Playtron And The Rise Of Linux Handhelds

Summary

The script discusses the resurgence of interest in handheld gaming PCs following the Steam Deck's launch, with devices like Asus ROG Ally and Aya Neo gaining traction. It critiques the focus on Web3 crypto gaming, arguing that game quality should precede monetization. The script also delves into Playtron OS, a Linux-based system, and its controversial ties to crypto investors despite offering optional crypto features. It highlights the importance of supporting open-source projects like Lutris, which benefits from Playtron's funding, and urges a fair critique of the situation.

Takeaways

• 🎮 The Steam Deck's success has sparked renewed interest in handheld gaming PCs, leading to a variety of new devices entering the market.
• 🐧 There's a growing trend of running Linux on handheld gaming devices, with SteamOS being based on Arch Linux and other devices like the Orange Pi Neo running Manjaro.
• 🚀 Companies are exploring Linux-based handhelds, with Playtron showing mockups and Mysten Labs developing the Sui Play 0x1, targeting Web3 crypto gaming enthusiasts.
• 💸 Web3 gaming is criticized for focusing more on the cryptocurrency aspect rather than the gameplay experience, resulting in short game life cycles.
• 🎰 Games like Genshin Impact are compared to slot machines but are noted for having engaging gameplay loops and appealing aesthetics.
• 🌐 Playtron OS is a Linux-based OS that aims to provide a console-like experience on various devices, supporting multiple game stores out of the box.
• 🔄 Playtron OS is based on Fedora Silverblue, making it an atomic distro, which is beneficial for handheld devices and non-Linux users.
• 🍷 Playtron has ties to crypto companies, which has raised concerns, but the use of blockchain features in games will be optional.
• 💼 Playtron's funding and involvement in FOSS projects like Lutris are seen as a way to support developers and improve open-source software.
• 👨‍💻 Mathieu Comandon from Lutris has joined Playtron to work on UI development, highlighting the need for financial support to sustain FOSS projects.

Q & A

What sparked the renewed interest in handheld gaming PCs?

The launch of the Steam Deck a few years back reignited interest in handheld PCs, particularly for gaming.

Which operating system is SteamOS based on?

SteamOS is based on Arch Linux.

What is the issue with Web3 gaming according to the script?

The issue with Web3 gaming is that developers are focusing on making a Web3 game rather than a fun game, leading to a short life cycle for these games.

How does the script describe the business model of Genshin Impact?

Genshin Impact is described as an 'infinite money pit' and a 'slot machine targeted at children,' but with a fun gameplay loop attached.

What is Playtron OS and what is its connection to Mysten Labs?

Playtron OS is a Linux-based operating system that aims to provide a console-like experience on all devices with support for multiple storefronts. Mysten Labs is an investor in Playtron.

What is the significance of Playtron OS being based on Fedora Silverblue?

Being based on Fedora Silverblue makes Playtron OS an atomic distro, which is beneficial for handheld devices as it provides a stable and consistent user experience.

Why does the script suggest that Playtron OS initially only supports Windows games using Wine?

Playtron OS initially supports Windows games using Wine, possibly due to the modified version of Fedora Silverblue not including sensible libraries for native Linux game support, which is set to be added in the future.

What is the stance of Playtron OS regarding crypto integration?

While Playtron OS is funded by crypto companies, the integration of crypto features is optional and not required for the use of the operating system.

How does the script justify the involvement of FOSS developers with Playtron despite its crypto ties?

The script justifies the involvement by highlighting that FOSS developers need financial support to continue their work, and Playtron provides funding that allows them to improve and maintain their projects.

What is the role of Mathieu Comandon of Lutris in relation to Playtron?

Mathieu Comandon joined Playtron as a developer, primarily working on the UI side of things, to help develop Playtron OS and support the continued development of the Lutris project.