14 DAY TRIAL // AMD is working on a graphics API that should provide a true alternative to OpenGL and Direct3D and that should, in theory, be platform-independent. Unfortunately, the development for the Linux platform hasn't been confirmed, only hinted at, but AMD is still thinking about the open source platform.
The Mantle API is a project started by AMD and Dice, the famous gaming studio behind the Battlefield series. The hardware company is looking to weaken the hold that NVIDIA has on Direct3D, and the easiest way to do that is by promoting its own solution.
Unfortunately for Linux users, besides a couple of mentions about the open source platform a few months ago, nothing else was announced. Most people now believe that AMD is not seriously considering bringing Mantle to Linux, but that might not be the case.
As spotted by phoronix.com, AMD hasn't forgotten about Linux and the company has mentioned this platform in one of its blog posts and it leaves little room for interpretation.
“With the recent announcement of widespread availability of the entire AMD Radeon™ R9 Series graphics lineup at original suggested list prices, there could hardly be a better time to get your game on with AMD. This week we’re focusing on one of the AMD Radeon R9 Series graphics cards’ most compelling attributes: Mantle API support. Mantle is already enjoying rapid industry adoption, but there are a few recent developments that are once again causing Mantle to make news in the media.”
“On March 20 Microsoft announced DirectX® 12, the next major evolution of its own game API. This is terrific news because it really draws attention to the value of low-level programming and Mantle’s leading contribution. With DirectX 12 games still over 18 months away and no alternatives in sight for Linux gamers, Mantle’s future looks bright.” said AMD's Jay Lebo.
This is still far from an official acknowledgment that Linux is a first-class citizen, but the fact that the open source platform is mentioned and offered as an example indicates that we might see some very interesting changes in the Linux ecosystem.
If things go according to plan for AMD, the Mantle API will be able to provide some needed competition for both Direct3D and OpenGL, which is always a good thing. The fact that it will be an open API is also a good sign.
Users will know that AMD is serious when the company implements the necessary support for Mantle in the Catalyst driver for Linux. Until then, there is only hope and no certainty.