Originally posted by Krusty
Because linux has too many variations, too many custom-compiled kernels, too many open-source versions, too many of everything. There are almost as many unique versions of linux as there are people that use it. Imagine trying to code a game to run on even a fraction of it. And then if it doesn't run on person X's computer, you have to work with them through a lot of technical support to get it running, or even just say "I'm sorry it won't work on your OS".
Say what you will about Windows, it's usually pretty consistent from computer to computer.
I hear ya, but aren't you just a bit too pessimistic?
I remember playing "Castle Wolfenstein" on linux some years back (with better framerates, might I add). That game didn't have me jump through hoops to get it working. I wasn't, and I'm surely still not, any linux expert in any regard, but it was real easy. No special requirements except the normal "kernel-so-and-so, xfree-xx, and openGL accelerated vid drivers".
It is possible that many enthusiasts have setups that would choke on a given game, but those guys know what they're doing and aren't expected to complain loudly when a game doesn't work on their frankenstein. Most gameplaying linux users would go with a "mainstream" and popular distro, and those are pretty streamlined and predictable. Heck, linux is easier to keep updated than windows; most distros update automatically if you don't choose otherwise. Even applications, libraries and vid drivers are updated, that's even better than OSX(thinking of apps).
I'd go for AH on a mac too. And the mac world makes the "consistent" windows world look like complete chaos. OSX has to be the easiest platform to support.
But then again windows wins by default because everyone's got it, and that's that.
The mechanics are easy to understand, but it's hard not to dream.
