Updated by Linda on Jul 20, 2023
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Linux is a series of open-source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991, by Linus Torvalds. Some of the most popular Linux distributions include Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu. Linux is widely favored by programmers. The following are the main reasons why Linux stands out:

  • Multi-User: Linux is a multiuser system, allowing multiple users to access system resources such as memory/RAM/application programs simultaneously.
  • Security: Linux offers user security through features like password protection and controlled access to specific files, along with data encryption.
  • Portable: Portability refers to software functioning consistently across various hardware platforms. The Linux kernel and application programs can be installed on any type of hardware.
  • Open Source: Linux source code is freely accessible and is developed through community-based projects. Multiple teams collaborate to improve the capabilities of the Linux operating system, resulting in continuous evolution.

However, one downside of Linux is its lack of compatibility with Windows-exclusive software. For instance, you cannot play Windows PC games on a Linux computer. Thankfully, numerous tools enable users to run Windows PC games on other operating systems like Linux and macOS.

Play Windows Games on Linux - using tools like OS2Go

In this article, we will introduce a third-party utility called OS2Go Tool, which enables users to play Windows games and even run Windows systems on Linux computers. OS2Go functions by creating a portable USB drive using a Windows computer. After its creation, users can carry this USB drive around and use it on any computer. All data and programs, including PC games, stored on the system drive will be accessible on the target computer.

Now download the OS2Go tool, and follow our guide to creating a portable Windows USB drive.

How to Create a Portable Windows USB Drive

Items You Will Need:

    • A spacious USB drive. (Larger than the used space on your system drive)
    • A bootable Windows computer.
    • Ensure that the game you wish to play is installed on the system drive of your prepared Windows computer.

Step 1. Install OS2Go on your Windows computer, which will show you the used space on your system drive. Insert a USB drive with a capacity larger than the used space on the system drive. Select the target USB drive and click Next to proceed.

how to use os2go step 1

Step 2. OS2Go will warn you that the following action will erase all data on your drive. Make sure you've backed up all important data. Click Continue to proceed.

how to use os2go step 2

Step 3. Adjust disk layout. The default disk layout on the target drive will be identical to the source drive. You can also edit the layout to suit your requirements. Check the option provided if you're using a Solid State Drive as the Windows boot drive. Then, click Proceed.

how to use os2go step 3

Step 4. OS2Go will then begin creating the portable USB drive. This process may take some time, depending on your operating system and network conditions. Once the progress reaches 100%, the USB drive should be bootable.

how to use os2go step 4

Step 5. Insert the portable Windows USB and restart your computer. Press the necessary key (F2, DEL, F10, etc.) to access the BIOS. Select to boot from the USB drive.

注意: 请确保便携式USB驱动器和目标计算机的启动模式(UEFI或Legacy)相同,否则可能无法启动。

Now you can play Windows games on your Linux computer.

Play Steam Games on Linux Computer with Steam Play

As one of the largest gaming distribution platforms, Steam doesn't ignore Linux users. It has developed a fork of WINE called Steam Play. With Steam Play, Linux users can play games that are available for Windows only. Here's how to get it working.

Play Steam games on Linux

Step 1. Install Steam on your Linux computer and log in with your account.

Step 2. Launch the Steam client. In the top left corner, click on Steam and then select Settings.

Step 3. Enable Steam Play Beta. On the left panel, locate the Steam Play option, click it, and check the relevant boxes.

    • Enable Steam Play for supported titles (You can play the whitelisted Windows-only games)
    • Enable Steam Play for all titles (You can try to play all Windows-only games)

Step 4. Save your changes and click "OK" to confirm.

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Windows 11 To Go | How to Create a Windows 11 Portable USB Drive

With the OS2Go tool now fully compatible with the Windows 11 operating system, creating a bootable USB drive for Windows 11 is made easy and efficient.

Create Windows 11 Portable USB

Sum Up

For those who wish to play Windows-exclusive games on Linux PCs, creating a portable USB drive with a Windows system and pre-installed games is the most cost-effective option. We highly recommend using the tool OS2Go for this purpose. If your goal is to play Steam games on Linux, you may explore Steam Play instead.