February 01, 2024

How can I play Valorant on Linux? A guide for Linux users in 2024

While most people use Windows on their computers nowadays, especially gamers, Linux stands as a Unix-like alternative. Built upon the principles of free and open-source software development, Linux offers its users a fully customizable operating system, boosting your freedom to do anything you need using the Linux Kernel. However, for those who are a part of the gaming world, more specifically Valorant players, they will find that on a Linux device, this is no longer possible unless you know a couple of special tricks. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how you can play Valorant on a computer with Linux in 2024.

Does Valorant run on Linux?

Valorant, Riot’s first-person shooter, doesn't offer official support for Linux OS or virtual machines (VMs). However, the gaming community has found a couple of workarounds, showing that where there's a will, there's a way. Among the solutions, the creation of a dual-boot system or the establishment of a dedicated server might be the right strategies for Linux users looking to join the fray in Valorant.

How to run Valorant on Linux

Why is Valorant not available on Linux?

The reason why Valorant is not available on Linux is because the overwhelming majority of gamers use Windows as their operating system. With a mere 2% of computers using Linux, the business case for Riot Games to invest in Linux compatibility appears weak. Consequently, the official version of Valorant remains tailored to the Windows OS.

How to make Valorant work on Linux

  • Creating a Dual-Boot System
  • This is the best method if you can add a partition to your disks where you can have Windows installed.
  • Download the latest Ubuntu 20.04 ISO from Ubuntu.
  • Use Balana Etcher from Balena to burn the ISO image to a USB flash drive.
  • Restart the computer and access the boot menu (F12 or F8).
  • Choose the appropriate option for Legacy BIOS or UEFI installations.
  • Select the "Erase disk and install Ubuntu" option during installation.
  • Select a drive without any Windows OS installed.
  • Complete the installation, remove the flash drive, and reboot.
  • Use the GRUB Boot Loader to select either Windows or Linux on future boots.
  • Load Windows to play Valorant and Linux for everything else.

Open up a Dedicated Server

  • If you have another PC running Windows, download NoMachine on both systems.
  • Establish access from your Linux device to the Windows PC using NoMachine.
  • Launch Valorant through your Linux operating system, using the power of a dedicated server.
Playing Valorant on Linux

Sadly, the only viable route to running Valorant on Linux involves having access to Windows on your Linux system. Riot Games, along with the Vanguard anti-cheat system, do not support Linux. This means you’ll have a hard time boosting the quality of your graphics and gameplay when using an alternative to Windows.

Notably, Valorant is not on GeForce NOW and other cloud gaming services, given its usage of a Rootkit.

What are the Minimum Requirements to run Valorant?

To run Valorant within the Linux OS, make sure your system meets the following minimum specifications:

  • 4th-generation Core i3 processor or above
  • Minimum 8 gigabytes of RAM
  • Graphics card equivalent to the Nvidia Geforce GT 730 or higher
  • Dedicated Video RAM of 2 gigabytes or more
  • 25 to 30 gigabytes of free space

If your PC’s release date is post-2018, it likely has the required hardware to seamlessly run Valorant within the Linux OS. As the Linux community continues to innovate and explore workarounds to this issue, the quest to unlock Valorant's potential on Linux continues every day. The journey might be filled with challenges, but don’t lose hope for the user, because when it comes to Linux gaming enthusiasts, the thrill is in the battle.

 

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