Best of Steam — January 2026

1. 1
   Article

   Hacker News·21w

   I'm brave enough to say it: Linux is good now, and if you want to feel like you actually own your PC, make 2026 the year of Linux on (your) desktop

   Linux has become genuinely user-friendly for desktop use, especially for gaming. Distros like Bazzite make it easy to run games without command-line knowledge, often matching or exceeding Windows performance through Valve's Proton. Steam's Linux user base hit 3.2%, surpassing Mac. The main appeal is ownership and control—no forced AI features, bloatware, or upselling. While HDR support and some anticheat software remain issues, they're improving. Linux offers a viable alternative for users tired of Windows feeling like rented software rather than something they truly own.

   397

   62
2. 2
   Video

   Randy·20w

   I spent 3 years learning how to make a fun game

   A game developer shares their 3-year journey learning game design, from early itch.io demos to Steam releases. After struggling to create something they were proud of, they've finally developed Terra Factor, a game they consider genuinely fun. The developer reflects on the challenges of game design and invites others to wishlist their project on Steam.

   31
3. 3
   Video

   Code Monkey·17w

   The NEW HOTTEST Genre on Steam!

   Incremental games have become a profitable genre on Steam, with recent titles generating significant revenue in short timeframes. Games like Keep on Mining ($600k in 2 weeks), Dixium ($700k in 6 months), and Cast and Chill ($1.5M total) demonstrate the commercial viability of this genre. These games focus on gradual progression through upgrades, starting simple and becoming more efficient over time, evolving from the original Cookie Clicker concept.

   21

   3