When people think of PC gaming, they typically consider Windows or even lately Linux, but rarely Macintosh. However, Apple aims to change that perception with its new macOS and a new tool.
During the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023, Apple introduced a new macOS version called “Sonoma” for Macs and MacBooks. Along with it, Apple also introduced a new tool called “Game Porting Toolkit” that allows game developers to easily port Windows games to the Mac.
Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit is designed to assist developers in easily running their games on macOS with minimal effort. It is built upon Wine, a well-known open-source platform that facilitates the translation of Windows software to Unix-based environments like macOS and Linux.
However, Apple’s efforts extend beyond merely enabling game compatibility on macOS. The Game Porting Tool, according to Apple’s explanation, also has the capability to translate DirectX 12 into Metal 3. For those who may not be familiar, DirectX is an application programming interface (API) available on Windows and Xbox consoles, responsible for handling graphics rendering and game audio. Metal, on the other hand, is Apple’s own API that performs similar functions to DirectX.
Apple claims that while certain games can run smoothly without any modifications to the code using the Game Porting Tool, native macOS versions of games perform even better, achieving nearly double the frame rate on the same hardware. This emphasises Apple’s encouragement for developers to go beyond simply running translated versions of their Windows games.
After using the Game Porting Tool to test a Windows game on macOS, developers have access to new tools that facilitate the conversion of DirectX graphics into Metal. This enables the game to run natively on macOS, resulting in significantly improved performance. Furthermore, the macOS Sonoma SDK provides developers with additional resources to leverage native system features, such as game controller support, Spatial Audio, and HDR video capabilities. These features enhance the gaming experience on macOS and optimise it for Apple’s hardware and software ecosystem.
There are already people using this tool to run Cyberpunk 2077, Diablo 4, and Hogwarts Legacy on M1, M1 Max, and M2 Max MacBook Pro respectively. Although the performance is less than ideal, this proves that this tool works.
Besides that, developers can enhance gaming on macOS with “Game Mode”, part of macOS Sonoma. It prioritises the foregrounded game, offering benefits like reduced Bluetooth latency for AirPods, doubled Bluetooth sampling rate for PlayStation and Xbox controllers, and higher GPU and CPU priority.
This leads to more responsive audio, precise controller inputs, and improved frame rates for smoother gameplay. These enhancements apply automatically to all Mac games, allowing developers to optimise their titles and deliver an exceptional gaming experience on macOS.
