Can you play Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 on Mac?
Yes, you can play Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 on a Mac in 2025. The game does not have a native Apple silicon version. To run it, you must use a Windows compatibility layer. The developer, Sandfall Interactive, has officially partnered with CodeWeavers to support the game through CrossOver. This is the recommended and most reliable method for Mac users.
Compatibility Status
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is officially compatible with Mac via CrossOver. This partnership means the developers and CodeWeavers have worked together to ensure the game runs correctly within the CrossOver software. It is not a native port, but an officially supported Windows translation layer. You cannot run this game directly on macOS or through Apple's Game Porting Toolkit without using CrossOver.
Performance on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4)
Performance is good on modern Apple silicon Macs. The game is a turn based RPG, which is less demanding on hardware than real time action games. On M series chips from M1 to M4, you can expect stable frame rates at standard resolutions. Using an M3 Pro, Max, or Ultra chip, or the newer M4, will allow you to increase graphical settings. The game should run without major issues on base model M1 and M2 Macs, though you may need to use medium settings for the best balance of visual quality and performance. Systems with 16GB of RAM or more are recommended.
Installation Steps
You need to purchase two items: the game itself from a digital store, and the CrossOver software from the CodeWeavers website. The game is available on stores like Steam. After buying CrossOver, install it on your Mac. Within CrossOver, you will create a new "bottle," which is a contained Windows environment. You then install the Windows version of your game store, such as Steam, into that bottle. Finally, you log into your store account within CrossOver and install Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as you would on a Windows PC. The official CrossOver website provides detailed guides for this process.
Tips for Best Experience
- Update your macOS to the latest stable version for the best overall system performance.
- Always use the latest version of CrossOver. Updates often include fixes for specific games.
- When creating your bottle in CrossOver, select the latest version of Windows it offers, like Windows 11.
- Install necessary components. CrossOver may prompt you to install components like DirectX or the .NET framework. Allow it to do so.
- Start with the game's default graphics settings. You can increase them gradually if performance is good.
- Close other unused applications on your Mac to free up system memory for the game.
Common Issues
A common issue is the game failing to launch. This is usually fixed by ensuring all required Windows components are installed in your CrossOver bottle. If you experience graphical glitches, try changing the graphics API in the game's settings. Switching between DirectX 11 and 12 can resolve this. Audio problems are less common but can sometimes be addressed by adjusting audio settings within the CrossOver bottle configuration. If the game runs slowly, first lower the in game resolution and shadow quality. Remember that performance depends heavily on your specific Mac model and its hardware capabilities.
