Schedule 1, the controversial drug dealing simulation game, has quickly become a hit on Steam since its early access release. However, Mac users eager to join the illicit virtual drug trade may find themselves frustrated. While the game is technically available on the Steam platform for macOS, actually getting it to run on Apple hardware presents some significant hurdles.
No Official Mac Support
The developers of Schedule 1, TVGS, designed the game specifically for Windows PCs. The Steam store page clearly states that Windows 10 64-bit is required to play. This means Mac users cannot simply purchase and download the game through Steam like Windows players can.
Workarounds for Determined Mac Gamers
Despite the lack of native support, some intrepid Mac gamers have found ways to get Schedule 1 running through virtualization and emulation tools. However, these methods come with major caveats:
Using Virtualization Software
Virtualization apps like Parallels, VMware Fusion, and VirtualBox allow running Windows on Mac hardware. In theory, this could let Schedule 1 run inside a virtual Windows environment.
Step 1: Install virtualization software of choice on your Mac.
Step 2: Set up a Windows 10 virtual machine.
Step 3: Install Steam and Schedule 1 inside the Windows VM.
The downside is that running a full Windows OS alongside macOS requires significant system resources. Many Macs may struggle with performance.
Wine and Crossover
Wine is a compatibility layer that can run some Windows apps on Mac. Crossover is a paid, user-friendly version of Wine.
Step 1: Install Wine or purchase/download Crossover.
Step 2: Configure Wine/Crossover to run Steam.
Step 3: Install Schedule 1 through Steam.
Reports indicate mixed results with this method. Some users have gotten the game to launch, but with major performance issues and graphical glitches.
Cloud Gaming Services
Services like GeForce Now or Amazon Luna stream games from powerful remote servers. If Schedule 1 becomes available on these platforms, it could provide a way for Mac users to play without taxing their local hardware.
System Requirements Are Key
Regardless of the method used, Schedule 1 is a relatively demanding game. Macs need beefy specs to have any hope of running it smoothly:
- At least 16GB of RAM
- A dedicated graphics card (not integrated Intel graphics)
- Plenty of free storage space
- Recent macOS version
Older or lower-spec Macs are unlikely to provide an enjoyable experience even if the game can be made to launch.
The Future of Schedule 1 on Mac
As an early access title, there’s always a possibility that TVGS could release an official Mac version of Schedule 1 in the future. However, given the relatively small market share of Mac gaming, it may not be a priority for the developers.
For now, Mac users hoping to build their virtual drug empires may need to settle for watching Let’s Plays or consider investing in a Windows gaming PC if they want the full Schedule 1 experience. The game’s unique blend of management sim and dark humor has clearly struck a chord with PC gamers, but Apple devotees will have to be patient or get creative if they want to join in on the controversial fun.