In a groundbreaking move for Mac gaming, CD Projekt Red has announced that Cyberpunk 2077 will be coming to Apple Silicon-powered Macs in early 2025. This release marks a significant milestone in Apple's efforts to establish the Mac as a serious gaming platform.
The upcoming release, titled "Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition," will include the base game and the Phantom Liberty expansion. It will be available through various digital storefronts, including the Mac App Store, Steam, GOG, and the Epic Game Store.
This version of Cyberpunk 2077 is designed exclusively for Apple Silicon Macs, leveraging the advanced capabilities of Apple's custom chips. The game will take full advantage of Metal, Apple's graphics API, to deliver stunning visuals and optimal performance.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this release is the implementation of MetalFX, Apple's upscaling technology. This feature is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining smooth gameplay while rendering the game's complex, visually demanding environments.
The arrival of Cyberpunk 2077 on Mac is particularly noteworthy given the game's reputation for pushing hardware to its limits. Known for its detailed open world and advanced graphics features like ray tracing, Cyberpunk 2077 will serve as a true test of Apple Silicon's gaming capabilities.
Apple has been actively courting major game developers to bring AAA titles to the Mac platform. Recent and upcoming releases include Assassin's Creed Mirage, Death Stranding, and Resident Evil Village. However, Cyberpunk 2077's arrival is particularly significant due to its technical demands and widespread popularity.
For existing PC players, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that those who own the game on Steam will be able to access the Mac version at no additional cost.
While this release is undoubtedly a major step forward for Mac gaming, industry observers note that Apple still has a long way to go before the Mac can be considered on par with dedicated gaming platforms like Windows PCs or gaming consoles.
As Apple continues to improve its hardware and software ecosystem for gaming, releases like Cyberpunk 2077 serve as important benchmarks. The success of this and other AAA titles on Mac could potentially encourage more developers to consider the platform for future releases, gradually expanding the Mac gaming library.
The release of Cyberpunk 2077 on Mac represents not just a new gaming option for Apple users, but a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of the Mac as a gaming platform. As the release date approaches, all eyes will be on how Apple Silicon Macs handle one of the most demanding games of recent years.