How to install Steam on Ubuntu 18.04 in 2020

Installing Steam on Ubuntu 18.04: A Comprehensive Guide

Ubuntu has evolved into one of the most user-friendly Linux distributions available, attracting an increasingly larger gaming community. With the release of Steam, one of the foremost gaming platforms in the world, the possibility of playing high-quality games on Linux is becoming a reality. If you’re looking to install Steam on Ubuntu 18.04, this guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you have everything you need for an optimized gaming experience.

Prerequisites for Installation

Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to ensure that your system meets the necessary prerequisites. While Ubuntu 18.04 can run most applications, having the right components will enhance your gaming experience on Steam.

1. System Requirements:

   • A supported version of Ubuntu (in this case, Ubuntu 18.04).
   • At least 4GB of RAM (though more is better for optimal performance).
   • A compatible graphics card with up-to-date drivers.
   • An active internet connection for downloading Steam and games.

2. Update Your System:
   It’s advisable to check for any available updates for your current system. Running the latest version of packages will help prevent compatibility issues. Open your terminal (you can do this easily by searching for “Terminal” in the app launcher) and enter the following commands:

   bash
   sudo apt update
   sudo apt upgrade

Installing Steam

Now that your system is ready, let’s get started with the installation process.

Method 1: Utilizing the Ubuntu Software Center

1. Open the Ubuntu Software Center:

   • Search for “Software” in your app launcher and open it.

2. Search for Steam:

   • In the Software Center, click on the search icon and type “Steam”.
   • The application should appear in the search results.

3. Install Steam:

   • Click on the Steam entry, and then click the “Install” button.
   • You may be prompted for your user password to continue.

4. Launch Steam:

   • Once installed, you can launch Steam directly from the Software Center or find it in your app launcher.

Method 2: Installing via Terminal

For users who prefer terminal commands, the installation can also be accomplished using the command line. This method typically offers more control and is often quicker.

1. Open Terminal:

   • You can do this by searching for “Terminal” in the application menu.

2. Add the Multiverse Repository:
   Steam is located in the Multiverse repository, which may not be enabled by default. Add it by running:

   bash
   sudo add-apt-repository multiverse

3. Update Package List:
   After adding the repository, update your package list again:

   bash
   sudo apt update

4. Install Steam:
   Now, install Steam with the following command:

   bash
   sudo apt install steam

5. Launch Steam:
   After the installation completes, you can start Steam by typing steam in your terminal or by finding it in your application menu.

First Steps After Installation

Upon successfully launching Steam, you’ll be prompted to log in or create a new account if you don’t already have one. Here’s what to do next:

1. Login or Sign Up:

   • Enter your Steam account credentials or create a new account if you are new to the platform.

2. Updating Steam:

   • Steam will automatically download updates if necessary. Wait for the update to finish before proceeding to your game library.

3. Explore the Library:

   • Familiarize yourself with the Steam interface. You can browse your library, shop for new games, and review the community features.

graphics drivers for Optimal Performance

To ensure your gaming experience is smooth and visually appealing, having the right graphics drivers is crucial. If you haven’t already installed proprietary drivers for your graphics hardware, here’s a quick overview:

1. NVIDIA Users:

   • Open the “Software & Updates” application, and navigate to the “Additional Drivers” tab.
   • Here, you will see a list of available drivers for your NVIDIA hardware. It is generally recommended to choose the option labeled “NVIDIA driver metapackage”.

2. AMD Users:

   • AMD graphics cards are usually well-supported by open-source drivers, but you may want to install the proprietary drivers (AMDGPU-PRO) for better gaming performance if they are available.

3. Intel Graphics:

   • Intel graphics drivers are generally included in the kernel, and you won’t need to install additional drivers for the most part.

Configuring Steam Settings

To enhance your gaming experience, consider configuring a few settings in Steam:

1. Steam Play:

   • For those wanting to play Windows-exclusive titles, ensure that Steam Play is enabled for a wider compatibility range.
   • Go to Steam > Settings > Steam Play and check ‘Enable Steam Play for supported titles’ as well as ‘Enable Steam Play for all other titles’.

2. In-Game Settings:

   • Adjust your in-game settings, such as resolution and graphics quality, to balance performance and aesthetic appeal.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While installing Steam on Ubuntu 18.04 is generally straightforward, you may encounter some issues. Here are common problems and their solutions:

• Steam Won’t Start:

  • Check if necessary libraries are installed:
    bash
    sudo apt-get install libgl1-mesa-dri:i386 libgl1-mesa-glx:i386

• Game Compatibility:

  • Not all Windows games work flawlessly on Linux through Steam Play. Always check for community reports regarding a game’s compatibility through the ProtonDB website.

Conclusion

By following this guide, you should now have Steam installed on your Ubuntu 18.04 system, ready for you to explore a vast library of games. Remember that Ubuntu, in conjunction with Steam, opens up new avenues for gaming beyond traditional operating systems. Happy gaming!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I run Windows games on Steam for Linux?

   • Yes, thanks to Steam Play and Proton, many Windows games can be played on Linux systems. Check ProtonDB for compatibility details.

2. How do I uninstall Steam?

   • You can uninstall Steam by running sudo apt remove steam in the terminal or through the Ubuntu Software Center by locating Steam and selecting “Remove”.

3. Will my games sync between Windows and Linux?

   • Yes, if you own a game on Steam, your saves and progress will sync across platforms as long as the game supports cloud saving.

4. Are there any performance issues when playing games on Linux?

   • Performance can vary by game. Some users report excellent performance while others may experience lower frame rates. Adjust settings within the game for better performance.

5. How do I find games that are compatible with Linux on Steam?

   • You can filter games by the “Linux” operating system in the Steam store to see a list of available titles.

6. Can I run Steam on other versions of Ubuntu?

   • Yes, Steam is supported on various versions of Ubuntu and other Debian-based distributions. Always ensure that your system meets the requirements.