How to install Steam on Ubuntu 19.10

Introduction to Steam on Ubuntu

Steam is a digital distribution platform developed by Valve Corporation, primarily used for purchasing, downloading, and playing video games. It has grown in popularity and has a vast library that caters to a wide array of gaming preferences. While primarily designed for Windows, Steam also supports Linux operating systems, including Ubuntu, which is one of the most popular distributions. This guide will provide a comprehensive step-by-step approach to installing Steam on Ubuntu 19.10, ensuring that both novice and experienced users can enjoy their favorite games seamlessly.

What You Need to Know Before Installation

System Requirements

Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to check if your system meets the required specifications:

• Operating System: Ubuntu 19.10 or later
• Processor: 64-bit processor
• Memory: Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
• Graphics: NVIDIA, Intel, or AMD graphics with up-to-date drivers
• Storage: Minimum of 1 GB available space for the Steam client

Installing Required Dependencies

During the installation process, you might require some additional software packages. Ubuntu automatically handles most dependencies, but ensuring your system is up-to-date can prevent issues later.

1. Open Terminal: You can easily do this by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.

2. Run Update Commands: Type the following commands one after another to update your system packages:

   bash
   sudo apt update
   sudo apt upgrade

By keeping your system updated, you can avoid compatibility issues with games and ensure that the Steam client functions smoothly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Install Steam on Ubuntu 19.10

Method 1: Using the Terminal

This method is ideal for users familiar with command-line interfaces.

1. Install Steam:

   To begin the installation, type the following command into your terminal:

   bash
   sudo apt install steam

   This command will prompt you for your password and will proceed to fetch and install the Steam package along with any required dependencies.

2. Launch Steam:

   Once the installation is complete, you can launch Steam by typing steam into the terminal, or you can search for it in the applications menu. The first time you launch Steam, it will download additional updates, which may take a short time.

Method 2: Using the GUI (Graphical user interface)

If you prefer a more visual approach, installing Steam through the Ubuntu Software Center is user-friendly.

1. Open Ubuntu Software Center: Click on the “Show Applications” icon at the bottom left of the screen, and type “Software” in the search bar.

2. Search for Steam: Once in the Software Center, use the search feature to find “Steam.”

3. Install Steam: Click on the Steam icon and then select the “Install” button. The application will download and install automatically.

4. Launch Steam: After installation, you can find Steam in the applications menu, and you can open it to download games.

Ensuring graphics drivers are Installed

Having the correct graphics drivers is crucial for optimal performance in games. Ubuntu often includes the open-source drivers by default, but proprietary drivers can provide better performance.

1. Open Software & Updates: Go to System Settings > Software & Updates, and then switch to the “Additional Drivers” tab.
2. Select Graphics Drivers: If you see any proprietary drivers available for your graphics card (NVIDIA or AMD), select them and click “Apply Changes.”
3. Restart Your Computer: After applying the changes, it’s a good idea to restart your machine to ensure everything loads properly.

Configuring Steam for Optimal gaming experience

Upon first launching Steam, you will need to log in to your existing account or create a new one.

Initial Setup

• Login or Create an Account: If you already have an account, enter your credentials. If you are new to Steam, follow the on-screen instructions to create your account.

• Set Preferences: Once logged in, adjust your preferences regarding game downloads, library organization, and community settings through the Steam menu options.

Verifying Game Files

If you already have games in your library or are installing new ones, you can optimize the installation process by verifying the integrity of the game files:

1. Right-click on the game title in your library.
2. Select Properties, then navigate to the Local Files tab.
3. Click on Verify Integrity of Game Files. This will ensure that your game files are up to date and free from corruption.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Although installing Steam on Ubuntu 19.10 is straightforward, you may encounter some common issues:

Steam Doesn’t Launch

• Install Missing Dependencies: Sometimes, missing libraries can prevent Steam from opening. Running the following command may help:

  bash
  sudo apt install libgl1-mesa-dri libgl1-mesa-glx

• Check Compatibility: Ensure that your graphics drivers are updated to resolve potential conflicts.

Games Won’t Start

Several issues can arise if games won’t launch:

• Graphics Settings: Lower your graphics settings within the game, as high settings can strain older hardware.
• Check Logs: Use the terminal to check log files for errors, which can provide clues on what is going wrong.

Internet connectivity issues

If Steam has trouble connecting to the internet, ensure that your firewall isn’t blocking it. Adjust firewall settings or temporarily disable it to test if it resolves the issue.

Conclusion

Installing Steam on Ubuntu 19.10 can provide an excellent platform for gaming with access to a vast library of games. Whether you follow the command line method or the graphical method, the process is relatively simple. With the correct setup, updating drivers, and troubleshooting common issues, you can immerse yourself in gaming on the Linux platform.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I uninstall Steam from Ubuntu?

To uninstall Steam, you can use the terminal. Run the following command:

bash
sudo apt remove steam

This will remove Steam from your system.

Can I play Windows-only games on Steam for Ubuntu?

Yes, you can use a compatibility layer called Proton, included in Steam, which allows you to play many Windows-only games on your Linux system. Simply enable Proton in the Steam settings under the Steam Play tab.

Is Steam available for other Linux distributions?

Yes, Steam is available for various Linux distributions, including Fedora, Arch Linux, and Debian, in addition to Ubuntu.

What if my game is not available on Steam?

If a game you wish to play is not available on Steam, you can explore platforms such as GOG (Good Old Games), Epic Games Store, or other independent game distributors that may offer Linux support.

Are there performance issues with Steam on Linux compared to Windows?

Performance can vary depending on the game and the hardware used. While many games run smoothly on Linux, some may not be as optimized compared to their Windows counterparts due to the lack of support from developers.