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    Macs have a Gaming Advantage over ARM PC's

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    Many PC manufacturers, following Apple’s lead from 2020, are transitioning from Intel processors to ARM chips to enhance performance and energy efficiency. However, while Apple’s shift to ARM has been relatively seamless, the transition for Windows users has been far more challenging, especially for gamers. Reports indicate that Windows ARM PCs are struggling with compatibility issues for popular games.

    Windows ARM PCs and Gaming Compatibility Problems
    A recent report by The Wall Street Journal highlights a significant problem faced by users of Windows PCs powered by Qualcomm ARM chips: many games, including major titles like League of Legends and Fortnite, do not work properly on ARM-based systems. This issue is considered widespread, frustrating gamers who account for approximately 15% of the global laptop market and drive substantial revenue.

    Historically, Windows has been seen as the go-to platform for gaming due to its flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of titles. However, the move from x86 to ARM architecture threatens to change that, as the ARM version of Windows struggles to run certain software and games smoothly.

    Why Are These Games Failing on ARM?
    Like macOS, Windows ARM has a built-in translation tool to allow x86-based apps to run on ARM systems. While this is a solution for non-native apps, the translated software often suffers from performance drops, bugs, and other issues. One key factor in these issues is the anti-cheat software used in many online games, which can cause incompatibility even if the game itself runs on ARM.

    Qualcomm, the company behind many ARM chips for Windows PCs, is aware of these issues and is working with developers to improve game compatibility. However, given the relatively small number of ARM PC users, gaming studios are not prioritizing ARM support at this time.
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    Apple Gains an Edge in the Gaming Market
    While gaming on Macs has traditionally lagged behind Windows, Apple’s ARM-based Apple Silicon chips have given the company an opportunity to prove its hardware’s gaming potential. Apple has actively worked with major game developers to bring AAA games, such as Resident Evil and Assassin’s Creed, to iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.

    In July, Apple held a special event focused on promoting the gaming capabilities of its devices, showcasing how its Apple Silicon chips can handle high-performance gaming. Although the gaming landscape is still largely dominated by Windows, Apple may finally be positioning itself as a competitor in the space.

    It seems as though the transition to ARM is finally bringing gaming back to the Mac.
     
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