Apple’s journey into the gaming universe has just hit a massive milestone. Cyberpunk 2077, one of the most graphically demanding and ambitious role-playing games of our time, is officially launching on macOS on July 17, 2025. This news marks a bold move for both Apple and CD Projekt Red as they aim to reshape the perception of gaming on Mac.
In this detailed post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Cyberpunk 2077’s release on Mac, from hardware requirements to graphics optimization, and how it could signal a turning point for Apple Silicon in the gaming world.
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🚀 Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition Coming to macOS – What’s Included?
On July 17, gamers using Apple Silicon Macs will be able to experience Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition, which is the most complete version of the game yet. This edition features:
- 🕹️ The base game of Cyberpunk 2077
- 🎮 The Phantom Liberty expansion, a massive DLC adding new quests and areas
- 🔧 The Patch 2.3 update, introducing quality-of-life improvements, new vehicles, updated gameplay mechanics, and enhanced photo modes
- 🔄 Cross-progression, allowing players to continue their journey across devices
The game will be downloadable via the Mac App Store, Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG.com, giving Mac users flexibility in where they want to buy and play it.
🖥️ Apple Silicon Compatibility – Which Macs Can Run It?
One of the biggest talking points is that Cyberpunk 2077 has been specifically optimized for Apple Silicon chips. CD Projekt Red has worked in close coordination with Apple to ensure smooth and stable performance on these machines.
✅ Minimum Requirements:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chip | Apple M1, M2, M3, or M4 series (Apple Silicon) |
| RAM | Minimum 16 GB of unified memory |
| Operating System | Latest version of macOS |
| Storage | Recommended: SSD with at least 100 GB free |
The game will not support Intel-based Macs, making it an Apple Silicon exclusive.
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🎮 Optimized Graphics for Mac – MetalFX, FSR, and More
Apple and CD Projekt Red didn’t just port the game—they rebuilt it for Mac using Metal, Apple’s graphics API. This ensures that Cyberpunk 2077 will take full advantage of Apple’s hardware, especially the powerful M-series chips.
Here are some of the major graphical technologies that make this possible:
⚙️ For This Mac Preset
A special preset called “For This Mac” will auto-configure the game’s graphics based on your specific chip model, ensuring the best balance between performance and visuals.
🌈 HDR & Path Tracing
If you’re using M3 Max or M4 Ultra chips, you’ll get full support for path tracing, a rendering technique that allows for hyper-realistic lighting and reflections. Combined with HDR support, Cyberpunk 2077 on Macs paired with Apple’s Pro Display XDR or MacBook Pro XDR screens will offer an ultra-immersive visual experience.
🧠 MetalFX & AMD FSR
The game will support MetalFX upscaling as well as AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR). These tools help improve FPS and visual smoothness while maintaining high image quality—even when ray tracing is enabled.
🔊 Spatial Audio & AirPods Pro
Apple’s immersive spatial audio technology is fully supported in this release. If you own AirPods Pro or AirPods Max, you’ll experience directional audio and head tracking, making Night City feel even more alive.
💡 Why This Matters: A New Era for Mac Gaming?
Traditionally, Mac has never been the go-to platform for gamers. However, with the consistent performance gains in the M-series chips, Apple is aggressively making a case that their machines are gaming-capable.
Releasing a game as demanding and high-profile as Cyberpunk 2077 is a statement—Apple is ready to play in the big leagues.
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🔍 What Makes the Ultimate Edition Special?
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the download, here’s a closer look at what Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Editionoffers:
🔓 Phantom Liberty Expansion
This is more than just DLC. Phantom Liberty expands the game world significantly, adds deep character arcs, and introduces espionage-driven missions set in Dogtown—a lawless area within Night City.
🎞️ Patch 2.3 Features
- New vehicles
- Updated AI behavior
- Additional character customization
- Redesigned photo mode with filters and dynamic lighting controls
🔄 Cross-Progression
Started the game on Windows or console? No problem. You can pick up right where you left off using your Apple ID or game account thanks to cross-progression support.
🛍️ Where to Buy Cyberpunk 2077 for Mac?
The game will be available on:
- Mac App Store – Fully native macOS purchase
- Steam – Cloud saves and mods support
- Epic Games Store – Additional discounts for existing users
- GOG.com – DRM-free version with cross-platform support
📊 Performance Benchmarks?
As of now, Apple and CD Projekt Red have not released official FPS benchmarks for Cyberpunk 2077 on Mac. However, based on early developer feedback and test builds shown at WWDC 2024, the game reportedly runs smoothly at 60+ FPS on M3 Max chips with FSR and MetalFX enabled.
🧠 Pro Tip: Prep Your Mac for Cyberpunk 2077
Here are a few things you should do before downloading:
- ✅ Make sure your macOS is updated to the latest version
- ✅ Free up at least 100 GB of disk space
- ✅ Use a high-speed SSD (internal preferred)
- ✅ Have a game controller ready for better experience
- ✅ Use AirPods Pro for spatial audio immersion
🎯 Final Thoughts – Mac Gaming Might Finally Be Real
Cyberpunk 2077 arriving on Mac isn’t just a game release—it’s a milestone. It shows that Apple is serious about bringing AAA titles to macOS and that developers are ready to follow.
If the game performs as promised, this could be a major turning point for Apple’s presence in the gaming industry. And for gamers who already love their Mac for productivity, they might finally be able to enjoy a world-class gaming experience without switching to Windows.
