Best I Mac For Gaming 2018

As for general advice, for gaming go to Kohl’s (dedicated store guide). Best 'Black Friday' 2018 Ad Deals: Amazon, Apple, Best Buy, Target And Walmart. Amazon Black Friday 2018: $24 Echo Dot. Bottom Line: Corsair's first PC, the One Pro, is the new benchmark for small-form-factor gaming systems. It delivers high-end gaming performance of desktops twice its size, with a sleek look and a. The best mid-size gaming desktop Tomas Patlan Why you should buy this: You’re looking for something small, dense, and deceptively powerful (like a neutron star). Apple macOS High Sierra Apple macOS Sierra Windows 10 Windows 10 Windows 10 Windows 10 Pro. The Best Gaming Laptops of 2018. The Best Laptops of 2018. The Best Business Laptops of 2018.

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  3. Apple Imac For Gaming
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  6. Best 2018 Gaming Computer Builds

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The Rundown

  • Best Overall:Dell Inspiron 3464 i3464-3038BLK-PUS at Amazon, “A superb choice for anyone looking for a wallet-friendly all-in-one.”
  • Runner-Up, Best Overall: Asus Zen Z240 at Amazon, “A premium all-in-one configuration that's a strong contender, even when pitted against industry giants.”
  • Best Gaming: Lenovo Ideacentre 700 at Amazon, “A ready-made gaming machine that won’t break the bank.”
  • Best Alternative:Acer Chromebase at Amazon, “Easy to learn and perfect for both new and older computer users.”
  • Best Design:HP Envy 34 at Amazon, “One of the largest all-in-one displays on the market.”
  • Runner-Up, Best Design: Dell XPS 27 (Refurbished) at Amazon, “A massive 27-inch screen showcasing deep, vibrant colors in 4K resolution.”
  • Best Apple:27' iMac with Retina 5K Display at Apple, “If you’re in the market for an all-in-one PC and are already an Apple user, this is a great option.”
  • Best Basic: Acer Aspire S24 at Amazon, “An everyday computer wrapped in an ultra-slim, elegant package.”
  • Best for Business: HP EliteOne 800 G4 at Amazon, “Has everything workplaces need in a solid all-in-one desktop.”
  • Best Splurge:Apple iMac Pro 27' at Amazon, “Delivering an impressive set of specs to match its eye-popping price tag.”

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Dell Inspiron 3464 i3464-3038BLK-PUS

With a simple, yet sleek design, Dell’s Dell Inspiron 3464 i3464-3038BLK-PUS series is a superb choice for anyone looking for a wallet-friendly all-in-one. Right off the bat, the front-facing speaker grill offers great sound for media consumption, with all the essential ports tucked away on the back. Outfitted with 802.11ac, a 23.8-inch full HD wide-angle display and Intel Core i3 processor with 8GB of RAM, performance is more than good enough for day-to-day work. This isn’t the computer you’d buy if Photoshop is your main task, but it is a great computer for the whole family to do homework on, balance the checkbook and surf the Web.

Budget-pricing does mean some tradeoffs, but the fortunate news is that overall performance isn’t one of them. There’s just 500GB of hard drive space as opposed to the semi-default standard of 1TB. Additionally, there’s no touchscreen, which may or may not is a deal breaker. At the sub-$650 price point, Dell still includes a wireless mouse and keyboard and that makes it even more attractive.

If you're new to this kind of desktop system, find out what defines an all-in-one personal computer.

Runner-Up, Best Overall: Asus Zen Z240

Asus is a brand more often associated with affordable laptops, but after scouring their offerings, we were able to find a premium all-in-one configuration that's a strong contender — even when pitted against industry giants like Apple and Dell. The Z240 comes with a Core i7 processor that offers speeds of 2.4 GHz, and turbo boost capabilities up to 4.0 GHz. There’s 32GB of Ultra Performance RAM onboard, plus a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce graphics card with its own 5GB of RAM. Basically, that all amounts to a lightning-fast machine at a respectable price.

There’s plenty of onboard storage with a 2TB standard hard drive and 512GB of solid-state storage, giving you speed, capacity and versatility. Keep in mind that the nearly 24-inch display is also a touchscreen, giving it a major leg up on a couple of the others on the list. Additionally, an HD camera, six-speaker audio, Bluetooth, and plenty of physical inputs and outputs (one USB 3.1 Type-C, four USB 3.0, one USB 2.0 and two HDMI out) round out the machine's versatility.

Best Gaming: Lenovo Ideacentre 700

While Lenovo’s IdeaCentre 700 may be a great all-in-one computer, it’s an equally great gaming computer. There’s plenty of power to offer with a 6th generation intel Core i5 2.7GHz processor and the inclusion of a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 950A GDDR5 graphic card. Throw in 8GB of RAM, 1TB of hard drive space plus an 8GB SSD drive and you’ve got a ready-made gaming machine that won’t break the bank. Not to mention, the 23.8-inch ultra-high definition 2840 x 3160 LED-backlit LCD allows for an immersive experience. At 19 pounds, Lenovo has crammed in outstanding gaming credentials for a price tag that’s likely to cause sticker shock (and in a good way).

Lenovo also purposefully built the 700 to be upgrade-friendly, with RAM expandable to 16GB (and you're also able to update the storage and graphics card down the road). The computer also features a depth-sensing RealSense camera, stereo speakers and a five-degree tilt forward or a 25-degree backward tilt. With a computer of these capabilities, you'll understand why the desktop PC isn't dead.

Take a look at other product reviews and shop for the best gaming PCs available online.

Best Alternative: Acer Chromebase

While Windows 10 and Apple’s Mac certainly rule the roost, Google’s Chrome OS isn’t lying down and, with the addition of Android apps earlier this year, the platform is ramping up to be a true contender. Released in mid-2016, Acer’s Chromebase offers a change of pace from the software you’ve known for years with something that’s arguably far easier to learn and perfect for both new and older computer users. Based on Google’s Chrome browser, the Chromebase is powered by an Intel Celeron 3215U processor, 4GB of RAM and a 16GB SSD. Unlike Windows and Mac, the Chromebase strength is in the cloud, so the lack of hard drive memory is rarely a concern.

The 1920 x 1080 23.8-inch Full HD edge-to-edge display offers 10-point touch and a variety of ports on the rear, including USB 3.0. The included HD conferencing camera helps Acer position the Chromecase as perfect for the boardroom or the home with video options like Google+ and, ultimately, Skype through the inclusion of Google’s Android apps. The two stereo speakers provide more than enough volume to be heard on a conference call, as well as play movies or YouTube clips without missing a beat, while the four microphones make sure the other side hears you just as clearly. Ultimately, the Chromebase provides an interesting conundrum. Can you do your work or personal stuff in a browser? For some, the lack of dedicated apps like they’ve grown accustomed to on Windows or Apple’s hardware for years will be hard to give up, but for others, the simplistic approach with just a browser to rely on may be enough to do everything they need without spending a fortune.

If you aren't up to dropping a ton of a cash on a computer, check out our picks for the best budget desktop PCs for under $500.

Best Design: HP Envy 34

It's hard to deny that HP’s Envy 34 display all-in-one PC is a beautiful piece of hardware. It may be a bit pricey, but it does offer one of the largest all-in-one displays on the market. This display is also supported by outstanding hardware, thanks to a Core i7 4.00GHz processor, 32GB of RAM, 1TB SSD drive and a NVIDIA GeForce 960A graphics card with 2GB of dedicated memory.

As much of a workhorse as the Envy is, it’s the 3440 x 1440 display LED-backlit display that is jaw-dropping. Of course, with any good display, you’ll need good sound, and the inclusion of Bang & Olufsen speakers makes watching movies or listening to music a joy. Additionally, there is a slew of ports and inputs on the rear of the computer, and a wireless keyboard and mouse are included.

If this PC impresses you, you may want to read our roundup of the best-looking PCs on the market today.

Runner-Up, Best Design: Dell XPS 27 (Refurbished)

If your PC is going to be the center of your workspace, it might as well make a statement. With the Dell XPS 27, the glossy screen will be the first thing to catch your eye. This massive 27-inch screen showcases deep, vibrant colors in 4K resolution (3840 x 2160). The design is reminiscent of the Apple iMac, except for the touch screen and prominent speakers, which remains one of the defining characteristics of this PC.

There are ten speakers in total: two tweeters, 6 full-range drivers, and two passive radiators. The audio packs a powerful punch, reaching over 90dB in volume, with a frequency range of 70Hz to 20KHz, producing an all-around dynamic sound and rich bass. The Dell XPS 27 also features an i7-6700 3.4GHz processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 2TB hard-drive. The one downside is its weight — at 38.1 pounds, the XPS 27 is a back-breaker of a machine, but overall the performance and price make for a fair trade.

Best Apple: 27' iMac with Retina 5K Display

For fans of Apple, the iMac 27-inch desktop model is your best bet. Sure, there are other, more powerful all-in-one PCs, but if you’re looking for a sleek computer with Apple’s operating system, this is the way to go.

With a beautiful LED Retina 5K, 5120 x 2880 pixel display, photos and videos will look crisp and sharp on the screen. Under the hood, the most powerful option comes with a 4.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor (with Turbo Boost up to 4.5GHz). It’s plenty of processing speed if you need to run heavy-duty video and photo editing software. For multi-tasking, it offers up to 64GB of built-in RAM. You’ll have to pay more for the extra RAM and that i7 processor, but if you’re looking for a high-end competitor, those costs are worth considering. Plus, the storage options go up to 2TB (solid state or Fusion Drive), so professionals with tons of large files have a place to store it all.

The computer also comes with some of Apple’s flagship accessories, like a wireless keyboard, a Bluetooth mouse, and a huge trackpad so you can use all of the same gestures you use on a Mac laptop. If you’re in the market for an all-in-one PC and are already an Apple user, this is a great option.

Best Basic: Acer Aspire S24

All-in-one PCs are expected to fulfill a wide variety of computing needs, both personal and professional, and the Acer Aspire S24 aims to meet these expectations with an everyday computer wrapped in an ultra-slim, elegant package. Running on an Intel Core i5-825OU, it contains 12 GB of RAM, UHD 620 graphics, full HD resolution, and a wireless keyboard and mouse. The built-in Qi wireless charging pad allows you to power up your devices with little effort. The screen’s in-plan switching technology will reduce the glare of ambient light and offer wide viewing angles, though 4K and touchscreen options are not available. Instead, expect features including Flickerless, which cuts down on screen flicker, and the Bluelight Shield, which reduces blue light at night that can interfere with sleep. The stylish black-and-matte-gold display can be tilted between -5 and 25 degrees. Bear in mind that this is not the computer for someone seeking a powerhouse: the hard drive might be spacious, but it can be sluggish when running apps.

Best for Business: HP EliteOne 800 G4

HP’s EliteOne 800 G4 is a solid workplace computer. Operating on Windows 10, the EliteOne comes outfitted with an Intel Pentium Gold G5400 Processor, an Intel UHD Graphics 610 card and 8GB of RAM. The display is large — it measures 23.8 inches with 1920x1080 resolution — which should suit most office needs. The computer also comes with two Full HD webcams (one front-facing and one rear-facing) for video conferencing. For its size, the desktop is surprisingly slim and light, weighing only 19.68 pounds. It’s a reliable all-in-one at a lower price tag than an iMac.

But if you’re looking for more power, the EliteOne can be easily upgraded. You can configure it with a more powerful Intel Core i3-8300 Processor, an Intel UHD Graphics 630 card, and up to 32GB of RAM. The ability to upgrade makes the EliteOne versatile to use in industries such as health and manufacturing. Overall, the EliteOne has everything workplaces need in a solid all-in-one desktop, as long as you're happy running Windows.

Want to see some more options? Check out our list of the best desktop PCs.

Best Splurge: Apple iMac Pro 27'

If you’re going to spend nearly five grand on a computer, it might as well be from Apple. Though the brand is often regarded as an overpriced player in the tech space, in this case, the iMac Pro delivers an impressive set of specs to match its eye-popping price tag.

This particular configuration places a 3.2 GHz eight-core Xeon W processor at the center for breakneck speeds under basically any circumstances. The 27-inch 5K (5120 x 2880) display is next-level crisp — though likely wasted on anyone who isn't streaming 4K video all day and night. Packed onboard is a massive 1TB of storage that’s even solid-state, which further boosts the speed that this machine is capable of.

The iMac Pro is also equipped with 32GB of RAM, too, just in case you somehow max out the processing and need to multitask even further. The machine's sleek space gray design is unique to the iMac Pro model, and they’ve even added an ultra-exclusive black keyboard and mouse to match.

What to Look for in an All-In-On PC

Best imac for gaming 2018

Screen size - With regular desktop PCs, you can just buy a new monitor if you need more screen real estate. The convenience of all-in-one PCs is a double edged sword, since you’re stuck with the size you choose. Make sure that the screen you get is big enough and has a high enough resolution.

Touch input - In addition to a mouse and keyboard, some all-in-one PCs also have touchscreens. This is a great option to look for if you prefer a touch interface, but it can also allow your PC to double as a drawing tablet if you’re a creative type. Some all-in-ones are even designed from the ground up for this purpose.

Connectivity - Since upgrading an all-in-one is usually difficult or impossible, it’s important to make sure that it has all of the ports and other connectivity you’ll ever need. Choose one with WiFi if connecting to your router via ethernet isn’t an option. Look for one with HDMI ports if you want to connect a second monitor, and don’t forget about USB ports, card readers, headphone jacks, or anything else you might want to connect to your all-in-one in the future.

The best so far (and coming soon)

By Kirk Hiner & Ric Molina | Updated June 30, 2019

I think you’ll agree 2019 is shaping up to be a great year for Mac gaming.

Sure, there’s the sheer quantity of new games released (did you know there are over 8,700 Mac games on Steam?) but what really has us excited is the high quality of the best Mac games of 2019 so far.

And you know what? The games planned for the remainder of the year are just as exciting.

PS: If you want even more top-notch games for your Mac, check out the 100 Best Mac games you can play today.

And as most “2019” guides cover older games too, we made sure this list is limited to games released in 2019 (with the exception of Leif Johnson’s excellent Mac games you need to play sreies). Enjoy!

Your Mac deserves more love!

It drives me crazy to see so many Mac users discard gaming because haters told them Macs can’t run games!

It is my mission to show you all the awesome games you can run on Mac (you too, MacBook users!). Just look at all the great Mac games from 2019 alone!

Game★ Best OverallBest for MacBookBest Value
GenreRole-PlayingCollectible CardsAction
Release date201920192019
Metascore
Our rating★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Requirements

Medium

Low

Low

Check Price

The Rest of the Best:

Subnautica: Below Zero | Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 | Dawn of Man| Tannenberg | DUSK | DiRT 4 | Imperator: Rome| Rise of Industry

Divinity: Original Sin 2
Mac Release date: 2019

Developer: Larian Studios

MacOS developer: Elverils

Metascore: 93

Divinity: Original Sin became an instant classic when it was released in 2015, and now Mac gamers can once again journey to Rivellon. Divinity: Original Sin 2 brings back the deep turn-based combat, multiplayer campaigns, and complex story, and adds some exciting new features.

Up to four players can adventure together online or locally via split-screen, the AI has been updated to be even more devious, and exploration has been opened up to provide countless ways to interact with characters, animals and the environment.

One more thing… Featuring Touch Bar and iCloud support, this is the most advanced Mac port to date. Having the direct support from Apple’s own Metal team definitely paid off!

Mac Release date: January 31, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: A 64-bit processor, OS 10.13.6 High Sierra, Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, HD Graphics 5000 or Radeon R9 M290X, 20 GB hard drive space.

Slay the Spire
Mac Release date:

Best I Mac For Gaming 2018 Words

2019

MacOS developer: Mega Crit Games

Metascore: 89

BestWhat happens when you fuse a collectible cards game with a roguelike? You get Slay the Spire, a single player deckbuilder from Mega Crit Games. Build your deck and use your cards wisely as you battle your way to the top of a spire that changes each time you play.

Slay the Spire contains over 250 cards, over 150 unique items to find and use in your quests, and an impressive host of unique encounters, boss battles, and events along the way. And if that’s not enough, the game’s custom mode allows hardcore players to mix and match various crazy-run modifiers.

Mac Release date: January 23, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.9.5, 2 GHz Processor, 4 GB RAM, 256 MB Video RAM capable of OpenGL 3.0+ support, 1 GB hard drive space.

Katana ZERO
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Askiisoft

Metascore: 83

Katana ZERO is a brutal and fast-paced action platformer from developer Askiisoft and features stylish pixel art and instant death combat. While it does tell a satisfying story, Katana ZERO shines because of its intense combat. Prepare to slash, dash, dodge and even manipulate time to destroy your enemies.

While clearly inspired by indies such as Hotline Miami or Monaco, Katana ZERO uses that same tried and true formula to deliver a gaming experience that is at a whole new level. With thoughtfully-designed levels and flexible combat abilities , this is a game you will probably finish more than once.

Mac Release date: April 18, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.11, Intel Core i5 Processor, 4 GB RAM, Intel HD Graphics 530, 200 MB hard drive space.

Total War: Three Kingdoms

Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Feral Interactive

Metascore: 85

The Total War franchise continues its quest across time and the globe, this time stopping in ancient China. Fans can expect the same tried-and-true mixture of turn-based strategy and real-time battles as they set out to become emperor.

Become one of 12 legendary warlords and build up your armies, technology, and economy through research, politics, and conquest. Do you have what it takes to create the next dynasty? If not, at least you’ll get to experience the best visuals and gameplay the series has seen yet.

Mac Release date: May 23, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: High

System Requirements: 10.14.4 64-bit processor, 2 GHz Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 2 GB Nvidia 680MX, 2 GB AMD R9 M290, 1.5 GB Intel Iris Graphics 540 or better, 52 GB hard drive space.

Tropico 6
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Limbic Entertainment

Metascore: 78

For the first time in the Tropico series, you’ll be in full charge of multiple islands, offering all new challenges as you attempt to lead a life of luxury while keeping your citizens happy with…less.

Tropico 6 keeps the series fresh by adding completely new infrastructure and transportation options, a revised research system that focuses on politics (steal what you can’t create), and the timely return of election speeches. “Address the people and make promises that you can’t possibly keep.” It’s pretty easy to get away with it, we’ve learned.

Mac Release date: June 28, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.14, a 64-bit processor, 3 GHz Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, Shader 5 compliant GPU with 2 GB RAM, AMD Radeon Rx560 Pro or better, 16 GB hard drive space.

Subnautica: Below Zero
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Unknown Worlds Entertainment

Metascore: NA

Currently available through Steam Early Access, Below Zero takes the undersea exploration of Subnautica and moves it to the Arctic region of planet 4546B. Your job is to study alien artifacts, but when disaster strikes and you’re cut off from your supply ship it’s up to you to craft equipment, scavenge for food and resources, and construct the shelters needed to survive.

Of course, the fun is in the exploration, as Subnautica: Below Zero recreates a beautiful and massive undersea world for you to discover. Just remember, plenty of danger lurks in the beauteous depths.

Mac Release date: January 30, 2019 (in Early Access).
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: A 64-bit processor, OS 10.11, Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, Intel Iris Pro 650 or better, 15 GB hard drive space.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 3
Mac Release date: 2019

Developer: Treyarch

MacOS developer: Aspyr Media

Metascore: 73

Black Ops 3 takes us 40 years further into the future to a world ravaged by climate change and unchecked technologies. The games features a four-player campaign mode with features such as cybernetic enhancements, a one-shot-kill “realistic” difficulty mode, and an unlockable “nightmare” mode featuring a new narrative and plenty of zombies.

If you’re more into multiplayer, there are plenty of enhancements and new features on that side, as well. And even better, you can purchase the Multiplayer Starter Pack if that’s all you’re interested in.

Best I Mac For Gaming 2018

One more thing… This confirms Aspyr‘s relationship with Activition is still alive and well (and hopefully will result in newer Call of Duty games on Mac!).

Mac Release date: April 4, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.13.6, 2.3 GHz Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 2 GB ATI Radeon M295X, 150 GB hard drive space.

Dawn of Man
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Madruga Works

Metascore: 74

If your complaint about sims/city builders is that they don’t start quite early enough, you’ll want to check out Dawn of Man. You’ll start with a settlement of ancient humans in the stone age and fight for survival by learning to hunt, farm, craft weapons/tools, stand up to the environment, and evolve to make it into the iron age.

That covers around 10,000 years of prehistory, but the needs will be familiar to sim fans: keep your people fed, sheltered, and safe from the elements and attacks while leading them towards the future.

Mac Release date: March 1, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.11, 2 GHz Dual Core Processor, 4 GB RAM, 1 GB Video RAM, 2 GB hard drive space.

Tannenberg
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Blackmill Games

Metascore: 69

The battles on the eastern front of WWI are regarded as some of the most brutal in history, so prepare for some intense batlles in this multiplayer shooter from the developers of Verdun. Up to 64 players can engage via four-man squads on six massive maps that provide an impressive amount of tactical freedom.

Over 50 historically accurate weapons are available to the game’s Russian, Roumanian, Austro-Hungarian, German and Bulgarian troops, including the horrors of gas warfare. Tannenberg is definitely not for those who prefer dance moves and llamas in their multiplayer games.

Mac Release date: February 13, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.11, 3.3 GHz Intel Core i5 Processor, 4 GB RAM, Geforce GTX 960M / Radeon HD 7750 or higher, 2GB video card memory, 8 GB hard drive space.

DUSK
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: New Blood Interactive

Metascore: 69

Do you miss games like the original Doom, Quake, and even Redneck Rampage? New Blood Interactive did, too, and that’s why they’ve given us DUSK, a retro first-person shooter that features shooting and bleeding in ways we haven’t since the 1990s.

DUSK gives you three distinctive campaign modes in which you’ll fight mystical backwater cultists, possessed militants and more, and plenty of ways to fight them, too: “…sickles, swords, crossbows, rifles, dual-wielded and double-barreled shotguns and incredibly necessary grenade and rocket launchers.” Of course, there’s arena multiplayer, too. It’s the ‘90s you remember.

Mac Release date: February 7, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: OS 10.11, 2.2 GHz Dual Core Processor, 2 GB RAM, 512 MB Video RAM, 2 GB hard drive space.

DiRT 4
Mac Release date: 2019

Developer: Codemasters

MacOS developer: Feral Interactive

Metascore: 78

Pavement? Pavement is for grandmas and bus drivers. If you really want to experience the thrill of racing you need DiRT 4. This latest entry in the rally racing series provides over 50 cars to drive as you tear across thrilling tracks in Australia, Spain, Wales, and more. Each and every one of them looking and running great thanks to Feral Interactive‘s top-notch Mac port.

And with the new system called Your Stage, players can generate a countless number of unique stages with the press of a button. It’s even smart enough to generate routes based on your skill level. Career mode and daily, weekly, and month-long challenges will keep you racing for quite some time.

Mac Release date: March 28, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: A 64-bit processor, OS 10.14.5, 1.8 GHz Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 1 GB NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, 2 GB AMD Radeon R9 M290, Intel Iris Pro 5200 or better, 38 GB hard drive space.

Imperator: Rome
Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Paradox Development Studio

Metascore: 81

Mac gamers have access to a new form of empire building now that Paradox Interactive has released Imperator Rome. This grand strategy title stretches across the ancient Mediterranean to provide players the chance to shape Western Civilization as they see fit.

Manage diverse populations, build up your military, choose your type of government, and invest in technologies that will help find your place amongst Alexander, Hannibal, Caesar, and other great rulers from the classical era. The deluxe edition includes additional army and ship models, on-map monuments, game events, and more.

Mac Release date: April 25, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: A 64-bit processor and operating system, OS 10.14, Intel Core i5 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 2GB Video RAM AMD Radeon R9 M380.

Rise of Industry

Best I Mac For Gaming 2018 World

Mac Release date: 2019

MacOS developer: Dapper Penguin Studios

Apple Imac For Gaming

Metascore: 67

Best Laptop For Gaming 2018

Rise of Industry is a complex strategic tycoon game that puts you in the shoes of an early 20th-century industrialist. It’s up to you, then, to supply goods and services to your towns and villages in an effort to help your chosen industry rise.

Heavily inspired by classics such as Transport Tycoon, Anno, and Factorio, Rise of Industry will let you build and manage an empire in a procedurally generated world. Gameplay is broken into two modes: career and sandbox. In either mode, you’ll have to deal with things like permits, supply and demand, trade, and the very worst aspect of running a business: customers.

Mac Release date: May 2, 2019.
Expand to see if your Mac run it

Best Imac For Gaming

Demand Level: Medium

System Requirements: A 64-bit processor and operating system, OS 10.14, 3.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor, 4 GB RAM, 512 MB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 260 or ATI Radeon HD 5670 (does not support Intel Integrated graphics cards), 1 GB hard drive space.

Grab Thimbleweed Park for free on the Epic Games Store!

Usually $19.99, you can get this excellent adventure game for free:

Filter by name2019 Best Mac GamesFilter by genreStatusFree games only?
Oxygen Not Included

Oxygen Not Included

Available on Early Access, Oxygen Not Included is a space-colony simulation from the creators of Don't Starve and Mark of the Ninja.
You’ll need to research the technology to combat hostile aliens, develop infrastructure, keep the colonists happy and sane, and—as is implied by the title—continue to provide the resources necessary for survival. With some careful planning (and a little luck), you may just help your colony thrive in this hostile environment.
Mac Release date: July 2019.

Available on Early Access

SimulationConfirmed
Frostpunk

Frostpunk

Frostpunk is a city-building survival game set in a late 1880s where rampant snowstorms and frost led to the death of millions. You are amongst of a group of survivors—workers and engineers—who managed to locate a heat generator and are using to build a new city.
You’ll need to harvest coal, wood, steel and food in this harsh environment in order to survive, but also keep your workers motivated and productive. The MacOS version of Frostpunk was about to be released when a critical bug was found. Hopefully, developer 11 bit studios is close to finding a fix and releasing Frostpunk on Mac soon.
Mac Release date: Spring 2019.

Confirmed

StrategyConfirmed
Shadow of the Tomb Raider

Shadow of the Tomb Raider

It would seem that in the countless Tomb Raider games we’ve played, we’ve yet to witness the moment when Lara Croft “becomes” the tomb raider. Well, that’s exactly what we’ll get to do when Shadow of the Tomb Raider is released for Mac by Feral Interactive.
This latest entry in the series reboot finds Lara saving the world from a Mayan apocalypse, and she’ll need to survive a massive, deadly jungle to do it. Of course, there will be tombs, as well, along with deep, underwater tunnels and even an underground city.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

ActionConfirmedNo
Life is Strange 2

Life is Strange 2

A tragic accident forces two brothers on the run. Pursued by the police and dealing with powers they don’t fully understand, Sean and Daniel Diaz attempt to flee from Seattle to their father’s hometown in Mexico.
Although the characters from the much-heralded original Life is Strange are gone, the overall tone and gameplay mechanics remain in this sequel. As Sean, you will be forced to make difficult decisions that not only affect your quest, but also the lives of those around you.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

AdventureConfirmedYes
In the Valley of Gods

In the Valley of Gods

There was a point not too long ago where it seemed every adventure game was set in either Egypt or Atlantis. If you miss those days, In the Valley of Gods returns us to a 1920s Egypt in the form of a first-person adventure.
Playing as Rashida, you will explore an ancient valley in hopes of discovering an archaeological find that will restore your disgraced name. But does fame and fortune await you, or death? Fans of Firewatch will definitely want to keep their eye on this latest game from developer Campo Santo.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

AdventureConfirmedNo
Overland

Overland

The apocalypse has come and gone, and now it’s up to you and a squad of survivors to carve out a life in what remains of North America. Or, more accurately, in what remains of a procedurally generated North America.
This strategy game from Finji features randomly generated levels filled with difficult choices for you to make. Will you be able to make the right decisions on how to acquire and utilize fuel supplies, weapons, and more as you embark on your post-apocalyptic road trip? Find out when the game is released for Mac later this year.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

StrategyConfirmedNo
System Shock

System Shock

System Shock is getting a series reboot from Nightdive Studios and they promise to maintain everything gamers loved about the original action/adventure game while providing a modern feel to attract a newer audience.
This remastered version has the blessing of Warren Spector and Paul Neurath, both of whom were involved with the game’s original release back in 1994. The question is whether you’re ready to experience the horrors of awakening from a coma in a research facility now beset with mutants and mindless cyborgs.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

ShooterConfirmedNo
Wargroove

Wargroove

Already shadow released for Mac in beta form, Wargroove is lovingly aimed directly towards fans of the early Fire Emblem and Advance Wars games.
With support for up to four players, Wargroove pits you against other factions in retro, turn-based combat. In addition to the campaign mode, Wargroove includes an in-game editor that allows players to create their own maps, cut-scenes and campaigns to share online. Whether you want to create your own story or just change the game’s rules, Wargroove gives you complete control.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Available in Beta

StrategyBetaNo
Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds, the first ever game funded on Fig.co, is unique-looking open-world exploration game about a solar system trapped in an endless time loop. The game features fully simulated planets you'll need to explore in your search for answers.
Problem is, you have only 20 minutes before your planet is destroyed. Similar to the cult-classic Zelda Majora's Mask, you'll need to use what you learn from every playthrough to eventually save the universe. Outer Wilds has been delayed beyond its planned 2018 release, but it looks to be worth the wait for adventure gamers.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

AdventureConfirmedNo
Age of Wonders: Planetfall

Age of Wonders: Planetfall

This next entry in Triumph Studios’ Age of Wonders series takes its signature empire building and turn-based combat into outer space for the first time.
The premise holds true to previous entries, however, as you’ll find yourself in a fallen galactic empire from which you must emerge to build a better future for your people. Whether you prefer the deep single-player campaign or the online, hotseat or asynchronous multiplayer options, you’ll have to decide whether to ride conquest, diplomacy, or “doomsday technologies” to victory.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

StrategyConfirmedNo
Warcraft 3: Reforged

Warcraft 3: Reforged

Azeroth will be reborn when Warcraft 3: Reforged is released later this year. A re-imagining of 2002’s real-time strategy Warcraft 3: Reign of Chaos, Reforged will feature new visuals, a social component for multiplayer matchmaking, and plenty more.
Orcs, humans, night elves and the undead will battle through vast campaigns with over four hours of reshot cut-scenes. Warcraft 3: Reforged offers over 60 single-player missions in which combatants and strategists can re-experience the fall of Lordaeron, the rise of the Lich King, and more.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

StrategyConfirmedNo
Team Sonic Racing

Team Sonic Racing

We may not yet know much about Apple’s newly announced Apple Arcade, but we do know that Team Sonic Racing will be amongst the games available.
This arcade racer lets you choose from 15 Sonic characters as you speed through intense, multiplayer tracks. Customize and upgrade your cars, pick up and use 14 offensive and defensive power-ups, and try to beat up to 11 other racers. Various multiplayer racing options will be available—including online and local co-op for team racing—as well as an adventure mode to introduce you to the characters and their abilities.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

RacingConfirmedNo
Fortnite: Save the World

Fortnite: Save the World

Believe it or not, Fortnite Battle Royal is just one mode in the Fornite package, the other being Save the World. Unlike the PvP action of Fortnite: Battle Royal, Save the World is the co-op, sandbox survival mode of Fortnite.
Billed as a cross between Minecraft and Left 4 Dead, Save the World tasks players with working together to explore the environment, scavenge materials, craft weapons, and build forts to help fight off waves of monsters. Fortnite is available now via paid early-access, with the official release for all platforms scheduled for this year.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

ShooterConfirmedNo
Phoenix Point

Phoenix Point

Phoenix Point is a new strategy game from the creators of the original XCOM. And like the XCOM reboot, Phoenix Point will offer tons of customization through soldier development and weapon research/modification.
Battles will take place in procedural, destructive environments spread across a large number of diverse missions. Backer builds (alpha) are available now, allowing you to get some practice in before the game’s official Mac release later this year.
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

StrategyConfirmedNo
Griftlands

Griftlands

This rather unique sci-fi RPG is coming to us from Klei Entertainment, and as is implied by the title, Griftlands will have you negotiating money, loyalty and your own morality as you seek to make your fortune within the game’s flowing economy.
A full cast of characters are available for you to control and set up as companions. These characters will also engage in turn-based combat where the goal is to subdue, not kill, them. Kind of a refreshing approach these days, really. Killing people can lead to mechanical repercussions down the road, and NPCs remember what you did to them in the past.”
Mac Release date: Sometime 2019.

Confirmed

Role-PlayingConfirmedNo
A lot of MacOS games are coming out in 2019. A whole lot. Thus, we have to be very selective in choosing which games make this list. So, how did we pull these particular games to the top? By focusing on these criteria:

Native MacOS support

Obviously, the game has to run natively on macOS; no Wine, Parallels or Bootcamp needed.

Hype level

Here’s where we get more subjective, but rest assured each of these games has something very important going for it. It could be a much-anticipated sequel to a popular Mac game, it could be the developer’s name/pedigree, or it could be that we just really like the concept.

Regardless of the reason, we’re buying into the hype for each of these titles and agree they should be on your radar.

Confirmed Mac version

It’s always tempting to hype games that could, mayble, make it to MacOS. If a developer has always supported MacOS for all of its previous games, it should support MacOS for its latest game too, right? Not always.

For that reason, we prefer not to get your hopes up and only cover games that have been officially announced for Mac or directly confirmed to Mac Gamer HQ via email.

Best 2018 Gaming Computer Builds

There’s an awful lot to consider here, we know, but that’s a good thing. Whether you were waiting for a new entry in your favorite genre or looking to branch out into something different, the new Mac games of 2019 will give you plenty of options. Go ahead and get hyped for a few long-awaited sequels, get ready to dig into a few games that your Windows-using friends are already playing, or get something completely new when it becomes available.

If you are enjoying (or waiting for) a new game that we didn’t cover here, be sure to let us know. We’re always on the lookout for the next big game!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission (this is how we pay the bills). This commission comes at no additional cost to you.

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