Valve officially welcomed Linux gamers into the magical, DRM-filled universe of Steam gaming, and tossed in a massive sale of 50 games to get things started.

One of the best things about the Steam gaming world is that purchasing and updating content involves virtually no hassle.

Ubuntu gamers can now get the official Steam client via the Ubuntu Software Center, and a few dozen games are already available for purchase. The offer includes first-party Valve support for games such as Counter-Strike Source, the original Half-Life, as well as Team Fortress 2. The latter also brings Linux users a free Tux the penguin in-game item. Other highlights of the original lineup include high-profile indie games such as FTL, Amnesia, Serious Sam 3: BFE, Bastion and Word of Goo.

To celebrate the new release, Valve put 57 Linux-supported games on sale for 50 to 75 percent off. The deal lasts until Feb. 21, and is also available for the Mac and PC versions.

"The introduction of Steam to Ubuntu demonstrates growing demand for open systems from gamers and game developers," touts David Pitkin, Ubuntu developer and Canonical director of consumer applications. "We expect a growing number of game developers to include Ubuntu among their target platforms. We're looking forward to seeing AAA games developed with Ubuntu in mind as part of a multi-platform day and release on Steam."

In addition to games, the Steam for Linux client also includes Big Picture, the steam mode designed for use with a TV and game controller. Considering recent rumors revolving around Steam Box, which will purportedly run off Linux, this doesn't come as much of a surprise.

Valve kicked off the Steam Linux beta with a modest release in late October 2012, but the company eventually rolled out a public beta in late December 2012.With the new public release, more Linux gamers will likely join the fray in no time.

On the other hand, Valve is only supporting Ubuntu, which means that not all Linux users will be able to use it. It's still a major step forward, however, and Ubuntu is the most popular distribution of Linux. Ubuntu has millions of users worldwide, so this Linux version of Steam will likely serve as the basis of Valve's upcoming plans for the rumored Steam Box hardware.