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Trying Linux for the First Time, and Need a Little Help
Semnae:
I'm trying Linux (Ubuntu) for the first time. I haven't used anything other than Windows before, so I'm a bit confused. I haven't been able to get a single program to work that wasn't specifically made for Linux. For example, I tried installing Burnout Paradise. I installed it using WINE, but Ubuntu doesn't seem to let installers give you the option of choosing where you want programs installed. The program appeared to be installing within C:\ProgramFiles, which unfortunately, doesn't exist in Ubuntu. Once installed, the program put an icon on the desktop, but even with WINE, the game won't actually run. I then wanted to uninstall the game since it's not working, but I can't because it's not listed under Add/Remove, and I don't know where the files are located. I tried running a search, but didn't find it. Can someone familiar with this operating system give me a little help?
Edit: I've figured out where WINE puts stuff. Turns out the program creates a hidden .wine folder. I'm not sure why they would hide it, and I don't really know how to unhide it.
Edit: I've found a good website detailing what games will work in WINE and how to make them work if there are known issues.
iindigo:
Yeah, Windows applications installed under WINE do not seamlessly work with any Linux package manager or anything like that. This is probably because it'd be difficult to do, especially with how messy Windows applications are with their different methods of storing uninstall information and scattering files across your HD.
As for why the .wine folder is hidden, it's probably to try to keep less-knowledgeable types from deleting it or otherwise screwing things up, since it's required for WINE's operation.
Also, keep in mind that not everything will work in WINE or will only half-work. For example, even though you can get it running, steam is bitchy and really frakkin' ugly. Games that have OpenGL modes will react much better than the hundreds that only run with ProprietaryX (what DirectX should be named).
Duki3003:
Linux hides folders by adding . before the name.
To unhide them is not possible as you would have to rename it and then would brake the relations etc.
But you can view them by choosing view hidden folders - there is an option if you have Dolphin file manager, and there should be for Gnome releases as well - can't remember atm.
Linux is not really Windows applications and games friendly - even with Wine you have to check what is supported, what is only partially supported etc. You can try to install DirectX to improve game handling a bit - but tbh I tried it and didn't really see any improvement.
Untill they make it more compatible we're stuck with windows, but dual boot is nice...
kyanwan:
Congrats Sem - you're going to love it. :) I'd have it on all the desktops here - but - everyone else doesn't know Linux ... and I got my ears chewed off last time I tried to switch. :(
Play with it - that's how you learn it. ( Grab a book or two. Esp. an administration book - very helpful. )
--- Quote from: duki3003 on June 23, 2009, 01:02:24 PM ---Untill they make it more compatible we're stuck with windows, but dual boot is nice...
--- End quote ---
Dual boot is not just nice, it's perfect.
You have your real desktop in Linux for everything - and you have your Windows-dual-boot for games only.
This way, you get consistent performance with your apps - and you get consistent performance with your games. Work with me for a second here:
- Do no browsing or installs with your windows, and lock down your install hardcore. You have a permanent clean install of windows for optimal game performance. Compatibility is a non-issue.
- Your Linux install is incompatible with ALL Windows bullshit, and, you have far higher security options than you have with windows. Plus, don't forget the great customization, free apps of the highest quality, and all the other eliteness you get with Linux.
fohfoh:
Ditto @ Kyanwan. I agree there.
But the same can't be said for Mac. I mean, it's almost always known that Linux has limits... people still non-stop find ways of asking stupid questions over and over. "OMFG WINAMP DOESN'T WORK ON MAC! FIX IT!~I NEEDS WATCH NSV!"
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