Heroic Games Launcher as a Linux alternative to Xbox App
Updated
Our verdict
Heroic Games Launcher is a solid replacement for the Xbox App's library management and launch functions, but only if you own your games on Epic or GOG. It handles Proton integration well, letting you run Windows titles on Linux. However, it does not support the Microsoft Store or Xbox Live services. If your library is tied to Xbox Game Pass or exclusive Microsoft titles, this tool will not work. For users with Epic or GOG libraries who want a clean, open-source launcher on Linux, it is a strong option.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2.22.4
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Manages game libraries from multiple digital stores
- Downloads, installs, and updates game files
- Launches games with custom configurations
- Supports multiple user profiles
What is different
- No support for Microsoft Store or Xbox Live accounts
- Lacks native cloud gaming access (Xbox Cloud Gaming)
- Does not sync achievements or profile data with Xbox servers
- Focuses on Epic, GOG, and Steam rather than Xbox-specific ecosystem
Opening your Xbox App files
Heroic Games Launcher does not directly open or export files created by the Xbox App, as they use different directory structures and metadata formats. You cannot simply copy an Xbox installation folder and have Heroic recognize it. However, if you have Steam or Epic games installed via their respective native clients, Heroic can often detect existing installations if the paths are correctly configured. For pure Xbox App installs, you would need to re-download the games through supported stores.
Switching from Xbox App to Heroic Games Launcher, step by step
- Identify which of your Xbox games are also available on Epic, GOG, or Steam
- Install Heroic Games Launcher via your package manager or Flatpak
- Log in to your Epic, GOG, or Steam accounts within Heroic
- Locate your existing game installations and configure Heroic to point to those directories
- Re-download any games that are not available on supported platforms
- Test launching a few games to verify Proton compatibility
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
Can I use Heroic Games Launcher to play Xbox Game Pass games?
No. Heroic does not support the Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Pass subscription. It only works with games you own on Epic, GOG, or Steam.
Will my Xbox achievements carry over to Heroic?
No. Heroic does not connect to Xbox Live, so achievements and profile data are not synced. You lose access to those features when switching from the Xbox App.
Does Heroic support all Windows games?
It supports Windows games via Proton, but compatibility varies. Some games work perfectly, others have issues. Check ProtonDB for specific game compatibility before migrating.
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