NVIDIA Releases GeForce Now App for Linux

NVIDIA has expanded the availability of its GeForce Now cloud gaming service by releasing a native application for Linux. Following the successful launch of the client for Steam Deck, the company has introduced a desktop version, officially supporting Ubuntu 24.04 and SteamOS. The client is distributed as a Flatpak, which theoretically allows installation on most x86-64 Linux distributions, despite only Ubuntu being officially listed as supported.

A key advantage of GeForce Now's integration with Linux is the indirect access it provides to games from Microsoft's PC Game Pass subscription. Since the native Xbox app for Windows is unavailable on Linux, NVIDIA's cloud service becomes one of the few legitimate ways to tap into this gaming library. Beyond that, the service supports linking accounts from Steam, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, Ubisoft Connect, and EA, bringing together over 4,500 games in a single interface.

Independent tests conducted on Fedora and Pop!_OS distributions showed high-quality performance. In games demanding quick reactions, such as ARC Raiders and Call of Duty: Warzone, input lag was minimal, making gameplay comfortable; however, noticeable stutters and packet loss were observed when using Wi-Fi with a suboptimal signal. An important aspect is the ability to play titles with anti-cheat systems that do not natively support Linux.

Currently, official support is limited to Ubuntu 24.04 and SteamOS. Attempts to run it on other distributions, for example on Bazzite, may lead to unstable operation and errors. The service offers several subscription tiers: a free tier (with ads, a 1-hour session limit, and 1080p/60 FPS quality) and paid Performance and Ultimate subscriptions. The latter provides access to RTX 5080-grade hardware, 4K streaming, and up to 240 FPS, but has a monthly limit of 100 gaming hours.

It's worth noting that GeForce Now is not officially available in Russia, with the nearest servers located in Armenia. Some users access the service on their own initiative, accepting all associated risks. The arrival of an official GeForce Now client for Linux is a significant expansion of gaming possibilities for the platform, offering an alternative to local hardware and bypassing systemic game compatibility limitations.