Can You Play Civilization VI on Mac?
Yes, you can play Civilization VI on a Mac. As of 2026, the game is officially supported and runs on Apple Silicon Macs using Rosetta 2 translation. It is a native Mac application available through the Mac App Store and other digital storefronts. The game receives updates alongside the Windows version, including expansions and leader packs.
Compatibility Status
Civilization VI is a Universal 2 binary. This means the installer contains code for both Intel-based Macs and Apple Silicon Macs (M-series). On Apple Silicon Macs, the game runs using Rosetta 2. It is not a native Apple Silicon application. The game is compatible with macOS Sonoma and later versions. For the best experience, you should have the latest stable version of macOS installed.
Performance on M1, M2, M3, and M4 Macs
Performance is generally very good on Apple Silicon Macs. The game's turn-based nature is less demanding on constant frame rates than fast-paced action games.
- M1 Macs: The base M1 chip runs Civilization VI well at moderate settings and resolutions. You can expect smooth gameplay, especially in the early and mid game. Late-game turns with many AI players may process more slowly.
- M2, M3, and M4 Macs: These newer chips provide a better experience. You can use higher graphical settings, play at higher resolutions, and experience faster end-of-turn processing. The performance jump is most noticeable on M3 Pro, Max, or Ultra chips and the equivalent M4 variants, which handle huge, late-game maps with many units and city-states more comfortably.
All Apple Silicon Macs will generate heat and use fan noise during long play sessions, as the game is CPU intensive during AI turn calculation. Playing on a MacBook Air is possible, but a MacBook Pro or desktop Mac will sustain higher performance for longer.
Installation Steps
You can purchase and install Civilization VI from the Mac App Store or from other digital stores like Steam or the Aspyr Store. The installation process is standard. Download the installer from your chosen store, run it, and follow the on-screen prompts. The game requires a significant amount of storage space, especially with all expansion packs installed. Ensure you have at least 15 GB free, with more recommended for expansions and saves.
Tips for the Best Experience
To get the most stable and smooth performance from Civilization VI on your Mac, follow these tips.
- Keep macOS Updated: Always install the latest official macOS updates. These often include important graphics and Rosetta 2 improvements.
- Update the Game: Launch the game through your store client (like the Mac App Store or Steam) to ensure it updates to the latest version. Developer patches fix bugs and improve compatibility.
- Manage Graphical Settings: Start with the graphics settings set to "Medium" or the default recommended preset. You can increase them gradually. Key settings to adjust for performance are Anti-Aliasing, Shadow Quality, and Water Quality. Reducing these can improve frame rates.
- Close Other Applications: Before playing, close other unused applications, especially web browsers and video streaming apps. This frees up system memory and CPU power for the game.
- Monitor Heat: Ensure your Mac has good ventilation. Do not block vents, and consider using a laptop stand if you are on a MacBook. High internal temperatures can lead to thermal throttling, which slows performance.
Common Issues
Some players may encounter these issues.
- Long Load Times: Initial loading of the game and starting a new map can take time. This is normal. Using a faster SSD helps.
- Slower Late-Game Turns: As the map fills with units and cities, the AI's turn processing time will increase. This is a limitation of the game's design and happens on all computers. Using smaller map sizes or fewer AI opponents can reduce this.
- Rosetta 2 First-Time Setup: The first time you launch the game on an Apple Silicon Mac, macOS will need to install Rosetta 2. A dialog box will appear. You must click "Install" to proceed. This is a one-time process.
- Launch Crashes: If the game crashes on launch, verify the game files through your store client (Steam has a "Verify Integrity of Game Files" option). Also, check that your macOS is up to date.
- Visual Glitches: Minor graphical artifacts are rare but possible. Setting graphics to a lower preset usually resolves this. Make sure your game is fully updated.
