How to Play Doom 1 2 and 3 on Apple Silicon Mac

Playing classic Doom games on Apple Silicon Macs is easier than you might think, thanks to various source ports and community efforts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get Doom 1, 2, and 3 running smoothly on your modern Mac.

How to Run Doom 1 and 2 on Apple Silicon Macs

Installing GZDoom

To play Doom 1 and 2 on your Apple Silicon Mac, you need to install GZDoom, a popular source port that enhances the original Doom engine with modern features.

1. Install Homebrew: Ensure you have Homebrew installed and updated on your Mac. Homebrew is a package manager that simplifies the installation of software on macOS.
2. Install GZDoom: Open Terminal and run the following command to install GZDoom:

   brew install --cask gzdoom
   

3. Purchase Doom 1 and 2: Buy Doom 1 and 2 from an authorized digital store like GOG.com. This will provide you with the necessary game data files.

Extracting Game Data Files

After purchasing the games, you need to extract the game data files from the installers.

1. Download the Extractor Tool: Use an extractor tool to extract the game files from the GOG.com installer. You can find tutorials on how to do this online.
2. Extract the Files: Extract the .wad files (e.g., doom.wad or doom2.wad) from the installer.
3. Copy the WAD Files: Copy the extracted .wad files and paste them into the following directory:

   /Users/username/Library/Application Support/gzdoom
   

Launching GZDoom

1. Launch GZDoom: Open GZDoom and select the game you want to play from the list of available .wad files. Click “OK” to start playing.

How to Run Doom 3 on Apple Silicon Macs

Doom 3 requires a different approach due to its 32-bit nature and incompatibility with modern macOS versions.

Using dhewm3 Source Port

1. Download and Install dhewm3: Download the signed and notarized build of dhewm3, a 64-bit source port for Doom 3. This is the best way to play Doom 3 on Apple Silicon Macs.
2. Purchase Doom 3: Buy Doom 3 to obtain the necessary game data files.
3. Extract the Game Data: Use an extractor tool to extract the game files from the installer. You will need the base folder from the extracted files.
4. Copy the Base Folder: Copy the base folder and navigate to the following directory:

   /Users/username/Library/Application Support/
   

   Create a folder called dhewm3 and paste the base folder inside it.

5. Launch dhewm3: Open the dhewm3.app and enjoy playing Doom 3.

Additional Tips for Enhanced Performance

Using Vulkan for Better Performance

For better performance, especially with mods like Brutal Doom, consider using Vulkan. This can significantly improve frame rates on Apple Silicon Macs.

1. Enable Vulkan: In GZDoom, go to the settings and enable Vulkan as the rendering backend. This will utilize the MoltenVK translation layer, which can provide higher frame rates.

Accessing More Mods and Features

GZDoom offers extensive mod support, which can enhance your gaming experience.

1. Explore Mod Communities: Look into mod communities and forums for additional content and modifications that can be used with GZDoom.
2. Install Mods: Follow the instructions provided by the mod creators to install and configure mods within GZDoom.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the classic Doom games on your Apple Silicon Mac with modern features and improved performance.