Apple has long been known for its sleek hardware and innovative software, but when it comes to gaming, the macOS platform has often fallen short compared to its Windows counterparts. Many popular Windows-based blockbusters and recent titles have remained unavailable on macOS, leaving Mac gamers craving more. However, a recent announcement from Apple during WWDC 2023 suggests that the tides may be turning for Mac gaming enthusiasts.
During the event, Apple unveiled its plans for Windows PC game emulation using the newly introduced Game Porting Toolkit. This toolkit, according to reports from VideoCardZ, will enable knowledgeable users to employ a DX11/DX12 Wine-like translation layer to bring Windows games to Mac systems. The company behind this software breakthrough is CodeWeavers, and their CrossOver app serves as the key tool for emulating Windows apps on macOS through the Game Porting Toolkit.
While it’s important to temper expectations, as the software is not yet flawless and Wine translation still has its fair share of bugs and optimization challenges, modders have already achieved promising results. Titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Diablo IV have reportedly been successfully run on both M1 and M2 Mac systems using the new software toolset.
Early reports indicate that Cyberpunk 2077 runs at below 15 fps on the M1 system with Ultra settings, while the M2 Max system manages around 40 fps with the same settings. On the other hand, Diablo IV and other titles like Hogwarts Legacy or GTA Vice City run quite well on M2 Max chips, providing a more enjoyable gaming experience.
Diablo IV on M2 Max using macOS Sonoma and game porting toolkit
by u/just_reload_it in macgaming
In addition to the exciting emulation news, Apple made a surprise announcement during WWDC 2023 that sent shockwaves through the gaming community. Esteemed game developer Hideo Kojima took the stage as a special guest and revealed plans to bring not only Death Stranding Director’s Cut but also future titles from his studio to Mac systems. This partnership with Kojima Productions holds great significance, given Kojima’s immense influence and reputation within the gaming industry.
The collaboration between Kojima and Apple has the potential to rejuvenate Mac gaming and bring a more extensive library of titles to macOS. Furthermore, Apple’s initiatives to enable gamers to play the best PC games currently exclusive to Windows are encouraging signs for the future. Although performance may vary, the mere fact that games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Diablo IV can run on macOS is remarkable.
With the introduction of the Game Porting Toolkit and strategic partnerships with renowned studios, Apple aims to build a robust lineup of games for Mac, enticing more users to embrace Mac gaming and potentially increasing its market share in the PC gaming arena.
While the road to a thriving Mac gaming ecosystem may still have its challenges, Apple’s recent moves demonstrate a commitment to improving the gaming experience on macOS. As the company continues to collaborate with industry leaders and refine its gaming technologies, Mac gamers can look forward to a brighter future with a broader selection of titles at their fingertips.
