How to Play PUBG on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide
Since PUBG: Battlegrounds has gained immense popularity on Windows, Mac users have often wondered if they can play PUBG on Mac. While official support for macOS is not available, there are workarounds that allow you to enjoy the game on your Mac. In this guide, we will explore the methods to run PUBG: Battlegrounds on both Intel and Apple Silicon models, enabling Mac users to experience the thrill of the game.
Is It Possible to Play PUBG on Mac?
Despite the lack of official macOS support, there are third-party tools that enable you to play PUBG: Battlegrounds on Mac. Virtualization software like CrossOver and Parallels, while capable of running some Windows-exclusive games, cannot launch PUBG on Mac. Fortunately, there are alternatives available for both Intel and M1/M2 Macs.
Also Read: How to Play PUBG Mobile on Your PC
Will PUBG: Battlegrounds Ever Be Available on Mac?
The game's creator, Brendan Green, addressed the question of Mac support during the 2017 Gamescom Conference. His response indicated that the decision not to support Mac was primarily due to limited resources and the relatively small-player base on the platform. Unfortunately, PUBG Battlegrounds is not on the roadmap for macOS, and it is unlikely to be released in the future.
System Requirements
Even though official PUBG Mac requirements are not provided, the Windows requirements can serve as a reference for Mac users planning to run the game through alternative methods. These requirements include:
- Processor: Intel i5-4430
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 2GB / AMD Radeon R7 370 2GB
- Hard Drive: 40 GB
Play PUBG on Mac
To play PUBG on your Mac, you have several options based on your Mac model. The available methods are as follows:
Intel
For Intel-based Macs, Boot Camp is the recommended method to run Windows games. Boot Camp, a free utility, allows you to install and run Windows on your Mac, similar to any other computer. To set up Boot Camp, open the Boot Camp application in your "Utilities" folder and follow the assistant. You can find detailed instructions and FAQs on Apple's support page. The process involves partitioning your Mac's hard drive and installing Windows. Once Windows is installed, you can restart your Mac and switch to Windows using the Boot Camp startup menu. From there, you can install PUBG and other Windows games, and play them on your Mac's hardware.
Using Boot Camp provides the advantage of running PUBG on your Mac without any virtualization overhead, resulting in better performance and compatibility. However, it requires allocating a significant amount of disk space for the Windows partition and restarting your Mac each time you want to switch between macOS and Windows.
M1 or M2
Unfortunately, Parallels and CrossOver cannot run PUBG on Apple Silicon Macs due to the game's aggressive anti-cheat measures. However, there is a viable workaround in the form of streaming services. One such service is NVIDIA GeForce Now, which allows you to stream and play PUBG effortlessly on your M1 or M2 Mac. While streaming services may not provide the exact same experience as running the game locally, they still offer an enjoyable gaming session. With streaming, remote servers process the game and stream it to your Mac over the internet. This eliminates the need to install PUBG on your Mac and worry about hardware compatibility. The heavy lifting is performed by the remote servers, and you interact with the game through the streaming client.
To use NVIDIA GeForce Now, you need to create an account, download the GeForce Now app, and log in. Once logged in, you can search for PUBG and start playing. Keep in mind that a stable and fast internet connection is crucial for a smooth streaming experience.
While streaming services like NVIDIA GeForce Now offer convenience and compatibility with Apple Silicon Macs, they heavily rely on the quality of your internet connection. If your internet connection is slow or unreliable, you may experience lag, latency, or visual artifacts during gameplay.
Also Read: Appear Offline on PUBG Mobile - A Step by Step Guide
Alternative Games to PUBG on Mac
If you are unable to play PUBG on your Mac, there are alternative Battle Royale games available. Some popular options are:
Fortnite Battle Royale:
Fortnite, developed by Epic Games, is an immensely popular and free-to-play Battle Royale game that has captured the attention of Mac gamers. It offers a unique combination of building mechanics and intense shooting action, making it a leading choice in the genre with its vibrant art style, regular updates, and cross-platform play.
Counter Strike: GO Danger Zone
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO) stands as an immensely popular multiplayer shooter renowned for its precise gunplay and tactical gameplay. Recently, the game introduced its own Battle Royale mode, Danger Zone. In this mode, players are parachuted onto an expansive map, compelled to scavenge for weapons, equipment, and resources amidst thrilling battles against opponents. CS: GO has earned its place as the top choice for competitive gamers.
Conclusion
While PUBG: Battlegrounds does not officially support macOS, Mac users can still enjoy the game through alternative methods. Whether you choose to use Boot Camp on Intel Macs or streaming services on Apple Silicon Macs, you can experience the thrill of PUBG on your Mac. Additionally, there are other Battle Royale games available natively on macOS, such as Fortnite and CS: GO Danger Zone, which offer exciting alternatives for Mac gamers seeking a similar gameplay experience. By exploring these options, Mac users can enjoy the Battle Royale genre on their gaming platform of choice and join the excitement of intense multiplayer battles.
