Bazzite is a Fedora-based[1]Linux distribution designed to be similar to Valve's SteamOS 3 while still functioning as a normal computer.[2][3][4] It offers support for handheld PC devices, including the Steam Deck.[5][6][7][8] Bazzite is named after the mineral of the same name, as Fedora Atomic Desktops historically had used a mineral naming scheme.[9] It aims to deliver a seamless out-of-the-box experience for both casual and advanced Linux gamers.[10]
History
Bazzite 1.0 was initially released in November of 2023 as a custom image of Fedora 38, as a distribution optimized for Linux gaming on PC and Steam Deck.[11]
Bazzite provides a gaming-focused Linux experience with out-of-the-box support for platforms like Steam, Lutris, and Heroic Games Launcher. It includes builds optimized for the Steam Deck and other handheld PCs, featuring controller support and hardware integration. Built on Fedora's rpm-ostree system, Bazzite uses an immutable design with atomic updates and rollback functionality. It supports both GNOME and KDE Plasma desktops, and comes with pre-installed proprietary Nvidia drivers as well as support for the Mesa 3D stack. Bazzite uses a Flatpak-based, sandboxed application ecosystem.[13][14]
Reviews
Bazzite has been praised by gaming and tech publications for its ease of use, performance and optimization for gaming hardware. ZDNet wrote: "If you want to game on Linux, Bazzite should be the first distribution you use."[15]Forbes has been "recommending Bazzite because it's objectively better than Windows for [the ROG Ally]".[16]Eurogamer said: "Bazzite provides a great SteamOS-like experience for Windows handheld users".[17] "Directly comparing Bazzite and Windows, The Verge often found games ran faster, smoother, and used slightly less power with Bazzite's Linux operating system."[18] According to XDA-Developers, "it's not only great for gaming handhelds, but even a desktop PC could be better off using Bazzite instead of Windows".[19] PCGH wrote: "Gamers get a state of the art gaming operating system that combines almost all advantages of SteamOS with atomic updates and is substantially optimized."[20]
