Experienced 'Cyberpunk 2077' on Mac, and the gameplay bears striking resemblance to PC gaming
In a groundbreaking move, Cyberpunk 2077, the critically acclaimed action RPG, has been optimized for Apple Silicon Macs. The game's unique graphic preset, dubbed "For this Mac," dynamically adjusts the game's settings and resolution based on the specific Apple Silicon Mac model, ensuring a seamless balance between performance and visual quality.
On lower-end models like the M1 MacBook Pro (16GB RAM), the preset targets lower resolutions around 1440x900 or 1600x900 with a frame rate of about 30 FPS, prioritizing stable performance over ultra-high visuals. On recommended models such as those with an M3 Pro chip and 18GB RAM, the preset enables higher resolutions (1800x1125 up to Full HD 1920x1080) with a target frame rate of 60 FPS, delivering better visual fidelity alongside smooth gameplay.
For high-end models (like M4 and M3 Max MacBook Pros with larger GPU cores and more RAM), the preset leverages advanced optimization techniques such as Metal API support, Apple’s Tile-Based Deferred Rendering, and MetalFX upscaling to maximize graphical quality and performance, achieving frame rates as high as 105 FPS at 1080p depending on the configuration.
The preset's technical aspects include native integration with Metal API and Apple’s Tile-Based Deferred Rendering architecture, which reduces CPU overhead and optimizes GPU workload, improving efficiency on Apple Silicon GPUs. Memory traffic is minimized, and frame processing is overlapped in the rendering pipeline, boosting GPU efficiency. MetalFX upscaling and AMD FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) upscaling with frame generation are used to enhance performance while maintaining visual sharpness.
Calibrated HDR output is optimized for Apple XDR displays and compatible external HDR monitors, augmenting color vibrancy and contrast. The preset enables smooth gameplay on Macs with Apple silicon from M1 (minimum 16GB RAM) to the latest M4 and M3 Ultra chips, covering MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, iMac, and Mac Studio models.
Even at 4K, playable frame rates can be achieved on the MacBook Pro 16 with M4 Pro, but with minimal ray tracing and below 40 fps gameplay. Turning off VSync improves the game's performance on Mac. The Mac version of Cyberpunk 2077 is essentially the PC version. MetalFX upscaling is used to make the game look better on Mac.
However, older MacBook Air models with only 8GB of memory cannot run Cyberpunk 2077. On an M4 MacBook Air 13, the game runs at medium settings with no ray tracing, managing to achieve a little over 40 fps. The Mac mini with M4 Pro and Cyberpunk 2077's performance has not been tested.
In summary, the "For this Mac" preset customizes Cyberpunk 2077’s graphics settings per Mac model to deliver an optimal blend of performance and visuals, scaling resolution, frame rate, and rendering quality based on the hardware in use. Lower-end Macs receive settings that prioritize stable frame rates at reduced resolution, while more powerful Macs benefit from higher resolutions and frame rates with sophisticated rendering techniques to preserve image quality.
- The optimization for Cyberpunk 2077 on Apple Silicon Macs extends to the realm of technology, leveraging advanced techniques like Metal API support, Tile-Based Deferred Rendering, and MetalFX upscaling for high-end models.
- Gizmodo might be interested in the future of tech gadgets, such as smartphones, as well as the latest developments in technology, like the optimized version of Cyberpunk 2077 for Apple Silicon Macs, which offers tailored graphics settings for various Mac models.
- Tech enthusiasts with M4 and M3 Max MacBook Pros may find pleasure in the crisp visuals and high frame rates achieved by the "For this Mac" preset, which utilizes MetalFX upscaling, Metal API, and other advanced rendering techniques to deliver an exceptional gaming experience on these high-end devices.
