How to replace Mutter with Compiz to enable Wobbly effect?

Question

I'm running Ubuntu 11.10 with Gnome shell, because Unity is too slow. Is there a way I can enable extra visual effects which I had in Lucid Lynx? How can I replace my Windows managers? I prefer to use Gnome 3 or Gnome classic if Compiz works. Thanks!

Answer 1

From the Gnome 3 Myths page:

I can't use Compiz with GNOME Shell!

Because the GNOME Shell project wanted "tighter integration" between the panel and window manager than cooperating with the Compiz project would allow, this could actually be true. This mailing list post has more information.

Gnome Shell relies on Mutter to do its fancy work, just as Unity (3D) relies on Compiz. You can't mix and match unfortunately.

This might get fixed in time but I wouldn't hold my breath.

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Gnome Classic does work with Compiz though. If you're happier with a panel-based setup and want the wobblyness, you can turn compiz on by running compiz --replace.

To turn on wobbly windows, I suggest you install compizconfig-settings-manager and then run ccsm to change the compiz settings. A word of warning: CCSM is a powerful tool without any safety latches. It's quite easy to break Compiz with it so if you do ever get stuck, you can reset your settings by running:

gconftool-2 --recursive-unset /apps/compiz

Answer 2

Just install Compiz from the Ubuntu Software Centre, and run compiz --replace. That should do (it if your hardware is supported).

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You can open a Run dialog by pressing Alt+F2.