If you are interested in a Linux distribution specialized for gaming, Bazzite might be the right choice for you. This Fedora-based Linux distro is engineered to suit the gaming requirements on both traditional Linux desktops and the rising platform, the Steam Deck. In this article, we delve deep into the distinct aspects of Bazzite, focusing on its characteristics, capabilities, and recent updates.
An Overview of Bazzite
Base and Support
Bazzite is built upon the newly released Fedora 38. It uses Universal Blue, which is an OCI base image of Fedora. The distro extends its compatibility by supporting a variety of hardware, including Microsoft Surface devices. Key drivers come pre-installed to offer a smooth initial experience.
Unique Features
Among the many features that make Bazzite unique are:
- Proprietary Nvidia Drivers: These come pre-installed, eliminating the need for manual installation.
- H264 Hardware Acceleration: Bazzite supports hardware-accelerated H264 decoding, which is beneficial for smoother gameplay and video streaming.
- Waydroid Implementation: This feature allows users to run Android apps, expanding the utility of the system.
- Xbox Controller Support: Thanks to the implementation of xone, xpadneo, and xpad-noone, Xbox controllers are readily supported.
Initial Impressions After Testing
Installation Experience
The installation process for Bazzite is comparable to that of Fedora. However, the post-installation phase highlights the distinctions. Bazzite employs the KDE Plasma 5.27 desktop environment as its default setting, complete with Steam Deck-inspired branding throughout the operating system.
Variants and Configuration
Bazzite offers different ISOs tailored for PCs and Steam Deck, including an NVIDIA-focused variant and a GNOME variant for those who prefer it over KDE. Configuration is streamlined via the 'Bazzite Portal' application, which guides users through essential steps, including the optional installation of Open Razer.