As RAM prices skyrocket and Windows 11 flounders, Linux gains native NVIDIA GeForce NOW support — turning the cloud into a sanctuary for priced-out gamers

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Linux gamers are getting a better way to play major games! NVIDIA is developing a dedicated app for Linux that will allow users to stream popular titles directly, instead of having to use a web browser.

People with Amazon Fire TV Stick will soon be able to use the NVIDIA GeForce NOW game streaming service directly through a dedicated app. GeForce NOW is already available on many devices, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, iPhones, Android phones, VR headsets, and certain smart TVs.

At CES 2026, NVIDIA unveiled several new applications and announced that its GeForce RTX 5080-powered servers are now available worldwide for Ultimate members. These servers enable incredibly smooth streaming, supporting up to 5K resolution at 120 frames per second, or 1080p resolution at an even faster 360 frames per second.

GeForce NOW Ultimate subscribers will get even better performance with access to new servers equipped with RTX 5080-class graphics cards, plus features like DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation and a cinematic streaming mode for a stunning visual experience.

To get the best experience with all the bells and whistles, you’ll need to play supported titles.

NVIDIA GeForce NOW already works well on devices like the Linux Steam Deck through its dedicated apps. Now, even more Linux users will have access to a native app experience.

The GeForce NOW app now works with Ubuntu 24.04 and newer versions. It’s currently in beta testing and should be officially released later this year.

NVIDIA says its GeForce NOW app will launch on Amazon Fire TV Sticks “early this year.” It will initially be available for the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus (2nd Generation) and Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Generation).

The year of Linux (for real maybe?)

As a researcher following Linux for years, I’ve seen the running joke about ‘this being the year of Linux’ countless times – it’s become pretty predictable. However, I think 2026 could genuinely be a turning point for the platform, and it might finally live up to the hype.

Around 90% of Windows games can now be played on Linux through various methods. When you include cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, the difference between gaming on Windows and Linux becomes even less noticeable. While streamed games aren’t exactly the same as games running directly on the system, improvements in technology are constantly closing that gap.

Bazzite is a Linux operating system designed for gamers, and it’s become increasingly popular now that Windows 10 is no longer supported.

Many popular games, like Call of Duty, Apex Legends, Battlefield 6, Rainbow Six Siege, and Valorant, don’t currently work on Linux. This is largely due to the anti-cheat software they use, which isn’t compatible with the Linux operating system, and it’s unlikely these games will be playable on Linux in the near future.

If you enjoy playing the almost 90% of Windows games that now work on Linux, then Linux starts to look like a really good choice.

Game streaming is likely to become even more popular this year on various platforms. Rising RAM prices, driven by AI development, are making it expensive to buy new gaming devices or upgrade current ones.

Cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming allow you to play games without needing a powerful computer or console. Plus, you can play from almost anywhere you have a good internet connection.

Our Managing Editor, Richard Devine, explained how the takeover of cloud gaming is inevitable.

Streaming games from the cloud can make older computers and devices play newer titles, expand what your system can do, and even let you play games anywhere. NVIDIA GeForce NOW is also planning to offer a great experience for users on Linux and Fire TV Sticks soon.

How is a native NVIDIA GeForce NOW app better than using the service through a web browser?

The GeForce NOW apps you download and install offer more features and better image quality than using the service in a web browser. They also let you play games at higher resolutions. For the best possible experience, use a dedicated GeForce NOW app.

Which Amazon Fire TV sticks will support NVIDIA GeForce NOW?

The NVIDIA GeForce NOW app is launching first on the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus (2nd Gen) and Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen). NVIDIA says more Fire TV devices will be supported later, but hasn’t announced which models yet.

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2026-01-07 15:10