A PC gamer has turned physical storage drives into portable game cartridges, offering a tangible way to switch between titles without navigating a digital library. This approach appeals to players who prefer the simplicity of inserting a drive to launch a specific game, bypassing the clutter of modern storefronts. The project demonstrates how simple hardware can streamline the gaming experience for those who value quick access over digital management.
Linux automation launches titles from cheap 128GB drives
The system relies on a Linux environment and uses 2.5-inch SATA SSDs as the physical media for storing game files. Jibril-sama, the creator behind the project, built the setup using drives purchased for approximately seven euros each. The hardware choice keeps the cost low while providing a standard interface that works with most desktop and laptop computers.
Automation handles the game launching process through a combination of Linux utilities and Steam protocols. When a user plugs in the SSD, a udev rule detects the device and triggers a systemd daemon. The daemon scans the drive for a specific script and executes it, which then uses the Steam URL Protocol to open the game directly. This sequence removes the need for manual intervention after the drive is connected.
The creator intends to use these cartridges for replaying older titles that do not require frequent updates. Live-service games are excluded from this workflow because their changing file structures could break the portable setup. The project highlights the potential for physical media to offer a stable, unchanging version of a game, though long-term stability across different PCs remains to be seen.
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