For those unaware, the linux version of TF2 is still 32bit, and runs on ToGL - a DirectX to OpenGL translation layer.
A few days ago, Valve published a TF2 private branch called “x64_linux_test”: https://steamdb.info/changelist/21975149/
Then a few hours ago, Valve update TF2’s “App Config” to include references to x64 Vulkan TF2: https://steamdb.info/changelist/22010846/
Looks like it’s coming soon, in theory should bring some nice performance improvements. But “soon” in Valve Time is… who knows
Edit: the beta is live
This might have to do with the recent backash for the DMCA takedown requests and the resurgence of #savetf2. Knowing valve, we’ll probably never know.
The takedown was because of asset distribution. This is probably for a better Steam Deck experience or future proofing and they didn’t get to it yet.
It is to make the game bootable in the first place, you have to swap *.so files to launch the game as of today
At least we get to profit from steam deck becoming popular. Games wanting to support linux more to support steam deck and stuff.