New Linux-based OS Kazeta takes inspiration from 90s game consoles

Alesh Slovak, the developer behind the popular HTPC gaming distribution ChimeraOS (a SteamOS-like operating system), has just unveiled a new project called Kazeta. It's a new, lightweight Linux-based operating system designed to replicate the simplicity of a classic games console by using SD cards as physical game cartridges.

Brought to our attention by GamingOnLinux, Kazeta was designed to be as simple as possible. Users manually load a single DRM-free game from a source like GOG or itch.io onto an SD card, which then acts as a game cartridge. Then, you insert the card into your PC and boot it up. Lastly, the OS launches you directly into the game, with no launchers, online accounts, or internet connection required. Game saves are written to the PC's internal storage, keeping the “cartridge” itself clean. If you boot without a card inserted, you're greeted with a 90s-style console BIOS menu.

 

Image credit: Kazeta

According to the developer, the project was born out of a desire to combat the growing complexity of digital storefronts and to help with the long-term preservation of games through DRM-free media. It's a direct response to the cloud-dependent, always-online nature of modern gaming, offering a completely offline, plug-and-play experience.

As you might expect from a new and ambitious project, there are some limitations in its current state. The OS does not yet support Bluetooth controllers, dual-booting, or hybrid graphics setups, and the process of creating the game cartridges is entirely manual for now. However, the developer has noted that features like Bluetooth support are planned for future iterations. Below you can find the system requirements for Kazeta:

REQUIREMENTS

• 4 GB or more RAM
• 32 GB or larger internal storage device
• AMD Radeon RX 400 series or newer GPU required (Strongly recommended for the best experience)
• NVIDIA GTX 1600 series or newer GPU required
• Intel GPUs released since 2017 may work, but have poor game compatibility
• A single connected TV or monitor
• Virtual machines are not supported
• A keyboard is usually required to select the boot disk and start the installer
• Secure boot must be disabled
• Intel RST (Rapid Storage Technology) must be disabled
• Legacy/bios is not supported

SUPPORTED HARDWARE/CONTROLLERS

• Geekom A5 2025 Edition Mini PC
• 8Bitdo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller connected wirelessly via the included dongle or wired

The operating system is now available for download, along with complete installation instructions on the project's GitHub page.

KitGuru says: Have you ever considered changing your system to a Linux-based OS? Do you think Kazeta would motivate you to do so?

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