PC gaming is diverse largely due to the range of software and hardware available for the platform. While things operate fundamentally the same way, there's a lot of small things to account for. One of those is the user's operating system, which greatly affects which games are available to play. Valve has long heralded Linux OS, and it could see some big improvements soon thanks to a partnership with Nvidia.
As reported by The Verge, Nvidia has announced that it's bringing DLSS to Linux operating systems, which will allow RTX users on the OS to take advantage of DLSS – Deep Learning Super Sampling – to improve a game's performance and graphics quality. The support will come by way of Steam Proton, software that allows Windows games to work with Linux. If successful, gamers will see a significant change in how their games run.
Essentially, DLSS runs a game at a lower resolution, like 1080p, then upscales the image to make it look sharper without significantly impacting PC performance. It's a big change for any game, allowing developers to make experiences that are far more stable where performance is concerned. That will come with obvious advantages for games using DLSS tech through Steam Proton.
Interestingly, Valve is working on a Steam handheld console, or is at least rumored to be. The device, which is said to be Linux powered, would be similar to the Switch. Performance and battery life have been a major concern for fans already, despite that Valve hasn't confirmed anything about it yet. DLSS tech could help the system's library smoothly, though, making games looks sharper than they would have otherwise.
The connection to the Steam handheld is the most obvious reason for a partnership at this specific point in time. A few weeks ago, Gabe Newell teased Steam coming to new platforms, and a handheld device would certainly fit the bill. With DLSS garnering a positive reputation online, it could be featured as a major marketing point for Valve.
Unfortunately, it isn't clear when DLSS support will be coming to Linux, and there are some indicators that the games will be limited to Proton titles, rather than native Linux ports. That hasn't been confirmed, however, so it will depend on how Nvidia and Valve decide to proceed. Linux hasn't had the biggest impact on operating systems out there, but this should still be a great feature for those that use it.
Source: The Verge