CD Projekt Red has officially announced thatCyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Editionwill be arriving on Macs equipped with Apple silicon in early 2025. This version is optimized to leverage Apple’s hardware and Metal graphics API and offer advanced features like path tracing, frame generation, and built-in Spatial Audio.
Historically though, CDPR’s support for macOS has been limited.The WitcherandThe Witcher 2: Assassins of Kingswere released for Mac but suffered from performance issues, and have been criticized for subpar optimization.The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, despite its critical acclaim, has not been officially available on macOS, leaving Mac users without access to one of CDPR’s flagship titles. However, now thatCyberpunk 2077is coming into the mix, it should just be the tip of the iceberg.
Cyberpunk 2077’s Release on Mac Should Enable Better Support and More Releases
Now that CDPR has announced the release ofCyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Editionon Mac, it should pave for more than just this one-time release. By optimizing the game for Apple silicon, CDPR would demonstrate a commitment to providing a high-quality gaming experience for Mac users. Better yet, it could enable future support of other titles, including the possibility of bringingThe Witcher 3to macOS.
Apple’s recent advancements in hardware and software have made the Mac a more viable gaming platform. The introduction of Apple silicon has significantly enhanced performance capabilities and the Metal graphics API has matured to support complex gaming requirements. CDPR’s decision to bringCyberpunk 2077to Mac aligns with these developments and suggests a recognition of the growing potential of theMac gamingmarket.
Fixing the Witcher 1 and the Witcher 2 Should Be Prioritized
Improving the performance ofThe WitcherandThe Witcher 2could be a relatively low-cost endeavor that would build goodwill among Mac gamers.TheWitcherandCyberpunk 2077are two separate game franchisesbut they have somewhat overlapping fanbases. If the first two installments ofThe Witcherare first prioritized and CDPR actively engages in resolving issues communicated thus far, it would create a sense of trust among the community and help take them into confidence.
If the studio ends up taking it a step further and comes up with an even more aggressive, ambitious approach, the second step could be to bringThe Witcher 3to Mac and that too would instantly satisfy long-standing demand andexpand CDPR’s reach within the gaming community. The result could be a snowballing word-of-mouth among gamers who use Mac and CDPR would become the flagbearer of enabling quality gaming experience among Mac users.
Project Orion Could Have Mac Support From Day One
Looking ahead,Project Orion, the upcoming sequel toCyberpunk 2077, presents an opportunity for CDPR to further solidify its commitment to the Mac platform. A simultaneous Mac release would broaden the player base and enhance CDPR’s reputation for accessibility. Early Mac support could also position CDPR as a leader in cross-platform development, and that would set a precedent for other developers to follow.
If the release ofCyberpunk 2077on Mac goes well, it could have broader implications for the gaming industry. As one of the few AAA game developers bringing a flagship game to macOS, CDPR could inspire other major game developers to consider the platform. This aligns with Apple’s broader goal of making Macs a preferred gaming platform, supported by features likeMetalFX Upscalingand Game Mode. A successful release could therefore create a virtuous cycle, increase demand, and lead to more game releases on Mac.
At the same time, while Apple silicon is powerful, it is still relatively new, and even optimized games can face unforeseen performance issues. These risks might deterCDPRfrom a long-term commitment to the platform, especially ifCyberpunk 2077encounters performance problems or does not achieve satisfactory sales.
Cyberpunk 2077
WHERE TO PLAY
Cyberpunk 2077 is an open-world action-adventure from the creators of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, CD Projekt Red.Set in Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour and body modification, you play as V, a mercenary outlaw going after a one-of-a-kind implant that is the key to immortality.Upgraded with next-gen in mind and featuring free additional content, customize your character and playstyle as you take on jobs, build a reputation, and unlock upgrades.The relationships you forge and the choices you make will shape the story and the world around you. Legends are made here. What will yours be?
