Play Quake 1 2 3 4 on Apple Silicon Macs

To play the Quake series on Apple Silicon Macs, you need to use modern engine ports that are compatible with the latest hardware. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Running Quake 1 on Apple Silicon Macs

Obtaining the Game Data

To play Quake 1, you first need to obtain the game data. You can purchase Quake 1 from platforms like GOG.com or Steam. For the enhanced version, download it directly from Steam or GOG.com.

Using vkQuake

vkQuake is a modern port of the original Quake engine, optimized for Apple Silicon Macs. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Download vkQuake: Get the signed and notarized build of vkQuake from its GitHub page or other trusted sources.
2. Install vkQuake: Open the downloaded vkQuake.dmg file and drag the app to your Applications folder.
3. Extract Game Files: If you purchased from GOG.com, use the Extractor tool to extract the game data files. Specify the Quake 1 game file as your Input File and your Downloads folder as your output directory.
4. Place Game Files: Locate the id1 folder in the output folder and place it next to vkQuake.app in your Applications folder.
5. Launch vkQuake: Open vkQuake and enjoy the game.

Using the Enhanced Version

If you have the enhanced version from Steam or GOG.com, you can use it with vkQuake. However, you won’t be able to use the Extractor tool to obtain the id1 folder. Instead, you can install Quake 1 on a Windows or Linux virtual machine, copy the necessary files, and then use them with vkQuake on your Mac.

Running Quake 2 on Apple Silicon Macs

Obtaining the Game Data

Similar to Quake 1, purchase Quake 2 from GOG.com or Steam.

Using vkQuake or Other Source Ports

vkQuake supports Quake 2 as well. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Download Game Data: Extract the game files using the Extractor tool if you purchased from GOG.com.
2. Place Game Files: Place the extracted files in a folder next to vkQuake.app.
3. Launch vkQuake: Run vkQuake with the correct base directory specified. For example, if your game files are in ~/Downloads/quake2, you can run ./vkquake -basedir /Users/<your-username>/Downloads/quake2 in the Terminal.

Running Quake 3 on Apple Silicon Macs

Using ioquake3

ioquake3 is a modern port optimized for Quake 3, ensuring compatibility and performance on Apple Silicon Macs.

1. Download ioquake3: Get the ioquake3 source port from its official website or GitHub.
2. Install ioquake3: Place the ioquake3 app in your Applications folder.
3. Obtain Game Data: Purchase Quake 3 from GOG.com or Steam and extract the game files.
4. Place Game Files: Place the extracted files in a folder next to ioquake3.app.
5. Launch ioquake3: Run ioquake3 with the correct base directory specified. For example, if your game files are in ~/Downloads/quake3, you can run ./ioquake3 -basedir /Users/<your-username>/Downloads/quake3 in the Terminal.

Running Quake 4 on Apple Silicon Macs

Using Source Ports

Quake 4 can be played using source ports like QuakeSpasm, though it may require more manual configuration.

1. Download QuakeSpasm: Get the QuakeSpasm source port from its official website or GitHub.
2. Install QuakeSpasm: Place the QuakeSpasm app in your Applications folder.
3. Obtain Game Data: Purchase Quake 4 from GOG.com or Steam and extract the game files.
4. Place Game Files: Place the extracted files in a folder next to QuakeSpasm.app.
5. Launch QuakeSpasm: Run QuakeSpasm with the correct base directory specified. For example, if your game files are in ~/Downloads/quake4, you can specify the base directory in the Settings > Command line parameters section of QuakeSpasm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Own Original Copies of the Quake Games?

Yes, you need to own the original copies of the Quake games to play them legally on your Apple Silicon Mac. Purchase these games from online platforms like GOG.com or Steam.

Are Apple Silicon Macs Powerful Enough to Run Quake 1, 2, 3, and 4 at 60 FPS?

Yes, Apple Silicon Macs are powerful enough to run the first three Quake games in full 4K resolution.

Can I Play Multiplayer Mode in Quake Games on Apple Silicon Macs?

Yes, you can enjoy the multiplayer modes of Quake games on your Apple Silicon Mac.

Can I Play the Enhanced Versions of Quake Games on Apple Silicon Macs?

Yes, you can play the enhanced versions of Quake games using source ports like vkQuake. However, for some versions, you may need to use a virtual machine to extract the necessary files.

Configuring Quake for Optimal Performance

Creating an autoexec.cfg File

To add custom parameters to your Quake games, create a new autoexec.cfg file under the game folder. This file allows you to customize settings such as graphics and controls. For more detailed recommendations, refer to articles on Quake blog and Quaddicted.

Playing Quake Mods and Add-ons

Using Source Ports to Play Mods

To play Quake mods, download the desired mod archive and unpack it in a folder under your Quake game data folder. Then, specify the mod using the -game parameter. For example, if you have the Arcane Dimensions mod, you can run ./vkquake -basedir /Users/<your-username>/Downloads/quake -game ad in the Terminal.

Using Source Ports to Play Official Add-ons

To play official add-ons like Scourge of Armagon or Dissolution of Eternity, modify the command that specifies the base directory and add the -game parameter. For example, to play Scourge of Armagon, you can run ./vkquake -basedir /Users/<your-username>/Downloads/quake -game hipnotic.