“Is Linux good enough for the Desktop?”
“I’m not sure really. I know that the installs have gotten a lot
better, but lets not fall into that game totally, the masses don’t
install their OSes, they get them preinstalled at the dealerships
(or the manufactures). And while I never had a problem with the
installs personally (well, trying to get Slackware via 20 floppy
disks was amusing on my old dilapidated 386/SX laptop a while
back), I’m glad to see they have improved so that more journalist
can install Linux and not say that it’s too hard to play with. In
any event, people can now get Linux on their systems pretty
easily….”
“The issue is, how’s the desktop doing. Well, I think ‘the
desktop’ is made up of more than just those fun little windows we
like to dress up with themes. Instead, I look at it as the total
functionality of the needs of the users and the ease at which those
needs are fulfilled. With those guidelines, we can look at
computer games to gain some understanding. Both Quake 3 Arena and
Unreal Tournament are having Linux versions (though according to
Tim Sweeney (at least I we hope this is the real Tim!) we will have
to download binaries off the net instead of having the game on CD
for Linux). Other games are also being ported by our good friends
at Lokisoft. All in all, it’s looking like those of the Linux
community whom were worried about having games on the OS have
little to fear at this point. At least if people actually put their
money down and support Linux in that facet.”