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VGSources / Best Graphics Optimisers / Feral GameMode

Feral GameMode

github.com

  • Free
  • Linux
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What it is

Feral GameMode is a free Linux daemon and library that allows games to request temporary optimisations to the host system or game process. Supported changes include CPU governor, I/O priority, process niceness, scheduler policy, screensaver inhibition, GPU performance mode, CPU core pinning or parking, and custom scripts. Compatible games and launchers can activate GameMode automatically; other games can be started with the gamemoderun command or a Steam launch option. GPU performance mode is supported for NVIDIA and AMD, while GPU overclocking is listed for NVIDIA. The project lists packages for Ubuntu, Debian, Solus, Arch, Gentoo, Fedora, OpenSUSE, and Mageia, with possible availability elsewhere. Configuration uses a gamemode.ini file with documented GPU, CPU, filter, supervisor-access, and script options. GameMode is maintained by Feral Interactive and uses the BSD 3-Clause License (Revised). Its build depends on Meson and systemd, and development also requires a C environment. Issues should be reported through the repository's GitHub Issues section.

Good, and not so good

  • Free Linux daemon and library
  • Supports automatic activation in compatible games
  • Offers CPU, I/O, scheduler, and GPU options
  • Packages listed for several Linux distributions
  • Hybrid GPU commands cannot integrate automatically after launch
  • GPU optimisation settings are used at the user's risk
  • Build depends on Meson and systemd

Who it suits

It suits Linux players whose games or launchers support GameMode, as well as those willing to start games with its command or a Steam launch option. It can also suit users who want to configure process or host adjustments through gamemode.ini.

GameMode offers configurable, temporary system and process adjustments for Linux games, with automatic activation where supported and manual launch options otherwise. Hybrid GPU command integration and the stated GPU-setting caution are important considerations.

Plans

  • GameModeLinux daemon and library · BSD 3-Clause LicenseFree

As github.com lists them, read 4 Oct 2026.