Proton is a groundbreaking compatibility layer developed by Valve Corporation that allows Linux users to play Windows-only games on their systems. This article aims to provide an informative and instructional guide on how to use Proton effectively in the Linux environment. By understanding the capabilities of Proton and its importance in the Linux gaming community, users can explore a wide range of gaming options without having to switch to a different operating system.

Proton is a modified version of Wine, an open-source compatibility layer that enables Windows applications to run on Linux. However, Proton is specifically optimized for gaming, making it a valuable tool for Linux gamers. It integrates seamlessly with the Steam client, making it easy to install and play Windows games directly from the Steam library.

Examples:

1. Installing Proton: Open the Steam client, go to the Steam menu, select Settings, and navigate to the Steam Play tab. Check the box that says "Enable Steam Play for supported titles" and select the desired version of Proton from the dropdown menu. Click OK to save the changes.

2. Running Windows games with Proton: Search for a Windows-only game in the Steam store and click on the "Play" button. Steam will automatically launch the game using Proton, and the game should start running as if it were on a Windows system.

3. Customizing Proton settings: For advanced users, Proton allows for customization of its settings. Navigate to the game's properties in the Steam library, click on "Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool," and select the desired version of Proton or even a custom Proton build.