NVIDIA has officially moved the native GeForce NOW app for Linux out of beta, giving Linux gamers a more polished way to stream supported PC games without relying solely on a browser. The company is also rolling out latency and performance improvements across its cloud gaming service while adding nine games to the library this week.
The Linux app continues to support Ubuntu 24.04 and newer releases. NVIDIA says months of feedback from beta testers helped it improve performance, stability, and overall polish before declaring the software ready for general use.
NVIDIA is also introducing a new Flatpak repository for the app. This should make installation easier while providing Linux users with a more straightforward way to receive future updates, although support for Ubuntu 24.04 and later suggests people running older distributions may need to look elsewhere.
GeForce NOW performs the actual rendering on NVIDIA’s remote servers, allowing Linux devices to run games that might otherwise require Windows or more capable local hardware. This also helps get around some of the compatibility problems Linux gamers continue to face, including titles that do not work properly through Proton or block Linux because of anti-cheat systems.
Of course, cloud gaming comes with its own compromises. A fast and stable internet connection remains essential, latency can vary by location, and access to a game through GeForce NOW does not replace the need to own it through a supported storefront.
NVIDIA improves DLSS Frame Generation in the cloud
Beyond the Linux release, NVIDIA says it has optimized DLSS Frame Generation for GeForce NOW. The changes are intended to reduce latency and make games feel more responsive, particularly when streaming at 60 or 120 frames per second in 1440p or 4K.
Frame Generation creates additional frames between traditionally rendered ones, which can make motion appear smoother. Reducing the latency associated with that process matters for cloud gaming because players are already dealing with the delay created by sending controls to a remote server and receiving compressed video in return.
Performance members are receiving another cloud-side adjustment aimed at CPU-intensive games. NVIDIA says server software optimizations will increase frame rates in select titles automatically, with no update or configuration required from the player.
The company is not identifying every affected game or providing detailed performance figures, so users will have to judge the improvement for themselves. Still, free performance gains are welcome for people already paying for the Performance membership tier.
NVIDIA targets Chromebook owners with GeForce NOW
NVIDIA is also promoting GeForce NOW as a way to turn Chromebooks into gaming machines after school or work. Because the service handles processing in the cloud, a Chromebook used for documents, browser tabs, and video calls can stream games without containing a dedicated NVIDIA graphics card.
GeForce NOW currently supports more than 2,000 PC games from users’ existing libraries. The service also works across Macs, Windows laptops, Microsoft Surface devices, Steam Deck, mobile hardware, and other supported devices.
Eligible buyers of new Chromebooks and Chromebook Plus models can claim one year of GeForce NOW through the Chromebook Fast Pass promotion. NVIDIA says the offer includes priority access and removes advertising, although eligibility will depend on the particular Chromebook and purchase.
The pitch makes sense for students who already own supported games and have access to a strong internet connection. It becomes less convincing when Wi-Fi is unreliable, bandwidth is limited, or the games someone wants are missing from NVIDIA’s catalog.
Nine games join GeForce NOW this week
NVIDIA is adding the following games to GeForce NOW this week:
- Car Wash Simulator
- Pax Autocratica
- Clawed
- Hell Let Loose Vietnam
- Sandustry
- Cat Mail Co
- Misery
- Monster Hunter Wilds Prologue Demo
- Pratfall
Car Wash Simulator and Pax Autocratica arrived on Steam on August 10. Clawed and Hell Let Loose Vietnam launch on Steam on August 13, while Sandustry arrives the same day through Steam and Xbox.
The native Linux release is the most interesting part of this update because it gives Linux gamers another supported option rather than treating the operating system as an afterthought. However, GeForce NOW still depends on NVIDIA continuing to secure publisher participation, maintain its servers, and deliver acceptable latency, so it should complement local Linux gaming rather than replace it.
Support independent tech journalism
NERDS.xyz is independently owned and operated. If you enjoy my coverage of Linux, AI, hardware, cybersecurity, and tech culture, consider supporting the site on Ko-fi.
Support NERDS.xyz