Valve has released Proton 11, the latest iteration of its compatibility layer that enables Windows games to run on Linux-based systems such as the Steam Deck and desktop PCs. This update, which is rebased on Wine 11, is now available to users through Steam's compatibility settings.
Proton 11, previously available in beta, introduces a range of fixes and improvements. Notably, it addresses issues with KDE window maximization and resolves problems with video playback in several games. The update also includes fixes for various EA games that were previously unplayable due to an EA Desktop update, and ensures the Steam Overlay functions correctly with these titles.
Newly Playable Titles
A significant number of games are now playable or have seen improved compatibility with Proton 11. Among the newly playable titles are "Unknown Faces," "Gothic 1 Classic," "X-Plane 12," "Breath of Fire IV," and "Deadly Premonition." Previously compatible with Proton Experimental, titles like "Universe Generator: The Golden Sword," "DCS World Steam Edition," and the original "Resident Evil" and "Resident Evil 2" are now fully supported in the stable release.
Key Improvements and Fixes
Beyond expanding the list of playable games, Proton 11 includes numerous specific fixes. These range from resolving video playback issues in titles like "She Sees Red" and "Crimson Desert" to fixing voice chat problems in "Phasmophobia" for desktop players. Improved rendering for Rockstar Launcher popups and fixes for black screens in "Sea of Solitude" are also part of the update. For "HELLDIVERS 2," a crash occurring in missions with high enemy counts has been addressed.
The update also tackles issues with specific hardware and software configurations. For instance, fixes for KDE window maximization and Brighter Shores window resizing aim to improve desktop experience. Support for controller hotplugging has been improved, benefiting controllers like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C. VR support has also seen enhancements, with "No Man's Sky VR" mode becoming playable again and VR controller tracking improved in "Microsoft Flight Simulator."
Furthermore, Proton 11 updates core components, including Wine, vkd3d, dxvk, and Wine Mono, to their latest versions. This foundational update is crucial for maintaining and improving compatibility across a wide array of Windows games on Linux platforms.