**Meet the Mind Behind Bazzite: An Interview with Kyle Gospodnetich**

For those who have been following the Linux gaming scene, the name Bazzite is likely familiar. But what exactly is Bazzite, and who is the mastermind behind it? We recently had the chance to sit down with Kyle Gospodnetich, the original founder of Bazzite, and delve into the world of custom Linux distributions for gaming.

Meet Kyle Gospodnetich, a seasoned game developer turned full-stack engineer with a passion for Linux and gaming. In this interview, he opens up about his journey with Bazzite, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a leading player in the Linux gaming community.

**Q: Can you introduce yourself and what you do for Bazzite?**

My name's Kyle Gospodnetich, and I'm the original founder of Bazzite. I have a background in game development and later transitioned into full-stack engineering with a specialization in eCommerce. This led me to get involved with Linux servers and DevOps. My love for Linux and gaming ultimately sparked the creation of Bazzite.

**Q: What exactly is Bazzite?**

Bazzite is a custom image built upon Fedora's Atomic offerings, designed as a turn-key gaming experience that doesn't compromise everyday use. It's an image-based system, allowing users to update or rollback whenever they like. We utilize the same technology found in Fortune 500 cloud servers running Linux, enabling containerization for software development.

**Q: Why did you start Bazzite?**

Bazzite was born out of my passion for Linux and gaming. I initially built it as a side project, and to my surprise, many people showed interest in contributing. It's been quite the journey since then, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share Bazzite with the world.

**Q: Why can't we just call it a Linux distro?**

I prefer not to label Bazzite as a traditional Linux distribution. A distro typically does more work than what we're doing. Think of us like a Docker container – we build upon existing platforms, such as Fedora, making it easier for users to access gaming features without the hassle of customizing their entire system.

**Q: Are immutable desktops the future for Linux?**

I'm biased towards thinking that immutable desktops are the future. They've already made significant inroads in the phone and server markets, and now we're bringing them to the Linux desktop. I firmly believe this shift will revolutionize how users interact with their systems.

**Q: How difficult is it to add support for new PC handhelds to Bazzite?**

Supporting new handhelds can be challenging due to various hardware-specific issues, such as sleep mode, Wi-Fi connectivity, and sound firmware. However, we've made significant strides in recent times by transitioning to kernel patches and custom drivers, making it easier to add support for new devices.

**Q: Can you walk us through your development process?**

My approach is quite unique – I play games, identify issues, and then resolve them as quickly as possible. This enables me to release updates within 30 minutes if necessary, ensuring that users have a seamless gaming experience. Our goal is to make Bazzite the go-to platform for Linux gamers.

**Q: How has your experience been with hardware vendors?**

Working with hardware vendors has been an absolute pleasure! They're usually hands-off and willing to collaborate on resolving issues or providing firmware updates. As a non-profit organization, we appreciate their support in making Bazzite a success.

**Q: What's your favorite handheld device?**

I'm particularly fond of the Legion Go 2, as it offers an excellent hardware experience. However, my Steam Deck OLED remains my top choice for grab-and-go gaming due to its exceptional battery life and stunning display.

**Q: Can you tell us about the Open Gaming Collective (OGC)?**

The OGC is a collective effort from various Linux developers who share a common goal – creating a more accessible and enjoyable gaming experience. We're thrilled to have brought this initiative to life, and it's been amazing to see the community come together in support of our mission.

**Q: What are your thoughts on the new Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and Steam Controller?**

Valve's hardware department is undoubtedly impressive! I'm excited about the upcoming releases and believe they'll revolutionize the gaming landscape. As someone who loves innovation, I'm eager to see how these products will shape the industry.

**Q: What game do you think deserves more recognition?**

I highly recommend Deadlock, an exceptional title that's often overlooked. If I had to pick a single-player game of the year, it would be Expedition 33 – it's a masterpiece!

**Q: Are there any open-source projects you'd like to give a shout-out to?**

Definitely bootcrew! They're doing fantastic work in creating immutable Linux images for various distributions. This initiative is pushing the boundaries of innovation and has the potential to reshape the future of Linux gaming.

**Q: What's your stance on anti-cheat measures for Linux/SteamOS?**

The anti-cheat problem requires a server-authoritative approach, ensuring that game developers prioritize security over convenience. I believe this will become the norm in the near future, and I'm excited to see how the industry adapts.

**Q: What advice would you give to Windows users considering Bazzite?**

My message is simple – thank you for your interest! If you're willing to learn something new, be patient, and don't hesitate to reach out for help. We're here to support you every step of the way.

**Q: Finally, pineapple on pizza – yes or no?**

As an Italian, I'm legally required to say no to pineapple, but anchovies are a different story altogether!

With that, our conversation with Kyle Gospodnetich comes to a close. We're grateful for the insights he's shared about Bazzite and its mission to revolutionize Linux gaming. Whether you're an experienced gamer or just starting your journey, we hope this interview has sparked your interest in exploring the world of Linux gaming.