Native Linux Support for LaunchBox & Big Box
Overview
A native Linux version of LaunchBox and Big Box has been a highly requested feature among the community. With the growing popularity of Linux as a gaming platform—especially with Steam Deck, gaming handhelds, and desktop Linux users—many would love to see an official version that doesn’t rely on Wine or Proton.
⚠️⚠️⚠️ This request specifically refers to developing a Linux application that runs within standard Linux desktop environments. It does not suggest creating a lightweight LaunchBox OS or a version optimized for Raspberry Pi, as Pi devices have hardware limitations that make them unsuitable for this type of application.
🖥️ Why Linux Support is Important
📈 1) The Growing Linux Gaming Market
Steam Deck’s success has significantly increased the adoption of SteamOS (Linux-based) and Linux gaming setups.
With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, more users are exploring Linux as an alternative OS.
Gaming-focused Linux distributions such as Pop!_OS, Manjaro, and Nobara are becoming more popular.
🛠️ 2) High Demand from Existing LaunchBox Users
Many Lifetime LaunchBox users who have invested in the Windows and Android versions would love to see support extended to Linux.
Some users have even expressed willingness to repurchase the software for Linux if a native version were available.
🔄 3) A Linux Application, Not a Standalone OS
A native Linux app would allow users to install LaunchBox on their preferred Linux distribution, just like on Windows. The goal would be to provide:
✅ A desktop-friendly experience for Linux gamers.
✅ Big Box mode compatibility with gaming handhelds & home theater setups.
✅ Seamless controller support for Linux gaming environments.
✅ Cross-platform cloud syncing for game libraries, metadata, and save files.
🔧 Proposed Features & Implementation
1️⃣ Linux Distributions for Compatibility
A native version of LaunchBox would aim to support:
🐧 SteamOS (Steam Deck) – Desktop Mode
🐧 Ubuntu-based distros (e.g., Pop!_OS, Linux Mint, Ubuntu)
🐧 Arch-based distros (e.g., Manjaro, EndeavourOS)
🐧 Fedora and other mainstream Linux distributions
⚠️ Note: This feature request does not propose a version optimized for Raspberry Pi or embedded systems.
2️⃣ Key Features to Include in the Linux Version
🎮 Full support for LaunchBox’s game database & metadata scraping
🎮 Big Box mode on Linux for a controller-friendly, fullscreen experience
🎮 Improved compatibility for Steam Deck (Desktop Mode) & Linux gaming handhelds
🎮 Customizable themes and controller-based navigation
🎮 Native support for Wine/Proton-installed Windows games, if possible
🚀 Why This Matters
✅ Expands LaunchBox’s reach to Linux desktop users & gaming handhelds.
✅ Provides a true cross-platform experience for users migrating from Windows.
✅ Ensures long-term viability as gaming on Linux continues to grow.
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Comments24
AstroBob
Apr 3, 2025
Hi there, thanks for the great request. We have a broader request to support LaunchBox on Linux-based devices, which would include the Steam Deck. I’m going to merge this request over there so your support will automatically be added to it.
Native Linux Support for LaunchBox & Big Box
AxelTerizaki
Apr 3, 2025
Thanks for this new feedback system.
I’m redoing my Launchbox box soon and was planning to install Linux on it because Windows is becoming a hassle to handle and clearly hostile towards its users. Linux has reached maturity when it comes to gaming mainly thanks to Valve’s efforts so I think this is a viable option.
I recognize however that given that Launchbox is developed in .NET that it’s not quite easy to port it to Linux just like that. I hope the devs will work on it though as I’d love to ditch Windows for Linux for my box needs.
dcosborne
Apr 3, 2025
About a year ago I fully switched to Linux has my main OS. Unfortunately that means I have not been able to use Launchbox. Till this point Launchbox was my go to frontend and nothing really has been a good enough alternative on Linux. So this would be huge for me and I am more than willing to pay for a lifetime license again
LaughingMan
Apr 6, 2025
I switched my main machine to Linux a year ago and haven’t looked back. I kept my gaming laptop running Windows just to keep LaunchBox and BigBox, but finally dumped Windows completely now that Linux does everything Windows can but without the bloat or privacy issues. There was no way I was going to install Windows 11. But I sorely miss LaunchBox and BigBox. I imagine it’s a pain to port, but I’d repurchase a lifetime license in a heartbeat if LB/BB came to Linux.
ChunkyLoverMark
Feb 10, 2025
It would be amazing to have a EmuDeck alternative on the Steam Deck, with syncing game saves between the different platforms. So when I’m playing Zelda it doesn’t matter what system I’m using, I can pick right up where I left off.
hush404
Feb 18, 2025
I would like to add my vote for this. As someone who has loved LaunchBox for a while and bought lifetime editions for both Win/And, I’d love to see this superb software branch out into linux OSes.
FedaykinWolf
May 20
I too have migrated to 100% Linux and Launchbox was of the best software I have ever purchased… …long story short I beg for LB in Linux
-FLYNN-
Aug 12
We really need this please!
BacklogRob
Aug 20
I’m currently dual-booting between Windows 11 and CachyOS, but with each day that passes, I have less and less reason to use Windows. Launchbox is easily becoming the only real reason, honestly. Having Launchbox on Linux would definitely allow me to full on leave Windows at this point.
Fool's License
Apr 3, 2025
I will fully switch when win 10 support ends, there are also rumours about steam os for desktop coming out. This might lead to a lot more linux users, would be awesome to not have to look for alternatives to launchbox.