Games like Half-Life on Linux
4 of the 5 modern alternatives to Half-Life (1998) run on Linux. 2 of them are free, and the cheapest paid option is Half-Life at € 8,19. One is made by independent developers.
Linux is unusually strong for classic gaming, because the open-source engine ports that keep old games alive were often written on it. Native builds are common for anything using a community engine, and most of the rest runs through Proton, which is the same technology that powers the Steam Deck.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
Entropy: Zero 2 Indie
FreeA free standalone mod of near-official quality that puts you on the Combine side of the story.
Entropy: Zero 2 runs on PC, Linux. Not available on Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Playable.
Half-Life 2
FreeThe sequel, permanently free since its twentieth anniversary, complete with both episodes.
Half-Life 2 runs on PC, Linux. Not available on Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Black Mesa
€ 19,99A stunning fan-made remake rebuilt in the Source engine.
Black Mesa runs on PC, Linux. Not available on Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Half-Life
€ 8,19The original still runs perfectly on modern PCs, now with free updates.
Half-Life runs on PC, Mac, Linux. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Untested.
Not on Linux
These alternatives to Half-Life are listed on the main page, but do not run on Linux:
All 5 games like Half-Life