Ubuntu MATE has a number of guiding objectives and goals.
Accessible to all, regardless of language and physical ability.
Increase both Ubuntu and MATE Desktop user adoption.
Ubuntu alternative for computers that aren’t powerful enough to run a composited desktop.
First choice Ubuntu platform for remote workstation solutions such as LTSP and X2Go.
Recreate the halcyon days of Ubuntu for users who prefer a traditional desktop metaphor.
Use themes and artwork similar to Ubuntu so that Ubuntu MATE is immediately familiar.
When possible contribute to Debian so both the Debian and Ubuntu communities benefit.
Software selection will favour functionality and stability over lightness and whimsy.
In recent years Linux has become a first class gaming platform thanks to Valve bringing the Steam platform to Linux. At the time of writing Steam has thousands of high quality indie and AAA titles available for Linux. Ubuntu MATE is fully compatible with Steam for Linux.
While Steam is a major step forward for gaming on Linux, there are also many high quality and enjoyable Open Source games titles available for Ubuntu MATE via Software Boutique and Software Centre. It doesn’t matter if you like flight simulators, motor racing, first person shooters, jump and run or card games, you’ll find something to keep you entertained.
What Linux, Ubuntu and MATE Desktop all have in common is they are Open Source. Open source software is software that can be freely used, changed, and shared (in modified or unmodified form) by anyone. In a nutshell Ubuntu MATE is free, in the truest sense of the word.
