macOS and Gaming have not been synonymous for a long time. macOS is not considered a great platform for gaming because it has limited game compatibility compared to Windows.
Most games are developed for Windows and may not work on macOS, or they may not run as smoothly due to differences in hardware architecture.
Additionally, macOS often lags behind in terms of GPU performance, making it difficult to run demanding games at high graphics settings. The Mac App Store also has a smaller selection of games compared to Steam or other PC game distribution platforms.
Overall, while macOS is a great operating system for productivity and creative tasks, it falls short when it comes to gaming.
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What would it take to make macOS great for Gaming?
To make macOS a great platform for gaming, several things would need to be addressed:
Improved hardware performance: MacOS devices would need to have better GPUs, CPUs, and more RAM to support demanding games and provide a smooth gaming experience.
Game compatibility: Game developers would need to create macOS versions of their games or make sure that the existing games run well on macOS, without any compatibility issues.
Game distribution: The Mac App Store or other game distribution platforms for macOS would need to have a wider selection of games, including popular titles and genres, to attract gamers.
Gaming-oriented features: MacOS could also benefit from features specifically designed for gamers, such as customizable key bindings, improved mouse and keyboard support, and enhanced graphics options.
In summary, making macOS great for gaming would require a combination of hardware improvements, game compatibility, game distribution, and gaming-oriented features. Still, there are quite a lot of titles that are present for the macOS platform online. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.
Top 25 Games for Mac:
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive:
Image Credit: Valve Corporation
Publisher: Valve
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
OS: macOS X 10.11 (El Capitan) or later
Processor: Intel Core Duo Processor (2GHz or better)
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: ATI Radeon HD 2400 or better / NVIDIA 8600M or better
Storage: 15 GB available space
One of the best FPS games. CS GO remains a fan favorite even for people on macOS because it just runs well straight out of the box. Although native Metal-based support might make things even better! Note: CS GO is now deprecated and CS 2 does not have native macOS support but it can be run using an application called CrossOver.Hades:
Image Credit: Supergiant Games Publisher: Supergiant Games
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
OS: 10.13.6+
Processor: Dual Core 2.4GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: Intel HD 5000 (must support Metal API)
Storage: 15 GB GB available space
Additional Notes: MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Mini late 2012 and newer; Mac Pro late 2013 and newer; MacBook 2015 and newer
Hades is an action role-playing game developed by Supergiant Games and released in 2020. The game takes place in the underworld and players control the prince of the underworld, Zagreus, as he tries to escape and reach the surface.
Hades received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging storyline, fluid combat, and character development.Cities Skylines:
Image Credit: Paradox Interactive Publisher: Valve
Platform: Paradox InteractiveMinimum Requirements:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: OS X 10.11 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo, 3.0GHz
Memory: 6 GB RAM
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 260, 512 MB or ATI Radeon HD 5670, 512 MB (Does not support Intel Integrated Graphics Cards)
Network: Broadband Internet connection
Storage: 4 GB available space
Cities: Skylines is a city-building simulation game developed by Colossal Order and published by Paradox Interactive. The game allows players to design and manage their own cities, making decisions on zoning, transportation, and infrastructure while also balancing the city’s budget and resources.
Cities: Skylines has received positive reviews for its depth and complexity, with players praising the level of detail and control offered in city-building. It is available on macOS and many other platforms.Stardew Valley:
Image Credit: ConcernedApe LLC Publisher: ConcernedApe LLC
Platform: SteamMinimum Requirements:
:OS: Mac OSX 10.10+
Processor: 2 GHz
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: 256 MB video memory, OpenGL 2
Storage: 500 MB available space
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game developed by ConcernedApe and published by Chucklefish. Players take on the role of a farmer, managing crops, raising livestock, and forming relationships with other characters in the game. Stardew Valley also features elements of exploration, combat, and crafting.
The game has received widespread critical acclaim for its charming and relaxing gameplay, as well as its engaging storyline and characters. Stardew Valley is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Dota 2:
Image Credit: Valve Corporation Publisher: Valve
Platform: SteamMinimum Requirements:
OS: macOS 10.13 or newer Processor: Dual core from Intell
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA 320M or higher, or Radeon HD 2400 or higher, or Intel HD 3000 or higher
Network: Broadband Internet connection
Storage: 15 GB available space
Dota 2 is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Valve Corporation. It is the sequel to Defense of the Ancients (Dota), a popular custom map for Warcraft III. Dota 2 players control a hero character and work with a team to destroy the enemy team’s Ancient, a large structure located in their base.
The game has a large and dedicated player base and is also known for its competitive scene, with numerous professional tournaments held each year. Dota 2 is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Terraria:
Image Credit: Re-Logic Publisher: Re-Logic
Platform: SteamOS: OSX 10.9.5 – 10.11.6 Processor: 2.0 GHz
Memory: 2.5GB Hard Disk Space: 200MB
Video Card: 128Mb Video Memory, capable of OpenGL 3.0+ support (2.1 with ARB extensions acceptable
Terraria is a 2D action-adventure game developed by Re-Logic. The game features exploration, building, and combat in a randomly generated world.
Players can gather resources to construct their own buildings and equipment, and can also battle various enemies and bosses. Terraria has been praised for its addictive and rewarding gameplay, as well as its retro-inspired graphics. The game is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Garry’s mod:
Image Credit: Facepunch Publisher: Facepunch
Platform: SteamMinimum Requirements:
OS: OS X version Snow Leopard 10.6.3
Processor: 2 GHz Processor or better
Memory: 4 GB RAM Graphics: 512MB dedicated VRAM or better
Network: Broadband Internet connection
Storage: 5 GB available space
Additional Notes: Mouse, Keyboard, Monitor
Garry’s Mod is a sandbox physics game developed and published by Facepunch Studios. The game allows players to manipulate objects and experiment with physics in a virtual world. Garry’s Mod has no set objectives and encourages players to be creative and imaginative in their use of the game’s tools and features.
The game has been praised for its open-ended gameplay and has a dedicated player community, with many custom game modes and mods created by players. Garry’s Mod is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Left 4 Dead 2:
Image Credit: Valve Corporation Publisher: Valve
Platform: SteamMinimum Requirements:
OS: macOS 10.7
Processor: Dual-core Intel processor, 2GHz or better
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: ATI Radeon 2400 or higher / NVIDIA 8600M or higher / Intel HD Graphics 3000
Storage: 13 GB available space
Additional Notes: Not supported: OS X 10.5.x, ATI X1600 or X1900 graphics, NVIDIA GeForce 7 graphics or Intel graphics less than Intel HD 3000.
Left 4 Dead 2 is a cooperative first-person shooter game developed and published by Valve Corporation. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, and players must work together to survive and reach safety. Left 4 Dead 2 features fast-paced and intense gameplay, with players facing hordes of zombies and special infected enemies.
The game also has a strong emphasis on teamwork and communication, with players relying on each other to survive. Left 4 Dead 2 is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Elder Scrolls Online:
Image Credit: Bethesda Softworks Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Platform: SteamMinimum Requirements:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Mac® High Sierra v 10.13
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo processor Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 560 graphics (4GB of VRAM)
Network: Broadband Internet connection
Storage: 85 GB available space Additional Notes: OpenGL: 4.1
The Elder Scrolls Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by ZeniMax Online Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. The game is set in the world of Tamriel and features a rich, open-world environment for players to explore. Players create their own characters and embark on quests, battle enemies, and form alliances with other players.
The Elder Scrolls Online has received positive reviews for its immersive world, compelling storyline, and engaging gameplay. It is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Kerbal Space Program:
Image Credit: Private Division Publisher: Private Division
Platform: SteamMinimum Requirements:
OS: macOS 10.12+ 64-bit
Processor: Intel
Memory:4 GB RAM
Graphics: SM 4.0 512MB VRAM Hard Drive:3 GB HD space
Kerbal Space Program is a space flight simulation game developed and published by Squad. In the game, players control the space program of a hypothetical alien race called the Kerbals and are tasked with designing and launching spacecraft to explore the solar system. The game features realistic physics simulation and allows players to experiment with different designs and see the consequences of their choices.
Kerbal Space Program has been praised for its educational value, as well as its entertaining gameplay, and is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Disco Elysium:
Image Credit: ZA/UM Publisher: ZA/UM
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements: Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: macOS version 10.13.4 or 10.14.1 or 10.15.4 or newer
Processor: i3 Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: An OpenGL-supported GPU
Storage: 20 GB available space
Disco Elysium is a narrative-driven role-playing game developed by ZA/UM. The game is set in a fictional city and follows a police detective who is tasked with solving a murder case. Disco Elysium features an open-world environment and a branching dialogue system, allowing players to shape the story and their character through their choices and actions.
The game has received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, world-building, and character development, and has been praised for its innovative and engaging storytelling. Disco Elysium is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Shadow of the Tomb Raider:
Image Credit: Square Enix Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
OS: macOS 10.15
Processor: 2GHz Intel Core i5
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: 2GB AMD Radeon R9 M290 or better, 1.5GB Intel Iris 540 or better
Storage: 40 GB available space
Shadow of the Tomb Raider is an action-adventure game developed by Eidos Montreal and published by Square Enix. It is the third entry in the rebooted Tomb Raider series and follows the adventures of Lara Croft as she explores various tombs and ruins in search of ancient treasures.
The game features a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, as well as a deep and immersive storyline. Shadow of the Tomb Raider has been praised for its visuals, sound design, and tight gameplay mechanics, and is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Vampire Survivors:
Image Credit: poncle Publisher: poncle
Platform: Steam
Minimum:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10 64bit
Processor: Intel Pentium 4 processor or later that’s SSE2 capable
Memory: 1 GB RAM
Storage: 400 MB available space
Vampire Survivors is a survival game developed by Toybox. In the game, players control a group of survivors in a world overrun by vampires. The game features a crafting system, base building, and resource management. Players must gather resources, craft items, and upgrade their base while avoiding or fighting off the vampire enemies.
The game also has a multiplayer mode, allowing players to join forces and work together to survive. Vampire Survivors is available on Steam for Windows and macOS platforms.Sid Meier’s Civilization VI:
Image Credit: 2K Games Publisher: 2K Games
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: 10.14.6 (Mojave) Processor: Intel Core i5 2.7Ghz
Memory: 6 GB RAM
Graphics: 1 GB GPU Minimum – GeForce 775M | Radeon HD 6970 | Intel Iris Pro
Storage: 15 GB available space
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K Games. The game tasks players with building and leading a civilization from the ancient era to the modern day. Players make decisions on resource management, diplomacy, and warfare, as they compete against AI-controlled civilizations or other players in a race to become the dominant power in the world.
The game features deep and complex systems, with numerous technological advancements, cultural achievements, and historical events to discover and experience. Civilization VI is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Divinity: Original Sin 2:
Image Credit: Larian Studios Publisher: Larian Studios
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements
: Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: macOS 10.13.6 High Sierra Processor: Core i5
Memory: 8 GB RAM Graphics: HD
Graphics: HD Graphics or Radeon R9 M290X
Storage: 20 GB available space
Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a role-playing game developed and published by Larian Studios. The game takes place in a high fantasy world and features isometric, party-based gameplay. Players create and control a group of characters, exploring the world, engaging in combat, and making choices that affect the story.
The game features a deep and intricate system for character development, with a wide range of skills, spells, and abilities to choose from. Divinity: Original Sin 2 has received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, world-building, and gameplay mechanics, and is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Minecraft:
Image Credit: Mojang Studios Publisher: Mojang Studios
Platform: Official Site
Minimum Requirements:
OS: 10.14.5 Mojave
Processor: Intel Core i3 / Apple M1
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4000 or AMD Radeon R5 series
Storage: 1 GB
Minecraft is a sandbox game developed by Mojang Studios (now owned by Microsoft). The game takes place in a randomly generated blocky world where players can explore, build structures, mine resources, and survive against enemies such as zombies and creepers. Minecraft has two main gameplay modes: Survival and Creative.
In Survival mode, players must gather resources, craft items, and build shelters to survive in a harsh environment, while in Creative mode, players have unlimited resources and can build freely without any restrictions. The game has a large and active community, and players can play on servers or with friends in multiplayer mode. Minecraft is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Portal 2:
Image Credit: Valve Corporation Publisher: Valve
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
OS: MAC OS X 10.6.7 or higher
Processor: Intel Core Duo Processor (2GHz or better)
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: ATI Radeon 2400 or higher / NVIDIA 8600M or higher / Intel HD Graphics 3000
Storage: 8 GB available space
Portal 2 is a first-person puzzle-platform game developed and published by Valve Corporation. The game is set in the Aperture Science Laboratory and players control a character known as Chell, navigating through a series of puzzles using the “portal gun,” which creates interconnected portals between two surfaces.
The game features a single-player campaign, as well as a cooperative multiplayer mode, in which two players work together to solve puzzles. Portal 2 is known for its unique and challenging gameplay, as well as its witty writing and strong narrative. The game received widespread critical acclaim and is considered one of the best games of all time. Portal 2 is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Brawlhalla:
Image Credit: Ubisoft Publisher: Ubisoft
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements
:OS: 10.7
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Storage: 800 MB available space
Additional Notes: OpenGL: 4.1
Brawlhalla is a free-to-play 2D platform fighting game developed and published by Blue Mammoth Games. The game features a roster of characters, each with their own unique weapons and abilities, who battle it out in fast-paced, multiplayer matches. Brawlhalla supports up to eight players online or locally and offers a variety of game modes, including 1v1, 2v2, and 4-player free-for-all.
The game has a large and active community, and players can earn rewards, including new characters and cosmetic items, by participating in weekly events and climbing the ranked ladder. Brawlhalla is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Metro Exodus:
Image Credit: 4A Games Publisher: 4A Games
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements
: Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Mac OS Catalina 10.15
Processor: Intel Core i7 – 7820
Memory: 16 GB RAM Graphics: Radeon Pro 560
Metro Exodus is a first-person shooter game developed by 4A Games and published by Deep Silver. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world in the year 2036, and players control Artyom, a survivor of the Moscow Metro who must travel across Russia in search of a new life. The game features a combination of linear levels and open-world environments, as well as a variety of weapons and equipment that players can use to survive against human and mutant enemies.
Metro Exodus also features dynamic weather and day-night cycle, and a crafting system that allows players to modify their weapons and equipment. The game received positive reviews for its immersive world, intense combat, and strong narrative. Metro Exodus is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Euro Truck Simulator 2:
Image Credit: SCS Software Publisher: SCS Software
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements: OS: Mac OS X 10.9 (Mavericks)
Processor: Dual-core CPU 2.4 GHz
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: GeForce GTS 450-class (Intel HD 4000)
Storage: 12 GB available space
Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a simulation game developed by SCS Software that puts players in the role of truck driver. The game takes place in Europe and players can drive across a large map, delivering cargo to different cities and towns. The game features a variety of vehicles, each with its own unique handling and characteristics, as well as a complex economic system where players must manage their finances, purchase upgrades for their vehicles, and expand their trucking business.
The game has a large and dedicated following and is known for its realistic driving mechanics, beautiful graphics, and relaxing gameplay. Euro Truck Simulator 2 is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Diablo 3:
Image Credit: Blizzard Entertainment Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
Platform: Battle.net
Minimum Requirements:
OS: macOS® 10.13 (High Sierra) (latest version)
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce 320M or ATI Radeon HD 4670 or Intel HD Graphics 4000
Storage: 25 GB available HD space
Diablo III is an action role-playing game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. The game takes place in the dark fantasy world of Sanctuary, and players control a hero character on a quest to defeat the evil Lord of Terror, Diablo. The game features five character classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle, as well as a variety of weapons and armor to collect and upgrade.
Diablo III features fast-paced, hack-and-slash gameplay, with an emphasis on player choice and customization. The game also offers a robust multiplayer mode, allowing players to team up with others and take on the challenges of Sanctuary together. Diablo III is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Rust:
Image Credit: Facepunch Studios Publisher: Facepunch Studios
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements: Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: OS X El Capitan 10.11
Processor: Intel Core i7-3770 / AMD FX-9590 or better
Memory: 10 GB RAM
Graphics: GTX 670 2GB / AMD R9 280 better
Network: Broadband Internet connection Storage: 25 GB available space Additional Notes: Metal is required,
Rust is an online multiplayer survival game developed by Facepunch Studios. The game takes place on a deserted island and players must gather resources, build shelters, and defend themselves against other players and environmental hazards such as hunger and thirst. The game features a complex crafting system, where players can create a wide variety of weapons, tools, and structures.
Rust also has a player-driven economy, where players can trade items and resources with one another. The game is known for its harsh and unforgiving environment, where player interaction can range from friendly cooperation to brutal PvP combat. Rust is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Undertale:
Image Credit: Toby Fox Publisher: Toby Fox
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
OS: Mac OS X
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Storage: 200 MB available space
Undertale is a role-playing game developed by Toby Fox. The game takes place in the underground world of monsters and follows the story of a human who falls into the underground and must navigate their way back to the surface. The game features a unique combat system where players can choose to spare or fight against enemies, and their actions have a direct impact on the story and its characters.
Undertale is known for its charming and quirky humor, memorable characters, and touching story, as well as its unique blend of role-playing and bullet-hell gameplay. Undertale is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Total war WARHAMMER III:
Image Credit: SEGA Publisher: SEGA
Platform: Steam
Minimum Requirements:
OS: macOS 12.0.1
Processor: Apple M1 (8 Core CPU) or better
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: Apple M1 (7 Core GPU) or better
Storage: 125 GB available space
Total War: WARHAMMER III is a turn-based strategy game developed by Creative Assembly. The game is set in the Warhammer Fantasy Battles universe and features epic real-time battles with thousands of soldiers and powerful heroes. Players take control of one of several factions, each with their own unique units, skills, and playstyle, and must engage in diplomacy, resource management, and military conquest to achieve their goals.
The game features a deep and complex campaign mode, as well as a range of multiplayer options. Total War: WARHAMMER III is known for its rich and immersive world, deep and engaging gameplay, and spectacular battles. It is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.Call of Duty®: Black Ops III:
 | Publisher: Activision Platform: Steam Minimum Requirements: OS: 10.13.6 (High Sierra) or later Processor: Intel® Core™ i5 (4 Cores) @ 2.3 GHz Memory: 8 GB RAM Graphics: ATI® Radeon™ M295X @ 2GB Network: Broadband Internet connection Storage: 150 GB available space |
Call of Duty: Black Ops III is a first-person shooter game developed by Treyarch. The game is set in the year 2065 and features advanced technology, including robotics, cybernetics, and a range of futuristic weapons. Players take on the role of a Black Ops soldier and must complete a variety of missions, ranging from stealth operations to all-out assaults.
The game features a single-player campaign, as well as a range of multiplayer modes, including traditional deathmatch, objective-based modes, and zombies. Call of Duty: Black Ops III is known for its fast-paced and intense gameplay, as well as its high-quality graphics and sound design. It is available on macOS, as well as other platforms.
Bonus:
The Asphalt Series of Racing games are also great for Mac users who are looking to pass some time. The Asphalt 9 and Asphalt 8: Airborne games are available for free on the App Store and are great games for racing enthusiasts.
Most people avoid buying Macs for gaming. The few who can only afford to have an Apple machine for work, often try and find ways to make sure they can enjoy gaming as well on this platform. And we tried our best to help such people out! In case you have any more great games to add to this list then do let us know in the comments section below!
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