MacBook – How to tell if a game will run on the machine

gamesmacbook prosystem requirements

I just bought my first 13" MacBook Pro. Before purchasing new games for my Windows notebook, I used to check the compatibility with Can You Run It, but that site doesn't list Mac compatibility or requirements.

Is there any other website where I can check game compatibility for Mac computers?

Specifically, I'd like to play Call of Duty 4 and Civilization V. Can I play these games on my 13" MacBook Pro?

Edit: my system's specification

Software Mac OS X Lion 10.7.3 (11D50b)

Graphics Intel HD Graphics 3000 384 MB

Memory 4 GB 1333 MHz DDR3
Processor 2.7 GHz Intel Core i7
13-inch, Early 2011

with these specifications can i play any of these game on my system?

Best Answer

About the graphics of the MBP

The Macbook Pro 13'' uses integrated Intel HD 3000 graphics. But Intel HD 3000 graphics are used in different processors. The performance varies depending on whether it's a mobile or desktop CPU. You need to read benchmarks with caution:

  • ULV processors core ix-2xx7 (base freq. 350MHz, turbo 900-1000MHz) (Macbook Air)
  • LV processors core ix-2xx5 (base freq. 500MHz, turbo 1000MHz)
  • standard dual and quad-core ix-2xx0 (base freq. 650MHz, turbo 1100-1200MHz) (Macbook Pros)
  • desktop K processors (base freq. 850, turbo 1100-1350MHz)

Gaming Performance

On notebookcheck.net I've looked up some statistics. They keep benchmarks on how different games perform. I find these real world tests quite useful.

If you follow the link, you can click on the single fps results to see each system configuration.

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Conclusion

You should have a minimum of 24-30 fps to enjoy playing. Considering this, I'll say that playing those games on a MBP 13'' of 2011 will possibly work, but not result in the maximum fun :).

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