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The best Mac game for most players in 2024 was Baldur’s Gate 3. It offered exceptional role-playing depth, a substantial single-player campaign and strong long-term value. For a technical showcase, choose Death Stranding Director’s Cut; for horror, choose Resident Evil 4 or Resident Evil 7: biohazard; and for strategy, choose Civilization VI.
This guide covers games with an official macOS release available during 2024, prioritising Apple-silicon support while clearly separating native Mac games, Rosetta-compatible titles, older Intel games and announced ports. A game appearing in Apple’s announcements did not necessarily mean it was playable on Mac that day.
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What counts as a Mac game?
This list includes games with an official macOS version available through the Mac App Store, Steam or another legitimate PC storefront. Native Apple-silicon support is preferred, but Intel Mac games that run through Rosetta are included when the limitation matters.
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- Native Apple silicon: built or optimised for Macs using Apple chips.
- Universal or broadly supported: available for Intel and Apple-silicon Macs, subject to the publisher’s requirements.
- Rosetta: an Intel Mac application running on Apple silicon; this is not the same as native support.
- Intel Mac only: useful for older Macs but potentially incompatible with newer macOS releases.
- Compatibility layer: Windows software run through CrossOver, Whisky, Wine, Parallels or cloud gaming. These are not counted as native Mac games.
Store availability proves that a game has a Mac build and states minimum requirements; it does not guarantee a particular frame rate. Performance varies with chip, RAM, resolution, graphics settings, storage and thermal design.
#1 Best Overall
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Quick recommendations
| Game | Best for | Apple silicon | Intel Mac | Main caveat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baldur’s Gate 3 | Best overall RPG | Supported; check current requirements | Verify the current version | Large installation and long sessions |
| Death Stranding Director’s Cut | Best technical showcase | M1 or later | No | 77 GB listing and demanding graphics |
| Resident Evil 4 | Best action horror | Apple-silicon-focused release | Verify listing | Storage and graphics load |
| Lies of P | Best Soulslike | Check current listing | Likely unsuitable | High difficulty |
| No Man’s Sky | Best exploration | Check current requirements | Verify support | Large, evolving game |
| Civilization VI | Best strategy | Version-dependent | Supported versions exist | Expansions add cost |
| Stray | Best short adventure | Verify current requirements | Verify current requirements | Shorter campaign |
| Return to Monkey Island | Best point-and-click adventure | Broad compatibility | Broad compatibility | Less demanding visually |
The best Mac games available in 2024
1. Baldur’s Gate 3 — best overall
Baldur’s Gate 3 is the strongest all-round recommendation because it combines a rich role-playing system, branching choices, memorable characters, turn-based combat and enough content to justify a major purchase. It works equally well as a solo adventure or a co-op campaign.
It is a better fit for a MacBook Pro, Mac mini, iMac or Mac Studio than for a base, fanless MacBook Air during long sessions. Late-game areas and busy encounters can place more demand on the system than the opening hours. Check the current Steam or publisher listing for the exact Mac requirements before buying, and do not assume that a Windows purchase automatically includes every Mac entitlement or save feature.
2. Death Stranding Director’s Cut — best Mac showcase
Death Stranding Director’s Cut is the clearest demonstration that a modern, visually ambitious game can have an official Apple-silicon release. Its open-world delivery routes, cinematic storytelling, unusual multiplayer systems and controller support make it unlike a conventional action game.
The Mac App Store listing checked for this guide required macOS 13.3 or later and an M1 chip or later. It listed the game at 77 GB and showed a US price of $39.99 at the time checked; both price and listing metadata can change. See the Mac App Store listing for current requirements.
Choose it for atmosphere, exploration and presentation rather than constant combat. Its storage requirement and sustained workload make it a poor fit for a small internal drive or a fanless laptop used unplugged for long periods.
3. Resident Evil 4 — best action horror
Resident Evil 4 is the best choice when you want a polished, controller-friendly blockbuster with a complete campaign. The remake mixes tense horror with faster action, precise combat and excellent pacing. It feels closer to a modern console release than most traditional Mac ports.
The Apple-device version is part of Capcom’s dedicated Resident Evil support category. Check the live listing for the required chip, macOS version, storage and purchase model before buying. A controller is strongly recommended.
4. Lies of P — best Soulslike
Lies of P is a focused, linear alternative to sprawling open-world Soulslikes. Its demanding parries, punishing bosses, gothic setting and weapon customisation reward persistence. It is an excellent showcase for a controller and a poor choice if you want an easy, low-friction game.
Rank #2
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- 8BitDo Exclusive Wireless Technology - “8Speed”, it delivers an exceptionally stable 2.4G connection with ultra-low latency under 1ms. Engineered for rock-solid reliability, it features strong anti-interference and a 10m range with virtually no lag.
- Trigger Mode Switch - Easily switch between linear Hall Effect triggers and non-linear tactile triggers for optimal control across different gaming scenarios.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection). Customizable 6-Axis Motion Control. Turbo function. Rumble vibration. Support 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2.
- 2 Pro back paddle buttons, extra R4/L4 bumpers, and tactile bumpers & D-pad for enhanced control and faster response. Includes a multifunctional charging dock and USB-C adapter for seamless connectivity.
Confirm the current Mac listing and chip requirements before purchase. Do not treat a Rosetta-compatible build as native Apple-silicon software, and do not expect the same performance from every M-series Mac.
5. Resident Evil Village and Resident Evil 7: biohazard
These games are complementary rather than interchangeable. Resident Evil Village is broader, more action-heavy and more spectacular, while Resident Evil 7 is tighter, more claustrophobic and played from a first-person perspective.
Capcom provides support information for the Apple versions of Resident Evil 7, Resident Evil Village and Resident Evil 4. Capcom’s documentation indicates that the Mac version of Resident Evil 7 can be tried, but finishing the full game requires purchasing the full-game content. Check the current Capcom FAQ and store listing for the latest purchase details.
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No Man’s Sky is ideal if you prefer systems and discovery to a tightly authored campaign. It combines procedural planets, base building, resource gathering, space travel and multiplayer in a game that can absorb hundreds of hours.
Its scope is also the warning: updates, large environments and multiplayer can make it demanding, and the installation can grow. It is a good candidate for an Apple-silicon Mac with sensible settings, but check current requirements and leave plenty of storage headroom.
7. Civilization VI — best strategy
Civilization VI remains one of the safest Mac recommendations because turn-based play scales well to a range of hardware and a single match can provide dozens of hours. It is particularly suitable for a MacBook Air because you can play in short bursts and pause without losing progress.
The core game is only part of the potential cost: expansions and scenario packs are sold separately and storefront ownership may not transfer between the Mac App Store and Steam. Intel and Apple-silicon compatibility can also vary by version, so check the relevant store page.
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More recommendations by genre
RPGs
- Modern RPG: Baldur’s Gate 3
- Action RPG: Lies of P
- Classic RPG: Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition
- MMO: The Elder Scrolls Online or World of Warcraft
- Exploration-focused science fiction: No Man’s Sky
The Elder Scrolls Online needs particular caution. Macworld’s 2024 coverage reported that Zenimax did not officially support Apple silicon at that time, although the game could run through Rosetta. Treat that as a dated support warning, not a permanent statement, and check Zenimax’s current policy before buying or returning to the game.
Rank #3
- Wide Compatibility - The 1000Hz wireless gamepad controller works seamlessly with PC /Laptop (Windows 7 8 10 11, Xbox Games on PC, Not for Win XP), Android 8.0+ (cellphone, tablet, Smart TV, Samsung TV), for Apple / iOS 13 Above (iPhone, iPad), Mac, MacOS, Switch (Switch, Switch 2), Steam OS/Steam Deck, Tesla (Tesla Model 3 & Model Y) & Xbox Games on PC. Connectivity modes: 1. Wired, 2.Bluetooth Dongle (Not 2.4G), 3. Bluetooth wireless
- Dual Hall Effect Joysticks and Triggers - Experience unparalleled precision and durability with Hall Effect Controller joysticks and triggers. Enjoy no drifting, no dead zones, and precise control with joysticks that offer an extended lifespan. The triggers provide glitch-free, responsive performance, reducing wear and tear, making this gaming controller ideal for competitive gaming
- Ultra-Sensitive Response - The Rechargeable Wireless Gaming Controller achieves 1000H Hz in wired mode & Bluetooth Dongle mode, ensuring precise and prompt responses for seamless gaming, minimizing input lag for a competitive edge.
- 4-Level Vibration & Gyro in Switch - From intense rumble at 100% to a gentle buzz at 30%, the abxylute gaming controller allows you to find the perfect level of immersion for every gaming session. Gyroscope can be available in Switch games, and motion sensing. 【Notice】One-Year after sales warranty.
- Dual Turbo Modes & Long-lasting Gameplay - Customize turbo feature to any button, allowing you to unleash rapid-fire attacks with just a single press. Free your fingers and dominate your opponents effortlessly. The rechargeable wireless PC controller features a powerful 600mAh rechargeable battery, delivering up to 18 hours of continuous gameplay on a single charge. This ensures that you can enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions with your controller for PC
Horror
- Action horror: Resident Evil 4
- First-person horror: Resident Evil 7: biohazard
- Gothic horror: Resident Evil Village
- Atmospheric science-fiction horror: Alien: Isolation
- Psychological horror: The Medium, subject to its hardware requirements
Strategy and management
- Turn-based strategy: Civilization VI
- Grand strategy: a supported Total War title, with careful hardware checks
- Football management: Football Manager 2024
- City building: Cities: Skylines, with hardware caveats
- Compact strategy: Into the Breach or Faster Than Light
Adventure and narrative
- Cinematic: Death Stranding Director’s Cut
- Atmospheric: Stray
- Point-and-click: Return to Monkey Island
- Narrative thriller: Fort Solis
- Short exploration story: Firewatch or Oxenfree
Survival, simulation and racing
- Multiplayer survival: Valheim
- Relaxed farming: Stardew Valley
- Vehicle simulation: SnowRunner
- Racing: GRID Legends
- Life simulation: The Sims 4
- Colony management: RimWorld
Free-to-play and subscription options
- Dota 2
- War Thunder
- Path of Exile
- The Sims 4 base game
- The starter experience of World of Warcraft, where applicable
- Apple Arcade games, which require an active subscription
“Free” does not necessarily mean cost-free over time. Live-service games may include expansions, optional purchases, subscriptions, cosmetics or recurring content. Apple Arcade is a catalogue subscription rather than permanent ownership, and its selection and price can change; see Apple’s current Apple Arcade page.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Best games for different Macs
MacBook Air
Start with Balatro, Stardew Valley, Hades, Hollow Knight, Return to Monkey Island, Into the Breach and Civilization VI. Dota 2 can also work well with appropriate settings. No Man’s Sky and Baldur’s Gate 3 are possible on suitable Apple-silicon models, but sustained high-load play creates more heat and battery drain, particularly on fanless systems.
Do not interpret “launches” as “runs comfortably for hours”. A MacBook Air can start a demanding game while still being a poor fit for long, high-resolution sessions.
Base M-series Macs
Apple-silicon Macs with base M1, M2, M3 or M4 chips are best matched with scalable games such as Return to Monkey Island, Stardew Valley, Hades, Civilization VI, Stray and many indie games. Modern AAA ports can work, but reduce resolution or graphics settings when required.
Pro, Max and Ultra Macs
Extra GPU resources and memory headroom make demanding games more comfortable, but they do not fix a poor port, missing anti-cheat support or a small multiplayer population. They also do not make a Windows-only game a native Mac game.
Intel Macs
Look first at established titles such as Civilization VI, The Sims 4, Stardew Valley, Hades, Hollow Knight, Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition, Minecraft, Dota 2 and World of Warcraft. Older Total War, Tomb Raider and Borderlands games may also be options.
macOS Catalina introduced 64-bit-only support, so older 32-bit games may fail even when the Mac model itself is powerful enough. Compatibility depends on the macOS version as well as the processor.
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Choose Stardew Valley, Hades, Hollow Knight, Into the Breach, Return to Monkey Island or Balatro. Large games can consume tens of gigabytes; Death Stranding Director’s Cut, for example, is listed at 77 GB. An external SSD is more suitable for an active game library than a cheap USB flash drive or a slow mechanical disk.
Rank #4
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Where to buy Mac games
Mac App Store
The Mac App Store offers simple installation, Apple-account integration and, where supported, family-sharing features. It can be the easiest route for Apple-first games such as Death Stranding Director’s Cut and the Apple-device versions of Capcom’s games. Prices, DLC availability, cloud saves and mod support can differ from the Steam edition.
Steam
Steam usually offers more frequent sales, achievements, community features, cloud saves and mod support. It is a major source for Baldur’s Gate 3, No Man’s Sky, Lies of P, Civilization VI, Valheim, Hades, Stardew Valley and Dota 2.
Never assume that purchasing the Windows version grants a Mac version. Open the individual store page and confirm that macOS is listed. DLC, saves and entitlements may also be tied to the storefront or publisher account.
Publisher stores and cloud gaming
Some games are available through a publisher’s own store or launcher. Cloud gaming can provide access to Windows-only titles, but it depends on regional availability, bandwidth, latency, image compression, subscription cost and whether the service accepts games you already own. It is an alternative route, not a native Mac release.
How to check whether a game will run
- Open Apple menu > About This Mac and identify whether the Mac uses Intel or Apple silicon.
- Check the installed macOS version in System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Open the official Mac App Store, Steam or publisher listing for the exact game and edition.
- Confirm that macOS is listed, rather than Windows only.
- Compare the required chip, RAM, macOS version and storage with your Mac.
- Look for native Apple-silicon, Universal or Rosetta information.
- Check controller support, multiplayer or cross-play, launcher requirements and cloud-save limitations.
- Use recent user reports only as supporting evidence. A game launching successfully does not prove that it performs well.
What changed for Mac gaming in 2024?
Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit, introduced in 2023, and Game Porting Toolkit 2, presented at WWDC24, gave developers tools to evaluate and port Windows games to Apple platforms. Apple also promoted Game Mode, MetalFX Upscaling and a larger pipeline of Mac releases.
Apple’s announcements mentioned games including Death Stranding Director’s Cut, Resident Evil 7, Resident Evil 2, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Frostpunk 2, Palworld, Sniper Elite 4 and RoboCop: Rogue City. These announcements mixed available and forthcoming titles, so they should not be read as a guarantee that every game was released during 2024. See Apple’s WWDC24 developer session and Mac gaming announcement for the original context.
Mac gaming limitations to understand
- The Mac catalogue remains smaller than Windows, with delayed ports and games excluded by anti-cheat systems.
- Native Apple-silicon support is not universal; Rosetta compatibility is a compromise.
- Older 32-bit games can stop working after macOS updates.
- MacBook Air models may launch demanding games but are not designed for unlimited sustained gaming loads.
- External displays, high resolutions and high refresh rates increase the workload.
- Unified memory is shared by the CPU and GPU, so an 8 GB Mac has less headroom for demanding games.
- Some ports have smaller multiplayer populations, missing cross-play or separate launchers.
- Mac App Store and Steam versions may have different prices, DLC, save systems and mod support.
- A future macOS update can break an old port even when its store listing remains active.
Final recommendations by player
Choose Baldur’s Gate 3 if you want one deep, self-contained game. Choose Death Stranding Director’s Cut to see what modern Apple-silicon gaming can look like. Choose Resident Evil 4 for blockbuster action horror or Resident Evil 7 for tighter first-person horror. Choose Civilization VI for strategy, No Man’s Sky for endless exploration, and Return to Monkey Island, Stardew Valley or Hades for lighter MacBook-friendly sessions.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
