Gaming on Mac has significantly improved over the past decade, thanks to hardware upgrades, better optimization, and growing support from game developers. While Macs were once seen as poor choices for gaming, they now offer a solid experience across a wide range of genres, from indie hits to AAA titles. Whether you use a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, or a Mac Studio, there are many games playable on Mac that run natively or with the help of tools like Apple Silicon optimization, cloud gaming, or even compatibility layers like Crossover. Below are some of the best games you can enjoy directly on your Mac without needing to switch platforms.
Popular Games with Native macOS Support
Several developers create versions of their games that run natively on macOS, providing solid performance and full compatibility. These games don’t require any special setup and can be downloaded and installed like any typical application.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a relaxing farming simulation game where players can build their dream farm, raise animals, mine for resources, and even form relationships with townsfolk. Its lightweight system requirements make it ideal for Mac users of all types.
- Low hardware requirements
- Supports mods and multiplayer
- Perfect for casual and long gaming sessions
Civilization VI
Civilization VI lets you build a civilization from the ground up and guide it through the ages. It’s a turn-based strategy game that’s both deep and rewarding, and it runs very well on most Mac systems.
- Full macOS support
- Strategic and historical gameplay
- Good performance even on older Macs
Divinity: Original Sin 2
For RPG lovers, Divinity: Original Sin 2 offers a rich fantasy world, tactical turn-based combat, and excellent storytelling. The macOS version is highly optimized and supports cross-play with other platforms.
- Full-featured RPG with cooperative play
- Highly praised narrative and gameplay systems
- Cross-platform compatibility
Mac-Compatible Indie Games
Indie developers are often more supportive of macOS, and many of their games are built to run efficiently across platforms. These titles are perfect for Mac users who enjoy creative, experimental, or story-driven games.
Hades
Hades is a fast-paced rogue-like action game set in the underworld of Greek mythology. It features incredible voice acting, art design, and gameplay loops that keep players engaged through multiple runs.
- Native Mac version available
- Low to medium system demands
- Perfect for both casual and hardcore players
Celeste
Celeste is a 2D platformer that challenges players with tight controls, intricate level design, and an emotional story. Its minimalist art style doesn’t require high-end specs, making it very Mac-friendly.
- Great for fans of skill-based games
- Lightweight and fast-loading on macOS
- Includes accessibility features
Slay the Spire
Slay the Spire combines card game mechanics with rogue-like structure. It’s addictive, strategic, and offers endless replayability. It runs smoothly on most Macs, including older ones.
- Simple interface optimized for all screen sizes
- Highly replayable and mod-friendly
- Perfect for short or long gaming sessions
AAA Games You Can Play on Mac
Although AAA game support for Mac is not as vast as on Windows, there are still several major titles that have been ported well. Thanks to Apple’s Metal API and powerful new chips, AAA performance is getting better every year.
Tomb Raider (Reboot Series)
The modern Tomb Raider trilogy, starting with the 2013 reboot, is available on macOS. These action-adventure games feature cinematic storytelling, stealth mechanics, and stunning visuals that perform well on higher-end Macs.
- Native support for macOS
- Action-packed gameplay and exploration
- Available as a complete trilogy
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
The final installment of the reboot trilogy, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, features the most graphically demanding content of the series, but it is optimized for newer Macs and offers settings that scale well for performance.
- Dynamic environment interaction
- Supports Metal for improved graphics
- Runs well on M1 and M2 chips
World of Warcraft
Blizzard’s long-standing MMORPG has excellent Mac support, including native compatibility with the latest Apple Silicon chips. World of Warcraft offers massive worlds, deep customization, and ongoing content updates.
- Long-term support for macOS
- Constant patches and new expansions
- Runs great even on base MacBooks
Cloud Gaming Options for Mac
For games that aren’t available natively on Mac, cloud gaming services are a powerful alternative. These platforms allow you to stream PC games on your Mac without the need for installation or high-end specs.
GeForce Now
GeForce Now allows you to stream many of your existing games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, or Ubisoft Connect. The service supports macOS and requires only a stable internet connection.
- No need to install or update games locally
- Runs graphically intensive games on any Mac
- Free and premium subscription tiers
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming can be accessed via Safari, offering a wide selection of Xbox Game Pass titles playable on Mac. This service is still evolving but already provides access to major games instantly.
- Controller-compatible
- Dozens of console titles playable via browser
- Expands your Mac’s game library instantly
Using Compatibility Layers and Emulators
For games that don’t offer native macOS support, tools like Crossover, Parallels Desktop, or Wine can be used to run Windows games on Mac. While results vary, many players have successfully played popular titles using these tools.
Crossover
Crossover by CodeWeavers is a commercial tool that makes it easier to run Windows software on macOS. It has growing compatibility with Steam games and continues to be updated for M1/M2 support.
Parallels Desktop
Parallels allows users to run a virtual Windows environment within macOS. This works well for older games or lighter Windows applications, but performance may suffer for intensive games unless using powerful hardware.
Best Games for Apple Silicon Macs
With the introduction of Apple Silicon chips like the M1 and M2, gaming on Mac has seen dramatic performance improvements. Developers have started optimizing their games for this architecture.
- Resident Evil Village runs smoothly on M1/M2 chips
- No Man’s Sky optimized for Apple Silicon with fast loading
- Baldur’s Gate 3 fully supported and plays beautifully
These optimized titles show what the future of Mac gaming looks like powerful, efficient, and increasingly competitive with traditional gaming PCs.
The range of games playable on Mac today is broader than ever before. Whether you’re into immersive RPGs, fast-paced action, thoughtful strategy, or relaxing indie experiences, macOS offers something for every type of gamer. Native support continues to grow, Apple Silicon is unlocking new performance levels, and cloud gaming fills in the gaps. With so many high-quality options now available, Mac users no longer need to feel left out of the gaming world. The future of gaming on Mac is bright, accessible, and evolving with each new release.