The long wait for a proper Linux experience on GOG is finally coming to an end. GOG has officially declared the open source platform its next big target and is actively hiring to build a native client. This move marks a massive shift for the digital store which has historically focused only on Windows and macOS.
For years, Linux gamers had to rely on third party tools to access their DRM free libraries. That era seems to be closing as the company prepares to bring GOG Galaxy directly to the Linux community.
Hiring Push Confirms Native Linux Client Plans
The confirmation comes directly from a new job listing that has sparked excitement across the PC gaming world. GOG is currently seeking a Senior Engineer to lead this specific project. The job description is not subtle about the company’s intentions.
It explicitly states that while they currently serve Windows and Mac users, Linux is viewed as “the next major frontier” for their ecosystem. This is the first concrete evidence that an official app is in the pipeline.
The chosen engineer will not just be porting code. They are tasked with shaping the architecture of GOG Galaxy with Linux in mind from the very first day. This suggests a serious commitment rather than a quick afterthought.
Key responsibilities listed in the role include:
- Designing development standards specifically for the Linux environment.
- Working with a large and complex C++ codebase.
- Ensuring the ecosystem hub functions smoothly on the open source OS.
This development is significant because GOG Galaxy is more than just a downloader. It acts as a hub for connecting libraries across different platforms. Bringing this full feature set to Linux natively solves a major pain point for users who prioritize software ownership.
Why the Store is Finally Embracing Open Source
The timing of this decision is not accidental. The gaming market has changed drastically over the last few years. The massive success of handhelds like the Steam Deck has proven that Linux is a viable gaming powerhouse.
Valve showed the world that gamers are willing to leave Windows if the experience is smooth. GOG clearly sees that ignoring this growing market is no longer an option.
There is also a significant internal shift happening at the company. Recent reports indicate that the original co-founder of GOG has bought the store back from CD Projekt Red. This change in ownership in early 2026 has brought a new strategy.
The new leadership aims to carve out a specific niche to survive under Steam’s shadow. Catering to the die hard Linux crowd is a smart strategic move to build loyalty. Linux users are known for being passionate customers who support developers that support them.
The “Catch 22” of Linux gaming is finally breaking. In the past, developers avoided the OS because the user base was small. Gamers avoided the OS because there were no games. Tools like Proton and the rise of native ports have shattered this barrier, making it safe for GOG to invest.
Ending the Reliance on Community Workarounds
Until now, the Linux community has done the heavy lifting for GOG. Because there was no official client, community developers created their own fantastic alternatives.
Launchers like Heroic Games Launcher, Minigalaxy, and Lutris have filled the void. These open source projects allowed users to download and play their GOG purchases. However, they often come with limitations.
Here is how an official client compares to current community options:
| Feature | Community Launchers (Heroic/Lutris) | Official GOG Galaxy (Planned) |
|---|---|---|
| Game Installation | Supported | Native Support |
| Cloud Saves | Hit or Miss | Fully Integrated |
| Multi-Platform Chat | Limited | Native Support |
| Official Support | None (Community based) | Direct Customer Service |
| Updates | Dependent on volunteers | Automatic & Immediate |
While community tools are excellent, an official client brings stability. Users will no longer have to worry if a store update will break their launcher. It also signals to game developers that they should test their builds on Linux before publishing to the store.
This move validates the hard work of the open source community. It shows that their persistence in using the store despite the hurdles has finally paid off.
What This Means for DRM Free Gaming Future
GOG has always stood out for its stance against Digital Rights Management (DRM). You buy the game, and you own it forever without needing an internet connection to play.
This philosophy aligns perfectly with the Linux ethos. Linux users value control, privacy, and ownership over their software more than any other group. The marriage between a DRM free store and an open source operating system is logical.
However, the road ahead does have technical challenges. The job listing mentions a “complex C++ codebase” that needs to be adapted. GOG Galaxy has been running on Windows for a long time. Untangling that code to work on Linux will take time and expertise.
We likely won’t see the full release next week, but the wheels are officially in motion. The company is looking to hire the right talent to ensure the foundation is solid. This indicates they want a quality launch rather than a buggy port.
This announcement also puts pressure on other stores. With Steam and now GOG fully on board, other launchers like the Epic Games Store look increasingly behind the times regarding Linux support.
The gaming industry is slowly waking up to a reality where Windows is not the only player in town. GOG entering this space officially cements Linux as a top tier platform for PC gaming.
The days of hoping and waiting are over. GOG is building it. The next frontier is finally here, and it is open source.
If you are a Linux gamer, this is the news you have been waiting for. It is a victory for consumer choice and software freedom. The native client will likely undergo beta testing later this year once the engineering team is in place.
