Running Windows Games on a Mac: A Complete Guide

By Technology Desk March 8, 2025 4 Min Read

There are numerous reasons one might choose Macs over Windows-based PCs, but gaming is not typically among them. This isn’t to imply that gaming on a Mac is impossible—modern Apple Silicon computers boast a decent amount of power. The issue lies in the fact that many popular games lack native Mac downloads. When you search the Mac App Store or Steam, you’ll uncover a variety of games available for Mac, but they may not include the specific titles you’re after.

Additionally, there’s the challenge of Apple’s faster break with backward compatibility compared to Microsoft. For instance, contemporary versions of macOS have made it impossible to run 32-bit applications. If you possess a Steam library filled with games that functioned flawlessly on your Mac from 2015, you may discover that numerous titles won’t operate at all on the Mac you purchased last year.

This can be quite vexing. However, before you abandon hope and purchase a gaming laptop, keep in mind that there are ways to run PC games on a Mac. It’s feasible to get many Windows games—even recent releases—up and running on Apple hardware. It simply requires some effort and, in certain cases, a bit of investment.

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Solution

I wish I could confidently state that there’s an unmistakable best method for playing Windows games on a Mac. Unfortunately, the reality is more nuanced and likely depends on the specific game you wish to play.

For starters, it’s advisable to visit the Apple Gaming Wiki and search for the game you’re interested in. Each title features a compatibility chart indicating which tools have been successful in getting the game operational on a Mac. You’ll also find general advice for smooth performance. In most situations, you’d want to select the tool that has the best-documented results.

Typically, three tools are highlighted in the results: CrossOver, WINE, and Parallels. Below, we’ll examine each of these options in detail.

Additionally, keep an eye out for dedicated ports created by third parties for certain games. For instance, fans developed a port of Sonic Mania for the Mac, allowing you to play the game if you purchase the Windows version and transfer the necessary files. Similarly, a dedicated client was also produced by fans for Final Fantasy XIV. Such specific ports will generally be mentioned on AppleGamingWiki, so be on the lookout for them. Now, let’s delve into the best tools available.