Heroic Games Launcher as a Linux alternative to Lutris
Updated
Our verdict
Heroic Games Launcher can replace Lutris for users who mainly want to install and run games from Epic, GOG, and Steam on Linux. It handles automatic Proton selection, offers a built‑in store browser, and lets you set custom launch options. However, it lacks Lutris’s extensive scripting, dependency management, and support for a wide range of non‑Steam stores. It is best suited for casual gamers who prefer a single‑click experience, while power users who rely on custom runners and complex setups will find Lutris more appropriate.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2.22.4
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both are open‑source Linux game launchers
- Both support Proton/Steam compatibility layers
- Both allow custom launch options and command line overrides
- Both provide a UI for managing installed games
What is different
- Heroic does not support the full range of non‑Steam stores that Lutris does
- Heroic lacks Lutris’s advanced scripting and runner configuration
- Heroic does not manage game dependencies and libraries automatically
- Heroic does not offer as granular control over multiple Wine/Proton versions
- Heroic’s integration with system libraries and drivers is less extensive
Opening your Lutris files
Lutris stores its configuration in JSON files under ~/.config/lutris/runners and ~/.config/lutris/games. Heroic does not import these files directly; you would need to manually reinstall games through Heroic or use a third‑party script to convert Lutris entries. No official export/import tool exists at present.
Switching from Lutris to Heroic Games Launcher, step by step
- Export your Lutris game list by copying the ~/.config/lutris/games directory to a backup folder.
- For each game, note the store source and any custom launch options you use.
- Open Heroic and use the built‑in store browser to locate and install the same game from its original store.
- After installation, add any custom launch options via the game’s settings in Heroic.
- Verify the game runs; if issues arise, adjust the Proton version in Heroic’s game settings.
- Delete or archive the old Lutris configuration once you confirm all games work in Heroic.
Key features of Heroic Games Launcher
- Install Epic, GOG, and Steam games natively
- Automatic Proton/Steam compatibility layer selection
- Built‑in game store browsing
- Batch download and update management
- Custom launch options and command line overrides
- Supports multiple user profiles
- Dark mode and theme support
How to install Heroic Games Launcher on Linux
sudo zypper install heroic-games-launcherFrequently asked questions
Does Heroic support running Windows games that require a specific Wine version?
Heroic automatically selects a Proton version for each game, but it does not expose a per‑game Wine selection like Lutris. If you need a specific Wine build, Lutris remains the better choice.
Can I use Heroic to run games from other stores like Humble Bundle or itch.io?
Heroic currently supports Epic, GOG, and Steam. For other stores, you would need to install the game via Lutris or use the store’s own Linux client.
Is there a way to batch update games in Heroic?
Yes, Heroic has a batch download and update feature that lets you update multiple games at once from the UI.
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