Table of Contents
Firestorm Viewer for Linux
The Firestorm Viewer โ a popular third-party viewer for Second Life and OpenSim โ offers a dedicated Linux version that runs smoothly on most major distributions.
๐ง Key Features
- 64-bit Linux build available as `.tar.xz` archive
- Compatible with Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, and other mainstream distros
- Includes nearly all features from the Windows version
- Supports advanced rendering, WindLight environments, and OpenSim grids
๐ง Setup Notes
- Requires OpenGL and modern GPU drivers (NVIDIA/AMD recommended)
- May need additional libraries like `libfontconfig`, `libgtk`, `libcurl`
- Some media features (e.g. streaming) may require `gstreamer` plugins
- Launching via terminal helps diagnose missing dependencies
๐ฆ Installation Tips
- Extract and run directly from the terminal
- Check the [Firestorm Downloads Page](https://www.firestormviewer.org/downloads/) for the latest Linux build
- AppImage or Flatpak formats may simplify setup (if available)
๐งฉ Integration Ideas
Firestorm works well with creative Linux workflows โ including OBS, virtual camera routing, and Stream Deck automation. Ideal for immersive projects and modular setups.
Linux users now have a powerful, open-source-friendly gateway to virtual worlds.
Alchemy Viewer for Linux
Alchemy Viewer is a modern, community-driven viewer for Second Life and OpenSim. It offers a native Linux build alongside Windows and macOS versions.
๐ง Linux Support
- 64-bit Linux package available as `.tar.xz`
- Actively maintained with regular beta releases
- Latest version: 7.1.9.2516
- Includes bug fixes, UI enhancements, and UUID-based search features
๐ง Setup Notes
- No official support team โ help is community-based via Discord and in-world group
- Terminal launch recommended for debugging and dependency checks
- SHA256 checksum provided for integrity verification
๐ ๏ธ Recent Improvements
- Fixed account age display issues
- Improved Heretic skin visuals
- Added UUID-based search for people and groups
- Fixed auto-response menu inconsistencies
- Improved low-resolution texture upload handling
๐ฆ Installation Tips
- Download from the [Alchemy Downloads Page](https://www.alchemyviewer.org/downloads)
- Extract and run from terminal
- Join the Discord or in-world group `.:[Alchemy Viewer]:.` for support and early beta access
๐งฉ Integration Ideas
Alchemy is well-suited for creative Linux setups โ including OBS overlays, virtual camera routing, and modular viewer scripting.
Megapahit Viewer for Linux
Megapahit is a performance-focused viewer for Second Life and OpenSim, offering a Linux build alongside Windows and macOS versions.
๐ง Linux Support
- 64-bit Linux builds available for download
- Latest versions:
- 7.2.1.54496 โ Default release
- 7.2.2.54702 โ Beta (2025.07)
- Source code and changelogs provided for transparency
๐ง Setup Notes
- Distributed as compressed archive (`.tar.xz`)
- Terminal launch recommended for debugging and dependency checks
- Community support via Discord, IRC, and in-world groups
๐ ๏ธ Features & Philosophy
- Emphasis on performance, minimalism, and user control
- Customizable UI and rendering options
- Suitable for advanced users and creative workflows
๐ฆ Installation Tips
- Download from the [Megapahit Downloads Page](https://megapahit.net)
- Verify integrity with provided checksums
- Join community channels for updates and support
๐งฉ Integration Ideas
Megapahit pairs well with modular Linux setups โ including OBS overlays, virtual camera routing, and viewer scripting. Ideal for users who value speed, control, and open-source flexibility.
Linux Viewer Comparison: Firestorm vs Alchemy vs Megapahit
This table compares three actively maintained viewers for Second Life and OpenSim, all offering native Linux builds.
| Viewer | Linux Support | Latest Version | Key Features | Community Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firestorm | โ 64-bit `.tar.xz` | Varies by release | Full feature parity with Windows. SteamVR, WindLight, OpenSim support | Large user base, active forums, in-world groups |
| Alchemy | โ 64-bit `.tar.xz` | 7.1.9.2516 (Beta) | UUID search, Heretic skin, bug fixes, low-res texture improvements | Discord, in-world group `.:[Alchemy Viewer]:.` |
| Megapahit | โ 64-bit `.tar.xz` | 7.2.1.54496 (Default), 7.2.2.54702 (Beta) | Performance-focused, customizable UI, minimalism | Discord, IRC, in-world support |
๐ง Shared Linux Notes
- All viewers require OpenGL and modern GPU drivers (NVIDIA/AMD recommended)
- Launching via terminal helps diagnose missing dependencies
- Some media features may require `gstreamer` plugins or additional setup
- No Flatpak/AppImage officially supported (yet)
๐งฉ Integration Ideas
All three viewers work well with creative Linux workflows โ including OBS overlays, virtual camera routing, and modular scripting. Ideal for users customizing immersive environments.

Discussion