Apple’s Mac lineup of computers can be great at productivity; however, when it comes to gaming, many people prefer Windows devices because of the better compatibility and availability of PC games.
Mac users don’t have to be disappointed as technology has evolved, and there are many ways that will let you enjoy the latest PC games on your Mac computer.
In this guide, we will tell you all the different methods to play PC games on a Mac.
Also read: How to run Windows 11 on M1 Mac
How to play Windows PC games on a Mac (5 ways)
Parallels
Parallels is software that uses a virtual machine to install Windows on your computer and run the latest games available. It is also compatible with M1 chips, so you will be able to run it on newer Mac devices.
The main advantage it offers is the ability to switch seamlessly between Windows and macOS without requiring you to reboot your computer.
If you are looking for a good virtual machine solution that is similar to or better than Apple’s Boot Camp, then Parallels is the perfect software for you.
Geforce Now
Another way to play popular PC games on your Mac is by using a game cloud streaming service like Geforce Now. This way, you will be able to run the latest AAA games at the highest possible settings by utilizing RTX graphic cards that power Nvidia’s servers.
You just need to have a good internet connection to enjoy the latest games, and the service will run all the games remotely.
Geforce Now offers plenty of the latest games, and you will be easily able to play competitive games like Fortnite with your friends at ultra settings.
Its huge library includes games from Steam, Battle.net, and Ubisoft Connect, which are stored on their servers and can be streamed instantly at any time.
You will be able to use Geforce Now for free but for only 1 hour and have to wait in a queue to enjoy it.
In order to enjoy playing games on the service for a longer period of time, you will need to pay $10 to purchase the Priority Membership.
Do note that you can only play those games on Geforce Now, which you currently own on platforms such as Steam and Ubisoft Connect.
The availability of the service is currently limited to the USA, Europe, and certain parts of Asia.
You need to keep in mind that your experience will largely depend on the speed of your internet and your current location.
CrossOver
In case you are using the new Macs powered by Apple’s latest M1 chips, then you will be able to easily run Windows games on your system with the help of CrossOver.
It is an application that is based on the Wine project and allows users to run 32-bit and 64-bit Windows apps on devices running macOS or Linux.
You don’t need to install any virtual machine and install Windows to play the latest games if you use Crossover. This can be very useful for those running Mac devices powered by the ARM-based M1 chip since it isn’t compatible with Apple’s Boot Camp utility.
While playing games by using CrossOver, you won’t be able to run those games which utilize DRMs, and there might be times when you would face poor performance or low graphics.
If you still wish to use CrossOver, then you purchase it for a price of $59.95 with an option to try it with a 14-day trial version.
WineBottler
This is another app that is based on the Wine project and allows you to run Windows applications, including games, on your Mac computer.
WineBottler uses a compatibility layer allowing users to download all the popular apps via its main hub. The only catch is that you will be able to play those Windows games that are currently compatible with Wine, so the library of games will be somewhat limited.
You can download WineBottler for free, which makes it a good choice if you want to play PC games on Mac without purchasing a separate membership or software.
Boot Camp
Apple’s proprietary Boot Camp utility is one of the easiest ways to install Windows on your computer without a virtual machine.
You will be able to dual boot between Windows and macOS at any time, and it uses the hardware of your computer to its full potential so you can enjoy the latest games smoothly.
The only problem is that you won’t be able to run Mac apps and play Windows games side by side, which can be done with virtual machines.
However, you will be able to play the majority of the 32-bit and 64-bit games available on Steam, Origin, and Epic games that otherwise won’t be able for you to play on macOS.
These are some of the best tools available currently that will help you easily run the latest PC games on your Mac computer.
There are plenty of other tools and virtual machines solution that you can download in case none of the programs listed above suit your needs.
The rise of game streaming services such as Geforce Now, Google Stadia, Amazon Luna, and Microsoft xCloud have enabled those with low-end computers to easily run the latest games without spending a lot of money.
You don’t need to purchase a high-end Windows computer or the newest console to enjoy the latest and greatest AAA titles with your friends since your existing hardware can still be utilized with the help of these tools.
