If you’re a PC gamer who’s ever thought about switching to Linux (or already has), you’ve probably asked the big question:
“Can I play my favorite Windows games on Linux?”
The short answer: Yes, often you can.
The longer answer is Proton. ProtonDB will help you with that. ProtonDB, the community compatibility guide, tells you how well Windows games run on Linux when using Proton. This is Steam’s compatibility layer.
This guide will explain what ProtonDB, why it is important for gamers and how to use it, so that you get the best possible experience.
What Is ProtonDB?
ProtonDB is a website created by the gaming community to track and share real-world reports of how Windows games perform on Linux.
Here’s how it works:
- Players run their favorite games on Linux via Proton (Valve’s Wine-based compatibility layer built into Steam).
- They report back to ProtonDB on how well the game works, what tweaks were needed, and any bugs they found.
- The site collects these reports and assigns a compatibility rating from Platinum (runs perfectly out of the box) to Borked (doesn’t run at all).
Think of ProtonDB as TripAdvisor for Linux gaming — except instead of restaurant reviews, you’re getting insider tips on which games work great and which might cause headaches.
Why ProtonDB Matters for Linux Gamers
Gaming on Linux has come a long way. Ten years ago, if you wanted to play AAA titles, you were often out of luck. Today, thanks to Proton and community support, thousands of Windows games run flawlessly on Linux.
ProtonDB makes that possible by:
- Saving you time — You can check if a game works before you buy it.
- Helping you troubleshoot — User reports often include fixes for crashes, controller issues, or launch problems.
- Encouraging developers — High demand and good ProtonDB scores show developers there’s a Linux audience worth supporting.
How to Use ProtonDB
Using ProtonDB is easy and takes just a few clicks:
1. Search for Your Game
Go to ProtonDB.com and type the name of the game you want to check.
2. Check the Rating
Ratings go from:
- Platinum – Runs perfectly without tweaks.
- Gold – Runs well but might need small changes.
- Silver – Playable but with noticeable issues.
- Bronze – Runs, but with major problems.
- Borked – Doesn’t work at all.
3. Read the Reports
Each game has multiple user reports with:
- Hardware setup (GPU, CPU, RAM)
- Linux distribution used (Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, etc.)
- Proton version that worked best
- Special tweaks or launch options needed
4. Apply the Tips
If a game needs a specific launch flag or older Proton version, ProtonDB users will usually tell you exactly how to set it up.
Tips for Getting the Best Experience with ProtonDB
If you’re using ProtonDB regularly, here’s how to make the most of it:
- Use the latest Proton version — In Steam, enable Steam Play for all titles and try Proton Experimental first.
- Check multiple reports — Don’t rely on just one review; look for trends.
- Match your hardware — Pay attention to reports from players with similar GPUs and CPUs.
- Contribute back — If you get a game working, submit your own report to help others.
Limitations of ProtonDB
While ProtonDB is incredibly helpful, it’s not perfect:
- Performance varies — A game that runs well on one setup might struggle on another.
- Reports can be outdated — A “Borked” game six months ago might run flawlessly today after updates.
- Not all fixes are beginner-friendly — Some tweaks may require terminal commands or config edits.
That’s why it’s best to combine ProtonDB info with your own testing.
ProtonDB and the Future of Linux Gaming
Linux gaming is no longer a niche hobby — with Steam Deck using Linux under the hood, more developers are paying attention. ProtonDB’s role is becoming even more important because:
- It creates transparency between gamers and developers.
- It speeds up problem-solving for new releases.
- It helps Valve fine-tune Proton with real-world feedback.
As more players submit reports, the easier it becomes for others to jump into Linux gaming without fear of compatibility issues.
Final Thoughts
ProtonDB is the resource you should use if you are a Linux gamer or if your goal is to become one. It will tell you what works and what doesn’t.
You’ll avoid frustration by checking ProtonDB first before purchasing a game ,and you’ll help the community to grow.
ProtonDB, one of the key reasons for Linux gaming’s improved performance on Linux, is a major factor.
FAQs About ProtonDB
1. Is ProtonDB free to use?
Yes — ProtonDB is a free, community-driven website. Anyone can search for games or submit compatibility reports.
2. Do I need to register to use ProtonDB?
No, you can browse without an account. However, creating a free account lets you submit reports and track your submissions.
3. Does ProtonDB only cover Steam games?
Primarily, yes — but many non-Steam games work with Proton via custom configurations.
4. Will all my Windows games work on Linux with Proton?
Not all, but the list is growing. Check ProtonDB before buying to avoid disappointment.
5. Can I trust the ratings on ProtonDB?
Ratings are based on real user reports, but performance can vary. Always read multiple reviews to get a full picture.