Steam Deck owners playing s&box now have a native Linux option, but performance varies wildly depending on the scene complexity. This beta release matters because it allows handheld users to test the game without relying on Proton compatibility layers, though the experience is currently inconsistent. Buyers should expect stable frame rates in basic environments but significant drops in visually dense areas.
Native Linux support for s&box brings inconsistent frame rates on Steam Deck
Facepunch Studios has released a Linux beta for both the s&box Editor and Client, marking the first native support for the platform. The successor to Garry's Mod is currently accessible via the project's GitHub page rather than the Steam store. The studio plans to move the release to Steam once the Linux build achieves sufficient stability for general distribution.
Performance testing on Steam Deck reveals a stark contrast between simple and complex game modes. Simple games appear to fare quite well, often hitting a steady 60 FPS during standard play. However, complex 3D games with foliage and dense geometry often see frame rates plummet into the 20s, creating a choppy experience.
The native Linux version is designed to offer a more direct hardware interface for the handheld's AMD APU. Early observations suggest that optimization efforts are still in progress, as the engine struggles with heavy graphical loads. Users can expect the performance to improve as the beta progresses and the codebase stabilizes for the final launch.
This Linux beta provides a crucial testing ground for s&box on Valve's handheld hardware. The current state highlights the need for further optimization before the game reaches a wider audience on Steam. Players interested in the title should monitor the GitHub page for updates as the studio works toward a stable release.
Source: SteamDeckHQ
