How to install Steam on Ubuntu 17.10 via PlayOnLinux

Introduction to Steam and PlayOnLinux on Ubuntu 17.10

If you are a Linux enthusiast or a casual gamer, you’ve probably heard of Steam. As one of the most popular digital distribution platforms for video games, Steam supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. For Ubuntu users, particularly those on version 17.10, the installation process may not be straightforward, considering that gaming on Linux has historically faced compatibility issues with Windows games. However, with a tool like PlayOnLinux, this has become significantly easier. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of installing Steam on Ubuntu 17.10 using PlayOnLinux, explaining not only the “how,” but also the “why” behind each step.

What is PlayOnLinux?

PlayOnLinux is a graphical frontend for Wine, a compatibility layer that allows Linux users to run Windows applications. While Wine alone can be somewhat complex to use due to its command-line nature, PlayOnLinux simplifies this by offering a user-friendly interface. It also provides pre-configured installation scripts for many popular Windows applications, making it easier to run them on a Linux system without needing to manually configure Wine settings.

Why Use PlayOnLinux?

1. User-Friendly Interface: PlayOnLinux makes it easy for users who may not be comfortable using command-line tools.

2. Pre-configured Installers: The platform comes with scripts for many popular Windows applications and games, reducing the setup process to just a few clicks.

3. Game Management: PlayOnLinux helps in managing different versions of Wine for different applications, enabling better compatibility.

4. Community Support: A strong user community means more updates and assistance if you encounter issues.

Now that we understand what PlayOnLinux is and why it’s beneficial, let’s proceed to the installation of Steam itself.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before you do anything else, it’s essential to ensure your Ubuntu system is up to date. This helps avoid potential compatibility issues with packages and dependencies.

To update your system, open the terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T. Then, type:

bash
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This command retrieves the list of the latest packages and installs any updates available. The -y flag automatically accepts all prompts, making the process smoother.

Step 2: Install PlayOnLinux

With your system updated, the next step is to install PlayOnLinux. While PlayOnLinux might be available in the repository, it’s often beneficial to install the latest version directly from their official site. Here are the steps to do that:

1. Open a Terminal Window.

2. Install the Required Dependencies: Before installing PlayOnLinux, make sure you have the essential packages installed:

   bash
   sudo apt install software-properties-common

3. Add the PlayOnLinux Repository:

   bash
   sudo add-apt-repository ppa:noobslab/apps

4. Update the Package List Again:

   bash
   sudo apt update

5. Install PlayOnLinux:

   bash
   sudo apt install playonlinux

After that, you can run PlayOnLinux from your applications menu.

Step 3: Configure PlayOnLinux

Once PlayOnLinux is installed, you’ll want to configure it to ensure all the necessary components for running Steam are present. When you launch PlayOnLinux for the first time, it will prompt you to install additional Wine packages. It’s generally a good idea to accept these installations for optimal compatibility.

1. Open PlayOnLinux and Click on “Install a Program.”
2. In the search bar, type Steam. This will bring up the Steam installation option.
3. Click on Steam, and then click on Install to initiate the installation process.

Follow the Installation Wizard

The PlayOnLinux installation wizard will guide you through the installation. Make sure to read each prompt carefully; this is where it might ask you to install additional components (like DirectX or Visual C++ Redistributable), which are needed for Steam to work smoothly on Ubuntu.

Step 4: Launch Steam

After the installation is complete, you can now launch Steam from PlayOnLinux. Here’s how:

1. Go back to the main interface of PlayOnLinux.
2. Click on Installed.
3. Select Steam from the list and click on the Run button.

Upon launching, Steam will update itself and prompt you to log in. If you don’t have a Steam account, you can easily create one right from the client.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While using PlayOnLinux to run Steam is generally straightforward, issues might arise. Here are some potential problems and their solutions:

1. Steam Fails to Launch

If Steam does not open after installation:

• Ensure that all dependencies were installed correctly. Checking for missing libraries or updating Wine versions through PlayOnLinux might help.

2. Game Installation Issues

If installed games are not launching:

• Make sure you’re using the correct Wine version recommended by PlayOnLinux for that particular game. Different games may require different Wine configurations.

3. performance issues

If games run slowly:

• Tune the Wine settings, or consider installing a more recent version of Wine or PlayOnLinux, as updates often improve performance.

Additional Considerations for Ubuntu 17.10 Users

Ubuntu 17.10, also known as “Artful Aardvark,” uses the GNOME desktop environment, which might differ significantly from previous Ubuntu versions. As you navigate through PlayOnLinux and Steam, you might notice performance differences and features associated with GNOME.

Moreover, be aware that support for Ubuntu 17.10 has officially ended, and it’s strongly recommended to upgrade to a more recent version of Ubuntu for security updates and improved software compatibility.

Conclusion

Installing Steam on Ubuntu 17.10 using PlayOnLinux is a powerful option for gamers who love the flexibility of Linux. While it might seem daunting at first, the steps outlined above should streamline the process. By utilizing PlayOnLinux’s user-friendly interface and Wine’s compatibility capabilities, you can dive into a gaming experience that rivals that of traditional operating systems.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use PlayOnLinux with other games besides Steam?

Absolutely! PlayOnLinux supports many Windows applications and games, not just Steam. The installation process will vary depending on the application but generally follows a similar approach.

2. Is PlayOnLinux free?

Yes, PlayOnLinux is free and open-source software. You can download and use it without any cost.

3. What if my game isn’t working on PlayOnLinux?

You can consult the PlayOnLinux forums or the Wine App Database, where users share their experiences and setups. Sometimes, specific settings or versions of Wine may be recommended.

4. Do I need to purchase games on Steam?

Yes, most games on Steam require purchase. However, frequently Steam offers sales and discounts, making gaming more affordable.

5. Is Linux a good platform for gaming?

Linux has made significant strides in gaming, especially with platforms like Steam introducing more support. While some games may still only be available for Windows, many popular titles now have native Linux versions or can be played using Wine or PlayOnLinux.

6. Should I upgrade my Ubuntu version?

Yes, upgrading to a current version of Ubuntu will provide you with better support and performance improvements for applications, including gaming.