CachyOS Surpasses Arch Linux in Popularity on ProtonDB

Gaming on Linux has seen significant improvements in recent years, evolving from a niche pursuit to a viable alternative for many gamers. A recent shift in the Linux distribution landscape shows CachyOS overtaking Arch Linux as the most reported operating system on ProtonDB, a platform used to track game compatibility with Proton.

The Rise of CachyOS

For years, Arch Linux held the top spot on ProtonDB, representing the most frequently reported distribution among users utilizing Proton to play Windows games on Linux. However, according to Boiling Steam, CachyOS has now surpassed Arch Linux in the number of reports submitted to ProtonDB. This change signifies a growing trend of gamers adopting CachyOS for their Linux gaming needs.

This growth has been gradual, with CachyOS gaining a foothold in early 2024, ultimately taking approximately two years to reach the top position. The increase in reports doesn’t necessarily indicate CachyOS is the “best” gaming distribution, but rather that it’s attracting a larger number of gamers actively testing and reporting on game performance with Proton.

Understanding ProtonDB Data

It’s important to note the context of ProtonDB’s data. The reports collected reflect the experiences of users running games through Proton, and may not be representative of all Linux users or even all Linux gamers. As Boiling Steam points out, this data may not reflect the operating systems used by professionals in fields like cloud architecture. However, it is considered a fine indicator of where the gaming market is shifting.

The data specifically excludes reports from the Steam Deck, and differentiates between Arch Linux and SteamOS desktop reports, labeling the latter as HoloISO. This ensures the reported numbers accurately reflect desktop PC usage and aren’t inflated by the Steam Deck’s popularity.

CachyOS and Gaming Setup

CachyOS simplifies the gaming setup process with meta-packages designed to include essential gaming libraries and tools. Users can install these packages via the command line:

• sudo pacman -S cachyos-gaming-meta (includes gaming-related libraries)
• sudo pacman -S cachyos-gaming-applications (includes tools like Gamescope, Goverlay, MangoHud, and launchers like Steam, Heroic Games Launcher, and Lutris)

Alternatively, users can install both meta-packages through the CachyOS Hello application, found under Apps/Tweaks.

Proton-CachyOS

CachyOS also offers Proton-CachyOS, a modified version of Proton’s bleeding-edge branch, designed to enhance performance and compatibility.

Looking Ahead

The shift in ProtonDB rankings highlights CachyOS’s growing appeal within the Linux gaming community. As CachyOS continues to develop and refine its gaming-focused features, it will be interesting to observe its continued impact on the Linux gaming landscape. Gamers considering Linux for gaming should consult resources like the CachyOS Gaming Wiki, ProtonDB, and Are We Anti-Cheat Yet? to assess game compatibility.