Like perhaps many others I am debating what to do with my PC at the end of support for windows 10 later this year. I have read a lot of discussions here about switching to Linux, and a lot of commentary that though it has gotten a lot more plug and play it maybe still has some weaknesses. I just want to know what those are, and if it can support what I currently do with my computer.
Basically my computer is just for gaming. I play a plethora of games both major titles and small indy games. I also use mods on my games sometimes. Beyond gaming it's just basic web browsing.
More specific questions:
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I think I need to pick a "distro", right? Based on the above, which distro may work best for me?
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what am I most likely to NOT be able to do, if anything? I have heard modding in particular can be challenging with Linux. Like Skyrim mods that use a script extender or rely on various Windows programs. Is that true? Are there some smaller indy games that don't have Linux support (thinking back to the early mac days)?
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I would rate my computer technical ability at like..... A 4/10. I haven't done anything too crazy but can Google most issues and willing to learn. Is this realistically enough to get me up and running with Linux? I don't have any programming experience or anything of the sort.
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if the final answer here involves running a windows partition, is it possible to safely still use a windows 10 partition, even after the end of support? Or does it need to be a windows 11 partition? Best case is no partition, but curious if it comes to that.
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anything else I might run into that I'm not expecting? Words of encouragement?
If you own a pc to game on it, I cannot recommend Linux compared to Windows ~~LTSC IoT~~ (Don't use LTSC versions for gaming and everyday use)
It is possible to use Linux for gaming, but you're gonna have to fidget a lot in order to get a good experience, where as Windows just has gaming out of the box.
Proton is a wonderful resource (Thanks Gabe) and I'm personally keeping an eye out for Bottles Next
So it ultimately depends on how you want to spend your time during a gaming session, and the types of games you play.
Summary:
I'd recommend you to stay on Windows if your main concern is gaming.
However, if you're set on trying Linux, then I recommend Linux Mint: https://linuxmint.com/ (If you're unsure which version to pick and just want to get started, pick the Cinnamon version)
Edit: Formatting
Edit 2.0 Correct definitions and better advice
My main usage of my PC is gaming and I have been happily using Linux Mint for a while now, Proton can do a lot for you. However you do have to write off certain games because of their anti-cheat and be willing to do a bit of fiddling sometimes.