For DF: The free version had a Linux build for a long time. The paid version adds new graphics, and it took a while for that to get a Linux release.
For Minecraft: you should be able to play without an account if you're single player and using a third party launcher. I almost exclusively play with friends.
We're social creatures. The laugh track makes us feel like we're in a social situation. I think different shows use this more or less cynically.