Best Call of Duty Games on Mac: How to Play

Dive into the exhilarating world of Call of Duty—right on your Mac! Gone are the days of envying console and PC players; now, Mac users can get in on the action, too. Whether a CoD veteran or new to the battlefield, this guide is your ticket to top-tier gaming.

I’ll unravel the best Call of Duty games on Mac, help you optimize your setup for warfare, and show you how to play CoD on Mac for an unbeatable experience. Ready to dominate the leaderboards? Let’s get started!

Best Call of Duty Games on Mac in 2023

The gaming landscape continues to evolve, but one thing remains constant: the unparalleled excitement and competition offered by the Call of Duty franchise. Even better, Mac users no longer have to sit on the sidelines!

With an increasing number of CoD titles becoming Mac-compatible, there’s never been a better time to gear up and join the fray. So, what are the best Call of Duty games you can enjoy on your Mac this year? Let’s take a look.

1. Call of Duty 2 (2005)

Call of Duty 2 System Requirements

Specifications	Minimum Requirements
OS	macOS 10.12 (Sierra)
Processor	Intel Core 2 Duo (Dual-Core)
Graphics	NVIDIA Geforce 7300 or better or ATI Radeon X1600
Memory	512MB RAM
Storage	4GB available space

If you’ve got a Mac and you’re into Call of Duty, you really ought to check out Call of Duty 2. Yeah, it came out in 2005, but don’t let its age fool you. Playing it took me back to the good old days of simple, action-packed gaming.

I was quickly pulled into the game’s World War II settings, from snowy Russia to desert landscapes in Africa. Each mission felt unique, and I never got bored. Plus, being a soldier from different Allied nations added some extra flavor.

I played this on my MacBook Pro, and it ran smoothly with no hiccups. The graphics aren’t as slick as the latest titles but have a classic charm. The sounds of gunfire and explosions are still as exciting as I remember from years ago.

The controls were easy to get used to. I adjusted the settings a bit, and after that, I felt like a pro. Multiplayer is still a blast. I was surprised to find a decent number of players online, and it was easy to hop into a game.

Why I Loved It

• Varied Missions: The different landscapes and objectives in each mission kept me hooked.
• Nostalgia Factor: This game brings back the straightforward action of classic shooters.
• Community: Even after all these years, there’s still a welcoming online community.

Although Call of Duty 2 brings a lot of excitement and nostalgic moments, it isn’t without its flaws. The biggest drawback for me was the lack of customization options for weapons and characters. Also, the limited number of multiplayer modes can make the experience a bit repetitive over time.

Play This Game If

• You Love WWII Stories: The campaign covers different fronts and offers a range of perspectives.
• You Want Simplicity: If you’re tired of modern games with complicated mechanics, this is a breath of fresh air.
• You’re on a Budget: Being an older title, it’s generally less expensive than the newer Call of Duty games.

Is Call of Duty 2 worth your time on a Mac? For me, it was a resounding yes. If you’re into old-school gaming or just want a break from the complex and busy modern titles, this is a classic you shouldn’t miss.

2. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2007)

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare System Requirements

Specifications	Minimum Requirements
OS	macOS 10.12 (Sierra)
Processor	Intel Core 2 Duo (Dual-Core)
Graphics	NVIDIA Geforce 7300 or better or ATI Radeon X1600
Memory	1GB RAM
Storage	8 GB + 1 GB Swap File

First off, the graphics of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare are so awesome that I felt inside an action movie. You should’ve seen this one mission where I was sneaking through a dark building. Every little detail, like the shine on my gun and even the dust floating in the air, was super clear.

The story is like a page-turner book you can’t put down. You’re not just a soldier shooting bad guys. You’ve got to make some tough choices that really make you think. One moment, I was sneaking around to rescue hostages, and my heart was pounding like crazy, wondering if I’d get caught.

It’s not just what you see, it’s also what you hear that makes this game super immersive. This thing introduced some super cool features like bullets that actually go through stuff like wood and walls, just like in real life. And man, the hit detection is so precise, it’s crazy.

The multiplayer is where the real fun is. Every match is a new adventure, and trust me, the excitement never gets old. When I started, I got beaten a lot. But remember, you’ll need a good Mac to run this game well. If your Mac is old, you might see some lag.

Why I Loved It

• Feels Like a Movie: The game pulls you in like a blockbuster movie. The action, the drama, it’s all there.
• Multiplayer Madness: Playing with friends or even strangers is just crazy fun. Winning a super close match is a feeling like no other.
• Deep Story: The game’s story is more than just guns and explosions. You really start to care about what’s happening and who you’re fighting for.

The game’s not perfect, though. Some guns feel way stronger than others, so sometimes, everyone ends up using the same weapon. And yeah, I’ve had the game freeze on me a couple of times. Super annoying.

Play This Game If

• You Love Stories: If you’re into games with good stories, you’ll really dig this one.
• You’re a Team Player: If you like working with others, this game is a win. The teamwork here is just as important as being a good shot.
• You Like Challenges: This game isn’t easy, especially the multiplayer. But if you’re up for getting better and beating tough odds, you’ll have a blast.

So, if you’re looking for an all-in-one package of a gripping story and high-adrenaline multiplayer action, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare is pretty much a must-play. Just remember it’s not perfect and needs a decent Mac to run smoothly.

3. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009)

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 System Requirements

Specifications	Minimum Requirements
OS	macOS 10.12 (Sierra)
Processor	Intel i3 (Dual-Core)
Graphics	ATI Radeon HD 4850; NVidia Geforce 640M; Intel Iris
Memory	4GB RAM
Storage	13GB available space

This game’s story is a direct sequel to Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, and it’s like being inside an action movie. You’ll go on intense global missions, from Russia to Afghanistan. You’ll meet some familiar faces like Captain Soap, and trust me, you’ll get hooked on the storyline. Just a heads-up, though: some missions can be pretty intense.

Getting Modern Warfare 2 up and running on my Mac was a breeze. The game ran smoothly, and I didn’t run into any weird glitches or anything. The controls feel great, which makes running around and aiming super easy.

My favorite mission has got to be “The Gulag,” where you rescue a VIP. It’s challenging and super rewarding when you finally complete it. In multiplayer, I can’t get enough of the “Highrise” map, the rooftop battles are too good to miss.

New to the game? Keep an eye out for care packages in multiplayer, they can really give you an edge. And take my advice—don’t rush into the open. Stick to the sides where it’s easier to find cover.

Why I Loved It

• Immersive Story: Seriously, the storyline in this game is top-notch. You feel like you’re part of something big.
• Smooth Gameplay: Everything from shooting to moving around feels natural, especially on a Mac.
• Social Fun: Multiplayer is where the fun really takes off. It’s exciting to team up with friends or even make new ones online.

The game isn’t perfect, though. Sometimes, other players use tactics that just feel unfair. That can be a mood killer when you’re trying to enjoy the game. Also, remember that this game came out a while ago, so the graphics won’t be as shiny as some newer games.

Play This Game If

• You Love Action: This game is fast-paced and full of exciting shootouts. It’s a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
• You Like Strategy: Although it’s mainly a shoot-’em-up game, features like killstreaks mean you’ve got to use your brain, too.
• You Want to Socialize: The multiplayer mode is perfect if you want to play with friends or meet new gamers.

Don’t let the game’s age fool you—Modern Warfare 2 is still a stunner, visually speaking. Add to that an extensive arsenal of customizable weapons and gear, and you’ve got an oldie but goldie that refuses to show its age.

4. Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010)

Call of Duty: Black Ops System Requirements

Specifications	Minimum Requirements
OS	macOS 10.12 (Sierra)
Processor	Intel Core 2 Duo (Dual-Core)
Graphics	NVIDIA 640M, ATI HD 3870, Intel HD 5000
Memory	4GB RAM
Storage	15GB available space

When I first played Call of Duty: Black Ops on my Mac, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But wow, did it surprise me! The game loaded up super fast, and the graphics were really clear—like, you could see raindrops falling and leaves rustling. The sounds were awesome, too. You could even hear footsteps creeping up behind you.

Ready for a covert operation that’s ripped from the pages of history yet filled with the game’s own twists? The single-player campaign marries fact with fiction, providing a narrative-rich and thrilling storyline.

The story is like being in a spy movie. You’re not just some soldier, you’re like a secret agent doing super-secret missions. One level had me sneaking into an enemy base in disguise, and let me tell you, my heart was racing the whole time.

Playing online with friends? So much fun. There was zero lag, so everything flowed smoothly when we were in the middle of an epic battle. And you’ve got to try the Zombies mode. It’s you and your pals in an old building, and zombies keep coming wave after wave. Every round, they get tougher, and it’s just wild.

Why I Loved It

• Zombies Mode: Fighting off endless zombies with friends was just too much fun. It’s a whole different game within a game.
• Spy-Like Missions: Being a secret agent and going on sneaky missions made me feel like a hero in a spy movie.
• Multiplayer Experience: Playing online was smooth, and teaming up with friends never got old. It’s like hanging out but in a game.

Now, no game is perfect, right? Some missions were pretty hard, almost like the game was testing my patience. I had to redo some parts a bunch of times. Also, the story got confusing. If you’re not paying super close attention, you might get lost.

Play This Game If

• You Love Action: If you want to feel like you’re in an action movie, this is the game for you.
• You’ve Got Friends to Team Up With: This game is a whole lot more fun when you’re playing with buddies.
• You’re Up for a Challenge: If you like games that make you think and not just shoot stuff, you’ll dig this one.

So, if you’re up for a game that’s more than just blasting things, Call of Duty: Black Ops is worth a try. It’s got action, a cool story, and awesome multiplayer stuff. Just know that it can get tricky and a little confusing sometimes.

5. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2011)

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 System Requirements

Specifications	Minimum Requirements
OS	macOS 10.9.2 (Mavericks)
Processor	Intel i3 (Dual-Core)
Graphics	ATI Radeon HD 4850; NVIDIA GeForce 640M; Intel Iris
Memory	4GB RAM
Storage	13GB available space

The second I fired up Modern Warfare 3 on my Mac, I felt like a hero about to dive into an action-packed world. Trust me, this game doesn’t hold back on excitement.

You know how some movies get your heart racing? That’s how I felt playing the story mode. It’s like you’re jumping from one blockbuster scene to another. I was really impressed by the mission in Paris; the buildings and streets looked so real, it was like I was actually there.

I lost track of time playing multiplayer. It’s so much fun trying to outsmart other players and capture the flag or hold down a point on the map. And the Survival mode is insane—you and a friend fighting off wave after wave of enemies.

Here’s the cool part: the game runs really well on a Mac. No glitches or anything like that. It even installed without a hitch, so you can jump right into the action without any annoying delays. The controls? Smooth as butter, which makes it easy for anyone to jump in and start playing.

Why I Loved It

• Never a Dull Moment: Seriously, there’s always something epic happening in the story.
• Easy Controls: They’re so easy to get, you’ll feel like a pro in no time.
• Looks Awesome: The graphics make you feel like you’re in an actual movie.

As much as this game is a rush, it’s got some bumps. The story zips along super fast, so you might get a bit lost if you’re new to the Modern Warfare series. And, let’s be real, multiplayer can be a tough playground, especially if you’re new and everyone else seems like a pro.

Play This Game If

• You’re an Action Junkie: If you love movies with car chases and explosions, this is like that, but YOU’re in control.
• You Like Playing with Friends: Multiplayer and co-op modes mean you can team up and have a blast.
• You Want a Challenge: From easy to hard, there’s a level for everyone. But get ready; it can get tough!

Among all the Call of Duty games you can play on a Mac, Modern Warfare 3 is a standout. It’s got action, it’s got teamwork, and it runs smooth. Just be ready for a wild ride that’ll test your skills.

6. Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 (2015)

Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 (2015) System Requirements

Specifications	Minimum Requirements
OS	macOS 10.13.6 (High Sierra) or later
Processor	Intel® Core™ i5 (4 Cores)
Graphics	ATI® Radeon™ M295X @ 2GB
Memory	8GB RAM
Storage	150GB available space

Picture this: the year is 2065, drones are as common as birds, and you’re caught up in covert operations that could change the world. This is what Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 felt like to me, no less than a high-stakes action movie.

One of my favorite moments was completing a stealth mission alongside my friends. We had to coordinate our moves perfectly to avoid detection, and pulling it off felt incredibly rewarding. The game’s graphics and immersive sound effects make you feel like you’re really in the thick of it, dodging bullets and navigating through a futuristic world.

In story mode, the game touches on some real-world problems we’re facing, like technology taking over. It’s not just a shoot-’em-up, it makes you think. Plus, the co-op feature means you and your friends can tackle these big issues together.

Multiplayer is also a thrill, especially with the Specialist system. I enjoyed mastering each Specialist’s unique abilities, like going invisible to outwit my enemies. The Zombies mode is an entirely different beast but just as compelling, complete with challenging puzzles and wave after wave of relentless undead.

Why I Loved It

• Teamwork Matters: Completing missions with friends feels rewarding and adds a layer of strategy that I absolutely loved.
• Varied Gameplay: The game keeps you guessing, whether you’re choosing a Specialist in multiplayer or navigating through the campaign’s twists and turns.
• Never a Dull Moment: With story mode, multiplayer, and Zombies, boredom isn’t an option.

The game isn’t perfect, though. While I got used to it, the control scheme on Mac felt a bit awkward at first, especially for quick actions. The story can also be a bit confusing, sometimes, I wasn’t sure why I was going on a particular mission other than “orders from the top.”

Play This Game If

• You’re an Action Junkie: The fast pace and heart-pounding moments make it perfect for adrenaline seekers.
• You Value Teamwork: Whether it’s campaign or Zombies, the co-op elements can make or break your game.
• You’re Intrigued by the Future: If you think robots and drones are cool, the game’s setting will definitely pique your interest.

Developed by Treyarch and published by Activision, this title has solidified its status as a fan-favorite in the long-running Call of Duty franchise. However, its graphical intensity and complex gameplay may not be suitable for those with older Mac systems.

How to Play Call of Duty on Mac: Step-by-Step Guide

Playing Call of Duty on a Mac is indeed possible, and while it might take a few more steps compared to playing on a Windows PC or gaming console, the experience can be just as enjoyable.

Below, I’ll guide you through two main methods to play Call of Duty on your Mac – via Boot Camp and a gaming virtual machine.

Method 1: Using Boot Camp

Boot Camp is a utility with Apple Mac computers that allows you to install and run Windows operating systems alongside macOS on your Mac hardware. Essentially, Boot Camp partitions your hard drive into two sections, one for macOS and one for Windows.

Boot Camp is ideal for running Windows-exclusive applications or games, such as Call of Duty, natively on your machine. However, while Boot Camp facilitates the process, it does not come with a Windows license, which you must obtain separately.

Follow these steps to play Call of Duty on Mac using Boot Camp:

Step 1: Verify System Requirements

Before you start, make sure your Mac meets the system requirements for the specific Call of Duty game you want to play. You can usually find these on the game’s official website or on its page in the digital store where it’s being sold (e.g., Steam or the Microsoft Store).

Step 2: Get a Copy of Windows

You will need a licensed copy of Windows 10. You can purchase it directly from Microsoft or from a licensed reseller.

Step 3: Install Boot Camp

Open the Boot Camp Assistant, which is located in the Utilities folder in your Applications. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows. You must partition your hard drive, meaning you’ll have to decide how much space to allocate to Windows and how much to leave for macOS.

Step 4: Install Windows

Once you’ve partitioned your hard drive, your Mac will restart and begin the Windows installation process. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Step 5: Install Call of Duty

After installing Windows, you can start up your Mac in Windows, install a gaming platform like Steam or the Battle.net client, and download and install Call of Duty just as you would on a regular PC.

Method 2: Using a Gaming Virtual Machine

Another way to play Call of Duty on a Mac is through a gaming virtual machine such as Parallels Desktop, a software that allows you to run Windows within macOS.

Here’s how to use Parallels to play Call of Duty Mac:

Step 1: Check System Requirements

Again, first, check whether your Mac meets the system requirements for Parallels and the specific Call of Duty game you want to play.

Step 2: Install Parallels Desktop

Download Parallels Desktop for Mac from the official website, purchase a license if needed, and follow the instructions to install the software.

Step 3: Install Windows on Parallels

Once Parallels Desktop is installed, you must install Windows within it. You will be guided through this process when you first open Parallels Desktop. Remember, you will also need a licensed copy of Windows for this.

Step 4: Install Call of Duty

After Windows is installed within Parallels, you can download and install the gaming platform that hosts Call of Duty (Steam, Battle.net, etc.), then download and install the game.

While using a gaming virtual machine might be easier and less intrusive (since you don’t need to restart your Mac to switch between macOS and Windows), it can also be more resource-intensive, potentially leading to poor gaming performance if your Mac doesn’t significantly exceed the game’s system requirements.

Play Call of Duty Games on Mac

This guide has taken an in-depth look at the best Call of Duty games on Mac and how to play them. I’ve explored the thrilling combat zones of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, dived into the historical narratives of World at War, and fought through the futuristic battles in Black Ops.

Now, it’s time for you to ready your Mac for gaming by following these tips:

• Remember that CoD can be demanding on your system, so you must optimize your Mac for gaming.
• CoD can take up a lot of storage space, so you must optimize storage on your Mac to make sure there’s enough space for the game.
• Familiarize yourself with Mac keyboard shortcuts to elevate your computer gaming experience.

Frequently Asked Questions