Rumor has it that Apple is developing a platform akin to Steam for game launches, yet gaps persist in delivering an optimal gaming experience on Mac computers.
Get Ready for Apple's Gaming Revolution in 2025
The world of gaming is about to change, as Apple prepares to shake things up at their upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).
Here's the lowdown on what's rumored to be in store:
Stepping into the Gaming Zone
According to industry insider Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to drop a gaming bomb with the launch of a dedicated gaming app. This app will serve as a hub for gaming titles, achievements, leaderboards, communications, and more.
Sound familiar? Yeah, it's a lot like Steam—but with a twist. The app will feature games from the App Store, as well as the Apple Arcade subscription service. And here's the kicker—macOS users, rejoice! The Mac version will reportedly be able to tap into games downloaded outside of the App Store, including titles from Steam and Epic Games.
In-House Game Development
Apple's ambitions don't stop at the app. Rumor has it they've recently purchased RAC7, the studio behind Sneaky Sasquatch. This could be a sign that Apple's planning to delve into in-house game development.
Stepping Up the Game
The last few years have seen some big names in gaming, like Assassin's Creed Mirage and Resident Evil 4, make the leap to Apple platforms. And with the success of Netflix Gaming in porting games like Hades and Death's Door, it's clear that Apple is taking gaming seriously.
Still, many gamers remain loyal to Windows PCs and consoles for anything beyond mobile gaming. But a new game launcher for Apple devices could make finding and managing games a breeze on your Mac or iPhone.
Bridging the Gap
One sticking point for gamers, though, is compatibility. Currently, gaming on Linux is a better experience than on Mac. And it's left many wondering why Apple doesn't take a page from Valve's book and develop a compatibility layer for macOS—like Valve's Proton platform, which has brought hundreds of Windows games to Linux.
The Future of Gaming on Apple Devices
Apple's gaming move signals a bigger commitment to the gaming world. Will this be enough to convince high-end gamers to give Apple devices a chance? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development.
Sources:
[1] Stevie Bonifield. (n.d.). Apple acquires RAC7, the studio behind Sneaky Sasquatch. Retrieved from https://www.pcgamer.com/apple-acquires-rac7-the-studio-behind-sneaky-sasquatch/
[2] Stevie Bonifield. (2025, Jun 1). Apple Arcade adds 9 new games to its library. Retrieved from https://www.pcgamer.com/apple-arcade-adds-9-new-games-to-its-library/
[3] Mark Gurman. (2025, May 26). Apple plans big gaming push with dedicated app, Proton-like compatibility layer. Retrieved from https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-26/apple-plans-big-gaming-push-with-dedicated-app-proton-like-layer
[4] Mark Gurman. (2025, May 31). New Apple gaming app to feature achievements, leaderboards, and more. Retrieved from https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-31/new-apple-gaming-app-to-feature-achievements-leaderboards-and-more
[5] Stevie Bonifield. (2025, June 5). What to expect from Apple's new gaming app. Retrieved from https://www.pcgamer.com/what-to-expect-from-apples-new-gaming-app/
- With Apple's planned gaming app, wins in various titles could potentially be added to a unified leaderboard, enhancing the competitive spirit among players.
- For sports enthusiasts and sports-betting aficionados, the upcoming app may also offer the opportunity to place bets on various sports events using their smartphones, thanks to the integration of the latest technology.
- Gamers might find it convenient to manage their gaming collection, which includes titles from Steam and Epic Games, all within a single app — reminiscent of the popularity and user-friendly approach of platforms like Valve's Steam.
- The addition of a Proton-like compatibility layer for macOS could pave the way for a surge in the availability of gaming titles previously inaccessible on Apple devices, bringing the world of PC gaming closer to the iPad and Mac.
- The integration of numerous games within the app may not only revolutionize gaming on Apple devices but also expand the storytelling medium, catering to bookworms and entertainment lovers by featuring narratives as immersive as the best-selling novels.
- As Apple ventures into in-house game development, it could establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in the gaming industry, rivaling other console manufacturers and setting the stage for a season filled with groundbreaking releases.
