I primarily use my pc for gaming, and want to avoid upgrading to Windows 11. Beginning the journey of looking into alternatives.
I am ignorant, trying to be less so. I have a hard time understanding what exactly makes a game not work just because of OS.


Does Steam ever deliver Linux-native builds instead of running games through Proton?
https://store.steampowered.com/search/?os=linux
Yes, I’ve run several games native. ProtonDB will indicate if it runs natively (though some people will report using proton on natively supported games out of habit)
EDIT: some games are supported natively, but should use proton for mods. For example, Mount and Blade Warband runs just fine without proton, but if using mods it should be run with proton. This will also be indicated on ProtonDB in my experience
When you see the Windows and Apple icons on a game, that indicates native Windows and MacOS support. The Steam logo is native SteamOS/Linux. You’ll also see a “SteamOS/Linux” section on the system requirements.