Not a game developer but I have a hunch that its for displaying videos within the game. Like a cut scene.
In a high level, you are correct that Ubuntu is a standalone OS like Fedora. Other distributions have used the background packages that make up Ubuntu to form their own OS with changes here and there. It is similar to how Ubuntu is built on top of Debian.
Sure others can explain this better.
Since you are more familiar with Windows, Linux Mint may be a good start. Can also try PopOS for a different desktop layout, more similar to Mac. These are Ubuntu based systems. Can also give Fedora a try, but may require a bit more of a learning curve. There is also Nobora for a more gaming oriented version of fedora. Try out the live previews before installing to make sure your system works properly.
Not sure if this is something that will help but the site Linux Journey might help you learn how to use and understand Linux more. This is more the core stuff and command line oriented.
For easier transition, start using programs that are available on both systems so you don’t have to jump in cold turkey, if that may be too much. When looking for programs on Linux, always use the provided store first to search. Since you are a programmer, you are aware that there will always be multiple ways to do the same thing, web searching is your friend, just make sure you are searching for the right based system, in the examples above, Fedora or Ubuntu. For programming you are going to enjoy Linux more than windows :).
Remember this is a journey and will take time. Have fun!
Pretty much just been playing Risk of Rain Returns. Fun game but gets pretty hard.
Dead space. The remake was just as good as the original but with updated graphics and mechanics.
I agree with the cheapness making it a low barrier to choose, but nvidia is Aldo doing the same thing. Full screen ads. Apple on the other hand is just locked/closed off, so no solid choice for a streaming device.
Forgot about Horizon. That was a good story as well.
Red dead redemption 2 has a really good story. Gameplay is pretty immersive and lots to explore.
God of war have a really good story and gameplay is overall fun.
Ni no Kuni II I found to be an interesting story. Gameplay was fun overall.
Ori, both games, has a good story to tell. Overall good platformer
Hollow knight is a fun platformer and overall story is good. Similar but not as good, death’s door.
Death stranding has an interesting story but kind of strange. Gameplay is OK but can get a bit repetitive at times.
Spider-Man, overall fun. Story is unique.
Ghost of tsushima, good story and gameplay. Visually lovely.
Cyberpunk 2077 I found immersive, story wasn’t bad but might not be for everyone.
Heard that galaxy buds are pretty balance when it comes to sound. They also have a pink color…I think.