Valve has rolled out an exciting update for Linux and Steam Deck users, tackling pesky bugs and ensuring a smoother experience with Proton 8. This incremental release is designed to fine-tune the newest version of Proton, which enables Windows games on your platform.

In this latest iteration, Valve has addressed various issues, including fixes for EA app problems – a recurring challenge that requires their intervention to prevent widespread game disruptions. For those new to Steam Play and Proton, check out our beginner's guide for a comprehensive overview.

The Proton 8.0-2 update brings numerous enhancements, primarily borrowed from the recent Proton Experimental update:

• Stable gaming: Baldur's Gate 3 now launches properly in Vulkan mode, resolving the black screen issue.

• Crash-free experiences: Divinity: Original Sin: Enhanced Edition and Divinity Original Sin II: Definitive Edition no longer crash on launch. Path of Exile has also been fixed to prevent crashes.

• Memory management: Trackmania and Ubisoft Connect overlay now resolve memory leak issues, ensuring a more stable performance.

• Elden Ring compatibility: The Proton 8.0-1 improvements have been refined, making it more compatible with Elden Ring – although it still requires some finessing.

• Stable launches: Red Dead Redemption 2 and other games now start properly after switching from Proton Experimental to the stable version.

• EA Launcher workaround: A temporary fix has been implemented to prevent EA Launcher crashes on Steam Deck. Note that the on-screen keyboard may not pop up automatically while using it.

To update, simply check your Steam Downloads for the Proton 8 update and install it as you would any other app or game.

Compatibility settings

To use Proton 8, navigate to the Properties -> Compatibility menu of any game and select "Proton 8" when prompted. For Desktop Linux users, ensure that your GPU supports Vulkan 1.3 – Steam Deck does not require this.

As a heads-up, some Easy Anti-Cheat games might be affected by the Proton 8 update. If you've switched to using EAC-enabled games with Proton 8, keep an eye out for potential issues.

For the full changelog, visit [link].