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Best online Ubuntu (Linux) games

by Matt Remley

Good online games can be hard to find, however for those of us using the Linux distribution Ubuntu it can be a nightmare. While Windows games technically aren't compatible with Ubuntu, it is possible to play them using programs such as Wine or PlayOnLinux. This makes finding great online Ubuntu games fairly hard, but not impossible.

Ubuntu games can be found in the operating systems by clicking Applications, then Ubuntu Software Center. Also, Linux gamers can find lists of online Ubuntu games all over the Internet, but finding the good ones is the hard part. Regarding native online-playable Ubuntu games, here is a list of the best so far.

Americas Army

Developed by the United States Army as a recruitment tool, Americas Army is one of the best online games for Ubuntu. This fast paced first person shooter is very similar to Counter Strike, so fans of that will be pleased with Americas Army. Take note that this game was also developed for Windows and Mac, however the Linux version isn't as advanced.

Alien Arena 2007

Another first person shooter that is quite popular for Linux is Alien Arena 2007. While the game does have programmable bots in single players to practice with, the real game lies when going online against players. Gamers that join in on this game are up for a challenge, as most of Alien Arena's current players are veterans of the game.

EvE Online

Another online game that was developed first for other operating systems, EvE Online, which happens to have a massive fan base and player pool compared to other Ubuntu games. While Eve may not be for everyone, it is one of the most popular MMORPG's played on Ubuntu and is long running so there's no doubt it it has a great number of active players.

Other online games for Ubuntu might be Regnum Online, or the many first person shooters listed in the Ubuntu software center. The list of MMORPG's for Ubuntu is small at this point, but hopefully it will grow. Games such as A Tale in the Desert or Second Life are also developed for Ubuntu, and have interestingly similar game play styles.

As Linux becomes increasingly popular, more types of games will be developed for the operating system that is sure to be ground breaking for years to come. While some of these games may not be exclusive to Ubuntu, they are however amazing games in their own right and shouldn't be underestimated.

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