Are you a Mac user who enjoys playing games? Unlike Windows users, who have many choices in the gaming realm, it can be challenging to find the best free games for Mac. But don’t worry because this article features the 15 best free-to-play games on Mac.
Action? Check. Adventure? Check. Card games, board games, galaxy exploration? Whether you prefer traditional games or something a little different, these free games for Mac will keep you hooked! So, tune in and get ready to play!
How to Download Games on Mac for Free
There are various gaming distribution platforms where you can find downloadable free games for your Mac computer. Some popular ones are Steam and Battle.net (developed by Blizzard Entertainment).
Additionally, some game developers have made it possible to download their games directly from their websites. To do this, you just need to head on to the developer’s website, find and click the “Download” button, and install the game on your Mac.
These are the two other methods of downloading games on your Mac:
Method 1. Steam
Mac users love Steam because of its diverse selection of free Mac games. This means there is something for everyone without having to spend money. The interface is also easy to use, and downloading games is simple.
Steam also has a community where players can read reviews and participate in forums to discover new games and share their experiences.
Follow these steps to install the best free to play games on Steam to your Mac:
- Step 1. Head to “steampowered.com” on your browser.
- Step 2. Log in to your existing account or create one.
- Step 3. Click “Install Steam > Allow”.
- Step 4. Click “Downloads” & double-click the “steam.dmg” file.
- Step 5. Drag the “Steam icon” to the Applications folder.
- Step 6. Open Steam.
- Step 7. Click on “Categories > Mac Os > Free To Play”.
- Step 8. Go to “System Requirements”.
You’ll find if your PC and the game you want to download are compatible here. - Step 9. Click “Install > Allow”.
Method 2. Battle.net:
Battle.net is highly preferred because of the incredibly high-quality and popular games it offers to Mac users for free. It also runs seamlessly on macOS systems and offers powerful multiplayer features.
In addition, Battle.net works reliably with a user-friendly interface, making it a popular choice for those seeking a captivating experience without the frustration of compatibility issues common with other gaming platforms.
These are the steps to install Battle.net and download games from it:
- Step 1. Head to “us.shop.battle.net/en-us.”
- Step 2. Click “Download Battle.net” then double-click on the “battle.net setup” file.
- Step 3. Allow all prompts & choose the language you want.
- Step 4. Enter your local administrator password & click “Update Setting.”
- Step 5. Log in with your username and password, or create an account.
- Step 6. Open the app & browse for available games compatible with Mac.
- Step 7. Click “Install”.
Compared to Steam, Battle.net has few game options, so finding free and available games for Mac is easier.
Users with OS X 10.6.6 or later can also download games directly from the Mac App Store.
15 Best Free Games for Mac Os
Here are the 15 best games for Mac for free:
1. Dota 2
Game Type: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Genre: Action, Strategy
One of the best free games for Mac and one of the most played competitive multiplayer games today is Dota 2. The main objective is to destroy the “Ancient,” a solid structure in the middle of the opposing team’s base.
To defeat the enemy, you must coordinate, strategize, and work together with other players. This is the main theme of the game.
2. Eve Online
Game Type: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG)
Genre: Space Simulation, Science Fiction, Combat
Eve Online is set in a science-fiction universe. In this game, you travel as starship pilots through star systems on exploration, trade, and combat missions.
As a player, you have many options for your activities. You can contribute to the player-driven economy by creating goods using valuable materials. The game also lets you form alliances and work with other players to gain new territories.
There are also fierce player-versus-player (PvP) battles available for those who enjoy action and want to test their skills.
3. War Thunder
Game Type: Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) Military
Genre: Action, Vehicular Combat, Combat Flight Simulator
Set in the mid-20th century, War Thunder offers an adventure that includes air, land, and sea combat. You can take control of various historically accurate vehicles, tanks, planes, and naval vessels from countries involved in World War II and other conflicts.
War Thunder also offers a variety of game types, including arcade, realistic, and simulator battles.
4. StarCraft II
Game Type: Real-time Strategy (RTS)
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Simulation, Military
StarCraft II takes place in a science fiction world. It focuses on three groups – the Terrans, the Zerg, and the Protoss. Each group has its own special units, structures, and strategies.
You can be commanders who manage resources, build bases, organize armies, and compete against other players in the multiplayer mode. The game also offers a single-player mode with challenging missions.
If you’re a fan of Fortnite, you’ll be delighted to know that there are two ways to play Fortnite on your Mac!
5. Path of Exile
Game Type: Action Role-Playing Game (ARPG), Hack and Slash
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Path of Exile takes place in the mysterious and dark fantasy world of Wraeclast. You get to be a character exiled to this forsaken land due to a criminal past. You must navigate dangerous terrain and face off against monsters.
One of the game’s standout features is its character customization system, allowing players to create a unique and formidable character to suit their preferred style.
Check out our list of free MMOs for Mac to get more games that you can enjoy!
6. Final Fantasy XIV Online
Game Type: MMORPG
Genre: High Fantasy, Open World, Action
In the world of Eorzea, a constant battle between good and evil rages on. As a hero, you will face crazy enemies, from god-like creatures with immense power to evil empires.
While exploring the game’s story, you’ll embark on quests and engage in epic battles. To conquer even more complex challenges and uncover all the secrets hidden in the land, you must team up with other players.
7. Star Trek Fleet Command
Game Type: Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate (4X), RPG, MMO
Genre: Strategy, Space Simulation
In this game, players assume the role of a starship captain on a journey to discover the galaxy, complete missions, and engage in epic battles.
You will encounter famous and beloved Star Trek characters, ships, and groups. Build and customize your own fleet, handle resources, and team up with other players to form alliances and defeat powerful enemies.
8. Brawlhalla
Game Type: Free-to-Play
Genre: Arcade, Action
The game features a diverse category of characters called “Legends”, whose goal is to knock their opponents off the stage and score points.
The gameplay is spiced up by the random appearance of various weapons and gadgets on stage. Additionally, the game has a very cool art style.
Game Type: Vehicular Combat Game
Genre: Vehicular Simulation, Third-Person Shooter
Robocraft is a multiplayer battle game where players use customized robots. In this futuristic world, you will gather resources to design and build your own robots.
Robocraft’s strategic element adds to its thrill. Carefully considering your choice of weapons and armor is crucial to defeating your opponents.
10. Hearthstone
Game Type: Digital Collectible Card Game
Genre: Card Battle, High Fantasy
Set in the world of Warcraft, Hearthstone is a game where you become a powerful hero from a variety of classes. Each class has special abilities and cards. You will use these cards to battle other players in strategic card-based matches.
Matches take place on a virtual game board, where you can place minions, cast spells, and use tactics to reduce your opponent’s health to zero.
11. World of Tanks Blitz
Game Type: MMO, Combat PVP (Person vs. Person)
Genre: Vehicular Combat, Action, Strategy
Battles take place on a variety of maps, with seven players on each side.
World of Tanks Blitz is designed for easy play and offers fast-paced, action-packed matches. The game can be enjoyed by both casual gamers and those with a deep interest in tanks.
12. Shadowverse
Game Type: Multiplayer Digital Collectible Card Game
Genre: Anime, Fantasy, Strategy
In a fantasy world, you play a mighty “Shadowcrafter”, summoning fearsome creatures with incredible magical abilities to engage in epic battles using cards.
Building unique decks, developing strategies, and participating in duels against AI opponents and real players in the online world allows players to be creative and have an immersive experience.
13. Albion Online
Game Type: MMORPG
Genre: Medieval High Fantasy
The game is set in a medieval fantasy world, where you can gather resources, craft items, and trade with other players in a vast open world. You can choose your character, such as a skilled warrior, expert craftsman, resource gatherer, or builder.
The battles in this game can range from small battles to guild wars. You can conquer territories, and what’s even cooler is that every decision you make affects the game’s economy and politics.
14. Unturned
Game Type: Combat PVP
Genre: Apocalypse Survival
This game brings you to a world of zombie apocalypse. The main goal is to procure essential resources such as food, water, weapons, and shelter to survive against the zombie hordes and other players.
The game offers a variety of activities, such as crafting, base building, and exploration. You can build shelters, reinforce them against zombie attacks, and personalize their equipment. The game supports both solo and multiplayer play.
15. RISK: Global Domination
Game Type: Digital Board Game
Genre: Strategy
RISK: World Domination is based on the classic board game and allows players to take on the role of a powerful world leader vying for power.
The world map is divided into territories, where you can strategically deploy armies, forge alliances, and deploy military campaigns to conquer territories and ultimately establish world domination.
Bonus: World of Warcraft (Free Trial)
Game Type: MMORPG
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Steampunk
In the magical kingdom of Azeroth, you and players from around the globe are transported into a world of exciting adventures, fascinating stories, and endless opportunities.
You can design your character from various races and classes, each with superior powers and skills. You can then go on epic quests, face powerful enemies, and form communities of players. This game is one of the highest quality and best free games for Mac.
Note that the free trial only allows you to play up to level 20.
To find the best free-to-play games on Steam for Mac, check this article out.
Why Do Some Games on Windows Don’t Work on Mac?
Some games on Windows don’t work on Mac because of its differences in operating systems, hardware architectures, and system dependencies with Windows. Mac is not designed for gaming, and there’s a larger market on Windows, so developers create more games for this platform.
Developing games compatible with Mac and Windows systems requires a massive investment of time and resources.
As for the hardware issue, Apple introduced Apple Silicon in some Mac models in September 2020. This was a significant change, as Mac hardware has used Intel processors for 14 years. With Apple Silicon, most Mac computers released in late 2020, especially the M3 Pro, M3 Max, and M2 Ultra models, were able to run AAA games smoothly.
You can find the Mac computers with Apple silicon on Apple Support.
Which Laptop Is Best for Gaming?
The top picks for the best gaming laptop in early 2024 are the Dell Alienware m18, Razer Blade 14, and Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition.
1. Dell Alienware m18 R1: Best Overall
Price: $2,399.99
The Dell Alienware m18 R1 is a gaming laptop that sets itself apart from the competition with its outstanding gaming performance.
It also offers great gaming features, an impressive display with a 16-inch screen at QHD+ 165Hz or an astounding FHD+ 480Hz, an excellent sound system, and a user-friendly software interface.
2. Razer Blade 14: Most Powerful
Price: Starts at $1,699.99
The Razer Blade 14 is one of the best for a reason! It has all the power you need for smooth gaming. It’s also lightweight and only 14 inches, making it easy to carry around. Plus, the QHD+ 240Hz display’s visuals are stunning.
If you are looking for a top-notch gaming laptop that is powerful and portable, the 2023 Razer Blade 14 is one to consider.
3. Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition: Ideal For Budget Gaming
Price: $1,499.99
The Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition also stands out as one of the top-notch gaming laptops. It is not cheap, but it’s still surprisingly affordable for a powerful gaming laptop.
It offers impressive performance, stunning visuals with the option FHD+ 165 Hz refresh rate or QHD+ 240 Hz refresh rate, and a battery that could last all day.
Enjoy Free Games for Mac!
MacBooks are better for gaming than you might expect. However, when it comes to the debate of Windows vs Mac for gaming, Windows still holds the advantage. But this doesn’t mean Mac computers are the worst option for gaming.
The mentioned examples of free games you can play on Mac demonstrate that Apple is making progress in the gaming aspect of their Macbooks, with the potential for even more improvement in the future.
