Gaming on Linux has come a long way, and Ubuntu users now have excellent access to thousands of games through Steam. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux user or new to Ubuntu, installing Steam doesn’t have to be complicated. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through multiple methods to get Steam running on your Ubuntu system, from the simplest GUI approach to advanced command-line installations.

What is Steam and Why Install it on Ubuntu?

Steam is the world’s largest digital gaming platform, boasting over 132 million monthly active users and more than 50,000 games in its library. Originally designed for Windows, Steam has significantly expanded its Linux support, making Ubuntu an increasingly viable gaming platform.

Steam’s Gaming Library Statistics

The numbers speak for themselves – Steam’s Linux catalog has grown exponentially:

• Over 7,000 games now run natively on Linux
• Proton compatibility layer enables thousands more Windows games to run seamlessly
• Major AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, and Grand Theft Auto V work through Proton

Ubuntu Gaming Market Growth

Ubuntu’s gaming ecosystem has experienced remarkable growth. According to Steam’s hardware survey, Linux users represent approximately 1.96% of Steam’s user base, with Ubuntu accounting for the largest portion of Linux gamers. This growing market share has encouraged more developers to create native Linux versions of their games.

Prerequisites for Installing Steam on Ubuntu

Before diving into installation methods, let’s ensure your system meets the requirements and is properly configured for optimal gaming performance.

System Requirements

Steam runs on most modern Ubuntu installations, but here are the minimum specifications:

• Ubuntu version: 18.04 LTS or newer (20.04, 22.04, 24.04 recommended)
• RAM: 4GB minimum (8GB+ recommended for modern games)
• Storage: 5GB free space for Steam client (games require additional space)
• Graphics: Any OpenGL 2.1 compatible graphics card
• Network: Broadband internet connection

Ubuntu Version Compatibility

Different Ubuntu versions may require slightly different installation approaches:

• Ubuntu 24.04: All methods work seamlessly
• Ubuntu 22.04: Fully supported with all installation methods
• Ubuntu 20.04: Complete compatibility, recommended for stability
• Ubuntu 18.04: Still supported but consider upgrading for better performance

Graphics Drivers Setup

Proper graphics drivers are crucial for gaming performance. If you have an NVIDIA graphics card, install the proprietary drivers:

sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall

For AMD users, the open-source drivers are usually sufficient, but you can install additional packages:

sudo apt install mesa-vulkan-drivers libvulkan1

Method 1: Install Steam via Ubuntu Software Center (Easiest)

For most users, especially those new to Linux, the graphical method is the most straightforward approach. This method uses Ubuntu’s built-in software center and requires no command-line knowledge.

Step-by-Step GUI Installation

1. Open Ubuntu Software Center: Click on the “Show Applications” icon (nine dots) in the bottom-left corner and search for “Ubuntu Software” or “Software.”
2. Search for Steam: In the software center, use the search bar at the top and type “Steam.”
3. Select Steam: You’ll see Steam appear in the search results. Click on the Steam application icon.
4. Install Steam: Click the “Install” button. You’ll be prompted to enter your password to authorize the installation.
5. Wait for Installation: The system will automatically download and install Steam along with all necessary dependencies. This process typically takes 3-5 minutes depending on your internet speed.
6. Launch Steam: Once installation is complete, you can launch Steam either from the software center or by searching for it in your applications menu.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during GUI installation:

• “Package not found” error: Update your package lists by opening Terminal and running sudo apt update
• Installation fails: Check your internet connection and ensure you have sufficient disk space
• Permission denied: Make sure you’re using an account with sudo privileges

Method 2: Install Steam Using APT Command Line

The command-line approach offers more control and is often faster than the GUI method. This is the preferred method for experienced Ubuntu users.

Enabling Multiverse Repository

Steam is available in Ubuntu’s multiverse repository, which contains software that may not be included in the main repositories due to licensing restrictions. Enable it first:

sudo add-apt-repository multiverse

Installing Steam Package

After enabling the multiverse repository, update your package lists and install Steam:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install steam

This command installs the Steam package along with all required dependencies automatically.

Installing Steam-Installer Alternative

If the direct Steam installation doesn’t work, try the steam-installer package:

sudo apt install steam-installer

The steam-installer is a lightweight package that downloads and installs the latest Steam client when you first run it. This method is particularly useful if you’re experiencing issues with the main Steam package.

Method 3: Install Steam from Official .deb Package

Installing directly from Steam’s official .deb package ensures you get the latest version and can be useful when repository versions are outdated.

Downloading the .deb File

Download the official Steam .deb package:

wget -O ~/steam.deb https://repo.steampowered.com/steam/archive/precise/steam_latest.deb

This command downloads the package to your home directory with the filename “steam.deb.”

Installing via dpkg Command

Install the downloaded package using dpkg:

sudo dpkg --install ~/steam.deb

If you encounter dependency issues, fix them with:

sudo apt install -f

Resolving Dependencies

Sometimes the .deb installation may have missing dependencies. The apt install -f command resolves these automatically by downloading and installing any missing packages.

Method 4: Install Steam via Snap Package

Snap packages are containerized applications that include all their dependencies. Ubuntu includes snap support by default.

Snap Installation Process

Install Steam using snap:

sudo snap install steam

The snap version of Steam is maintained by Canonical and receives regular updates automatically.

Pros and Cons of Snap Version

Advantages:

• Automatic updates
• Sandboxed environment for security
• Always gets the latest version
• Easy to install and uninstall

Disadvantages:

• Larger disk space usage due to included dependencies
• Potential performance overhead
• Some users report slower startup times

Method 5: Install Steam via Flatpak

Flatpak is another universal package format that provides sandboxed applications. While not officially supported by Valve, the community-maintained Flatpak version works well.

Setting up Flatpak

First, install Flatpak if it’s not already available:

sudo apt install flatpak
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

Installing Steam Flatpak

Install Steam from Flathub:

flatpak install flathub com.valvesoftware.Steam

Launch Steam with:

flatpak run com.valvesoftware.Steam

First Time Steam Setup on Ubuntu

Once Steam is installed, you’ll need to complete the initial setup process to start gaming.

Creating Steam Account

When you launch Steam for the first time, you’ll see the login screen. If you don’t have a Steam account:

1. Click “Create a new account”
2. Follow the registration process
3. Verify your email address
4. Complete your profile setup

If you already have an account, simply enter your credentials. Steam also supports mobile authentication for added security.

Steam Updates and Configuration

Steam automatically updates itself when launched. The first-time setup process includes:

1. Client Updates: Steam downloads the latest client files
2. System Integration: Steam configures itself for your Ubuntu system
3. Runtime Installation: Downloads Steam Linux Runtime for game compatibility

Proton Setup for Windows Games

Proton is Valve’s compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run on Linux. Enable it in Steam:

1. Go to Steam → Settings → Steam Play
2. Check “Enable Steam Play for supported titles”
3. Check “Enable Steam Play for all other titles”
4. Select the latest Proton version from the dropdown menu

This enables thousands of Windows games to run on your Ubuntu system.

Optimizing Steam Performance on Ubuntu

Getting the best gaming performance requires some additional configuration beyond the basic installation.

Graphics Driver Optimization

For NVIDIA Users:

Install the latest drivers and 32-bit support:

sudo apt install nvidia-driver-530 libnvidia-gl-530:i386

For AMD Users:

Install Mesa drivers and Vulkan support:

sudo apt install mesa-vulkan-drivers mesa-vulkan-drivers:i386

Audio Configuration

Ensure proper audio setup for gaming:

sudo apt install pulseaudio pulseaudio:i386

Some games may require additional audio libraries:

sudo apt install libasound2-dev:i386

Storage Management

Gaming requires significant storage space. Consider:

• Moving your Steam library to a separate partition or drive
• Using symbolic links to manage multiple game locations
• Regular cleanup of shader caches and old game files

Steam allows you to create multiple library folders in different locations through Settings → Downloads → Steam Library Folders.

Common Installation Issues and Solutions

Even with careful following of instructions, you might encounter some issues. Here are the most common problems and their solutions.

Missing Dependencies

Problem: “Package has unmet dependencies” error

Solution:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -f
sudo apt --fix-broken install

Graphics Driver Problems

Problem: Games crash or have poor performance

Solution:

• Verify driver installation: nvidia-smi for NVIDIA or glxinfo | grep renderer for others
• Install 32-bit graphics libraries: sudo apt install libnvidia-gl-530:i386
• Restart your system after driver installation

Network and Firewall Issues

Problem: Steam won’t connect or download games slowly

Solution:

• Check firewall settings: sudo ufw status
• Allow Steam through firewall: sudo ufw allow steam
• Change download region in Steam settings for better speeds

Steam Gaming on Ubuntu: What You Need to Know

Understanding how gaming works on Ubuntu helps set proper expectations and optimize your experience.

Native Linux Games vs. Proton

Native Linux Games:

• Run directly without compatibility layers
• Generally offer better performance
• Include popular titles like Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, and Civilization VI

Proton Games:

• Windows games running through compatibility layer
• Performance varies but is often excellent
• Includes most AAA titles and indie games

Game Compatibility Checking

Before purchasing games, check compatibility:

• Visit ProtonDB.com for community compatibility reports
• Look for the Steam Deck “Verified” badge (indicates excellent Linux compatibility)
• Check Steam’s Linux icon on game store pages

Performance Expectations

Gaming performance on Ubuntu is generally excellent:

• Native Linux games often match or exceed Windows performance
• Proton games typically achieve 80-95% of Windows performance
• Some games may require tweaks or specific Proton versions

Uninstalling Steam from Ubuntu

If you need to remove Steam, the process varies depending on your installation method.

Complete Removal Process

APT Installation:

sudo apt remove steam
sudo apt autoremove

Snap Installation:

sudo snap remove steam

Flatpak Installation:

flatpak uninstall com.valvesoftware.Steam

Cleaning Leftover Files

Remove Steam configuration and game files (warning: this deletes all games):

rm -rf ~/.steam
rm -rf ~/.local/share/Steam

Remove only configuration (keeps games):

rm -rf ~/.steam/steam

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)