Steam... for Linux?

Phoronix has posted some information stating that they have received confirmation that Valve is porting their Source Engine to Linux.  Rumors of such an event have been floating around for a while, but these seem to be more than just rumors.  Phoronix rarely posts unofficial information or rumors, but they will when are they are nearly 100% sure the information is correct.  So how will this affect anything?

Well, for starters, the Source Engine is very powerful, offering HDR, one of the best AI systems, a Havok-based physics system, and many more awesome features.  Not only that, but word has it, as would be expected, that Valve's content distribution program, Steam, will also be available on Linux.  This would open up Linux users to a huge number of games without the use of any special programs, such as Wine.

Not only that, but if a bunch of new games become available for Linux and the Linux gaming community increases, companies will have a reason to develop better Linux drivers instead of relying on unofficial, manytimes unstable Linux drivers.  This could be a huge turning point for the Linux community.

It also could turn out to be just another temporary excuse for real Linux support in games.  But my guess is that this is not the case.  Judging by Valve's history, this is going to be a big deal, and it could easily change the way most people view Linux.

I know that I will definitely be a happier Geek.  I don't believe I could think of a single good reason to use Windows once I can play all the best games in Linux natively.

Oh, and there will probably be Mac support too, but that makes no difference to me.