Why Aren't More Linux Users Gamers?

tops writes "MadPenguin.org wonders why more Linux users aren't gamers and attempts to answer that question. The article suggests, 'As far as I'm concerned, it all comes down to a choice. Expect the gaming industry to follow the Linux doctrine or instead, build up a viable, cross platform gaming market that includes us, the Linux users.' The article urges publishers to consider Linux users as a viable market, and requests that game developers target Linux as a platform during the pre-production phase." What do you think are the most important obstacles barring the big game publishers from reaching out to the Linux market more than they already do?

Comments

is really simple

[Orig_Club_Soda]

User installed base and social demographics. Developing for Linux users is not profitable. Especially since those people who are for open source seem to be more apt to pirate media and and software. Just look at the vocal majority on Slashdot. They dont want pay for media, will openly break DRM. They don't respect private property. Who in their right mind would develop a product who's profit model is based on unit sales for a community of thieves!?

Simple...

[Joce640k]

Because there's a zillion different Linux distributions and every single one of them would need a different binary.

Not gonna happen...

Rolling your own.

[chaz373]

I found this article to be amusing because it challenges a belief that I had about linux users; that being their ability to provide for themselves. For all this talk all about "open" and collaborative work, you'd imagine there'd be a huge community for home brewed games and entertainment titles. All of my "nix" friends boast about their "freedom" and lack of "closed systems" and constantly deride my choice of OS (OSX), but it seems their self proclaimed reliance and independence has also given them a dearth of gaming titles. My advice: roll your own and quit bitching!