Linux Mint Forums

Did someone forget to add games to the Darnya distro? I refurbish older computers a donate "packages" to those in need. Each "package" consists of a CPU, monitor, keyboard and mouse. I was under the impression that Mint would be a good choice for young school children, but after loading, I noticed there are no games included. I know they can be downloaded through the Package Manager, but was this an oversight by the developers?

Paddy,
I have noticed with numerous other distros that the games are not included so as to save space on the Live CD. The games, such as my favorite GNOME games, are only a quick one-click install from the software portal.

Linux Mint is an excellent choice for children. My two nieces have Mint installed on their computers. Each one sat with me and actually did the installs (with me suggesting what to click or type, of course). They loved being able to learn to install software, as well as get to pick what they actually wanted to install.

Not an oversight, but more of a decision, I suspect. One of the goals of Linux Mint is for the ISO to fit on a CD as well as to have the features & the visual elements that make it unique. Games didn't make the cut. An easy solution would be for you to download Gnomegames or whatever games you think are necessary & copy them to a thumb-drive or CD-ROM. Then adding them to a fresh install of Linux Mint would only take a additional minute or 2.

Thank you, just wondered

Another option is to use Edubuntu instead of Mint. I use Mint for myself, but I have Edubuntu installed for my nieces because it's primary purpose is to be a children's distro. Don't get me wrong, I love my Mint, but Mint has a more professional look and feel, and does not come pre-loaded with Children's programs. Edubuntu is designed with a look and feel for children, and has all the applications you would need for them. Personally I have no desire to reinvent the wheel, so rather than spend time making Mint work for children, I use a distro for them that is meant for it.

Thanks for the info. I have the edubunto distro, and I will put it on the next Computer donation. Thanks again, this forum is very usefull.