Can the 2024 Apple MacBook Pro M4 Play Top Games Like GTA V, FIFA, Red Dead Redemption & More? A Full Gaming Performance Breakdown
- Gavin P. Tate
- Jun 13
- 5 min read
When most people think of gaming laptops, the Apple MacBook Pro is not usually the first option that comes to mind. Traditionally, MacBooks have been known for their sleek design, professional-grade software performance, and long battery life—not gaming. However, the launch of the 2024 Apple MacBook Pro with the new M4 chip has sparked renewed interest and questions among tech enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.
One of the most common questions is:"Can the 2024 MacBook Pro M4 play top PC and console-level games like GTA V, FIFA, Red Dead Redemption 2, Call of Duty: Warzone, or Fortnite?"
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the true gaming potential of this latest MacBook model, including real performance expectations, compatibility with popular titles, and ways to run Windows-exclusive games on macOS.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone considering this MacBook as a multi-purpose machine, this article will help you make an informed decision.
Get the 2024 Apple MacBook Pro M4 here 👉 Get it on Amazon 🔗 💻
The Hardware: 2024 MacBook Pro (M4 Chip) Overview
Before jumping into game-specific performance, let’s briefly cover what the 2024 MacBook Pro (14.2-inch) actually offers under the hood:
M4 Chip with 10-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU
16GB Unified Memory (Upgradeable to 32GB or more)
512GB Fast SSD Storage
Liquid Retina XDR Display (3024x1964 Resolution)
macOS Sonoma with full support for Metal 3 graphics API
On paper, this is one of the most powerful MacBooks Apple has ever released. The new M4 GPU architecture provides far better gaming potential compared to older Intel or even M1/M2 models. But how does this translate to actual gaming performance?
1. Can the MacBook Pro Play GTA V?
Grand Theft Auto V is a legendary title that many users want to play on every machine they own—including their MacBook Pro. Unfortunately, GTA V has never been officially released for macOS. So the only ways to play this on the MacBook are:
Parallels Desktop (Virtualized Windows 11 ARM):Users report GTA V running at 720p–1080p on medium settings with 30–60 FPS. It's playable, but there is noticeable performance overhead compared to native Windows machines.
CrossOver (Wine-Based Emulator):GTA V can run, but performance varies wildly and is not as reliable as Parallels.
Cloud Gaming Services (e.g., GeForce NOW):The easiest and most reliable method. You can stream GTA V in full quality without taxing your MacBook hardware.
Verdict: Possible, but not native. Good via cloud gaming.
2. Can You Play FIFA (EA FC 24) on MacBook Pro?
FIFA 24 (now called EA Sports FC) is another Windows-exclusive title. There’s no native Mac version, and Boot Camp is no longer an option on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M4 chips).
Parallels Desktop:It is technically possible to install and run FIFA 24, but performance won’t be competitive compared to Windows PCs. Expect low-to-medium settings and sub-optimal frame rates.
Cloud Gaming (Xbox Cloud or GeForce NOW):A smoother solution for this title.
Verdict: Possible through cloud gaming or Parallels, but not a top experience natively.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2 on MacBook Pro
One of the most graphically demanding games of the last decade, Red Dead Redemption 2 demands serious GPU power.
Parallels or CrossOver:Playable only on low settings at 720p resolution with frame drops likely.
Cloud Gaming:Best option for this title—GeForce NOW offers ultra settings with no Mac performance penalty.
Verdict: Possible—but only enjoyable via cloud gaming services.
4. Call of Duty: Warzone on MacBook Pro
Call of Duty: Warzone and other COD titles are not officially supported on macOS or ARM versions of Windows, which means virtualization has severe limitations.
Cloud Gaming Services:Currently the only practical method to play Warzone on Mac without frustration.
Verdict: Not worth attempting natively—cloud only.
5. Fortnite on MacBook Pro
This is where things get exciting.
Fortnite runs natively on macOS and is optimized for Metal 3 on Apple Silicon.
On the M4 MacBook Pro, Fortnite can run at high or even ultra settings at 1080p+ with smooth 60+ FPS performance.
Verdict: One of the best native MacBook gaming experiences available today.
Other Popular Games You Can Enjoy on the 2024 MacBook Pro M4
✅ Minecraft:
Fully optimized for macOS; runs smoothly at max settings.
✅ League of Legends:
Native macOS support with excellent frame rates and responsiveness.
✅ Baldur’s Gate 3:
A great RPG that runs wonderfully on Mac M-series chips, including M4.
How to Play Windows-Only Games on MacBook Pro M4
While many top-tier titles don’t offer macOS versions, Apple users have workarounds:
1. Parallels Desktop
Installs Windows 11 ARM.
Lets you run GTA V, FIFA, etc.
Performance is playable but not exceptional.
2. CrossOver (Wine Layer)
Translates Windows API calls to macOS Metal.
Works for lighter games; heavier titles like RDR2 are hit or miss.
3. Cloud Gaming (Recommended)
GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Boosteroid allow you to stream AAA games without stressing your hardware.
MacBook Pro becomes a gaming machine instantly—just add a controller or mouse.
Gaming Accessories to Improve the MacBook Pro Gaming Experience
If you want the best out of your Mac gaming setup:
External Game Controllers (PlayStation via Bluetooth) Get here on Amazon
Cooling Stands to Prevent Thermal Throttling Get here on Amazon
USB-C Hubs/Docks (like the CalDigit TS3 Plus) for multiple peripherals Get here on Amazon
External Displays for a larger screen gaming setup Get here on Amazon
Why MacBook Pro Still Isn’t a Gaming Laptop Replacement
Despite the M4 chip’s impressive leap, the MacBook Pro M4 is not a direct replacement for a dedicated gaming laptop or desktop because:
No native support for DirectX 12 or Vulkan APIs.
Most major AAA titles do not offer native Mac versions.
Virtualization and emulation always reduce gaming performance.
Some multiplayer anti-cheat systems don’t work in Parallels/CrossOver.
For occasional gaming and casual titles, the MacBook Pro is excellent. But if gaming is your main goal, a Windows machine will always offer better native performance.
Who Should Buy the MacBook Pro M4 for Gaming?
✔️ Professionals who game occasionally on the side.
✔️ Mac users who enjoy native games like Fortnite, Minecraft, Baldur’s Gate 3, LoL.
✔️ Those willing to use cloud gaming services to access Windows AAA games.
✔️ People who want one machine for productivity, creative work, and light gaming.
Who Should Avoid It for Gaming?
❌ Hardcore gamers wanting max settings on AAA titles.
❌ Esports players needing the lowest latency for competitive shooters.
❌ Users expecting native support for Windows-exclusive heavy games.
Get the 2024 Apple MacBook Pro M4 here 👉 Get it on Amazon 🔗 💻
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 MacBook Pro M4 Good for Gaming?
If you're looking for a sleek, high-performance laptop that excels in work, creativity, and occasional gaming, the 2024 MacBook Pro M4 is the best MacBook ever for gaming—but it still can't replace a dedicated Windows gaming PC or laptop.
That said, with cloud gaming booming and native support for popular titles like Fortnite and Minecraft, this MacBook bridges the gap better than any previous model. If your gaming needs are casual or cloud-based, you won't be disappointed.
