Steam library and select Properties. Go to the Local Files tab and click on Verify Integrity of Game Files….

Launching the Game from Terminal

Leverage the terminal to get more detailed information when launching the game:

Launch Game from Terminal

steam steam://rungameid/gameid

Replace gameid with the actual ID of the game you're trying to run.

Pay attention to any error messages that appear and note them down for further troubleshooting.

Checking Logs

For more detailed error messages and troubleshooting information, check the logs:

Open the terminal and navigate to: ~/.local/share/Steam/logs or ~

Community Solutions

For specific issues, community solutions can prove invaluable. Check the Steam Community Hub for known issues and fixes shared by other users. This can provide in-depth advice tailored to your particular scenario.

Reinstalling the Game

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling the game:

Uninstall the game from the Steam application. Redownload and reinstall the game through Steam.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve most issues preventing you from launching Steam games on Linux Mint. If you still encounter problems, don't hesitate to seek help from the Linux gaming forums or the Steam support community. Happy gaming!