Rise of the Merchants launches with native Linux and Steam Deck support

Black Duke Games has officially released Rise of the Merchants, a medieval city-building and trade simulation game. The title is available now on Steam and the Humble Store, offering native support for Linux and Windows platforms.

The gameplay focuses on managing a settlement through trade, town expansion, and political maneuvering. Players must navigate risks such as banditry and rival traders while managing individual settler traits and skills to grow their economic empire.

Gameplay mechanics and platform availability

• Platform Support: The game features native Linux support and is explicitly targeted for the Steam Deck hardware platform.
• Simulation Systems: Includes a complex settler system where individual NPCs possess unique skills, traits, and needs that impact town management.
• Multiplayer Elements: Supports both NPC-based trading and real-player interactions, including optional PvP mechanics involving sabotage and political plots.
• Economic Loop: Features a risk-based trade route system where environmental factors like terrain and bandits can impact the success of goods transport.

Why it matters

The inclusion of native Linux support and Steam Deck targeting contributes to the growing library of non-Proton dependent titles available for handheld Linux gaming. While specific Steam Deck verification ratings have not yet been announced, the developer's commitment to Linux platforms provides more direct options for the ecosystem.