The Case Against Freezing: Why THE FINALS on Linux Might Not Be Worth the Chill
As a dedicated Linux gamer, I’ve always been on the lookout for the latest and greatest games that run smoothly on our beloved open-source platform. When news broke that THE FINALS was finally available on Linux and Steam Deck, I was ecstatic. However, my excitement quickly turned to frustration as I encountered freezing and crashing issues that plagued my gaming experience.
The Initial Hype
THE FINALS had been highly anticipated by the Linux gaming community, with many players eagerly awaiting the chance to dive into this popular title on their preferred operating system. As I booted up the game for the first time, I was met with stunning visuals and immersive gameplay that promised hours of entertainment.
The Harsh Reality
Unfortunately, the reality of playing THE FINALS on Linux was far from the seamless experience I had hoped for. The game would often freeze at critical moments, disrupting the flow of gameplay and causing unnecessary frustration. These unexpected crashes could occur at any time, whether I was navigating the menu or in the midst of an intense match.
Uncovering the Issues
Upon delving deeper into the root causes of these freezing issues, I discovered that certain Linux systems were more prone to experiencing these disruptions. One common culprit was the vm.max_map_count setting, which, if not properly configured, could lead to frequent crashes. Adjusting this setting provided a temporary solution, but the need to repeat the process with each reboot was a cumbersome task.
The AVX-512 Conundrum
Another roadblock in my quest for a smooth gaming experience was the compatibility of THE FINALS with CPUs that supported AVX-512 instructions. This hardware feature, while beneficial in many scenarios, posed a challenge for the game, resulting in crashes for some players. The workaround of adding “clearcpuid=304” to the kernel boot arguments was a complex solution that required technical know-how and manual intervention.
Seeking Stability
In my pursuit of stability and uninterrupted gameplay, I explored alternative options such as Proton Hotfix and compatibility tweaks. While these measures offered some relief, the underlying issues persisted, casting a shadow of doubt on the viability of running THE FINALS on Linux.
The Verdict
After countless hours of troubleshooting and experimentation, it became evident that the freezing and crashing issues with THE FINALS on Linux were more than just minor inconveniences. The inherent challenges posed by the game’s compatibility with certain Linux configurations raised questions about the feasibility of a seamless gaming experience.
Moving Forward
As I reflect on my journey with THE FINALS on Linux, I am reminded of the importance of robust optimization and thorough testing in ensuring a smooth gaming experience for all players. While the allure of playing popular titles on Linux is undeniable, the reality of technical hurdles must not be overlooked.
Embracing the Challenge
Despite the setbacks faced in my gaming endeavors, I remain optimistic about the future of Linux gaming and the strides being made to enhance compatibility and performance. As we navigate the complexities of gaming on open-source platforms, each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth and innovation.
