I recently had the opportunity to test an early version of *[Control](https://mashable.com/article/control-video-game-review-remedy)* on the new *[M4 MacBook Pro](https://mashable.com/review/m4-pro-macbook-pro-14-inch)*, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that “PCs may need to start looking over their shoulders!”
Now, before the die-hard PC gamers jump in with, “macOS is still significantly behind Windows for gaming,” I understand where you’re coming from. I’m not suggesting that Macs are on the verge of surpassing Windows PCs in the gaming sector—at least, not just yet. However, the divide between Windows and macOS in gaming is undoubtedly narrowing, which should concern Windows. Why? While Windows may still hold a dominant position among hardcore gamers, it could start losing appeal to casual and new gamers. My experience with *Control* on the M4 MacBook Pro highlighted this.
### *Control* on the M4 MacBook Pro is Remarkable
If you’ve experienced *Control* on another system, you probably haven’t encountered it quite like this.
Originally launched nearly five years ago on PC, PS4, and Xbox One, *Control* looks absolutely breathtaking on the M4 MacBook Pro. The M4 chip provides a new level of graphical excellence and awe-inspiring visuals to the game. Playing as Jesse Faden, a young woman endowed with supernatural powers, I was amazed as I floated above rugged landscapes. The dynamic lighting played across rock formations, casting soft-edged, realistic shadows that altered with my movements.
Drifting debris and polished stone surfaces reflected ambient illumination, contributing a subtle glossiness. Even distant light sources bounced off objects, generating reflections that felt strikingly real. The graphics were vibrant, clear, and captivating. Jesse Faden herself appeared stunning, with her leather jacket looking so realistic that I felt I could reach out and touch it.
So, what makes *Control* look so impressive on the M4 MacBook Pro? Credit the hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading abilities of the M4 chip (and its predecessor, the M3 chip). In layman’s terms, these Macs can render ultra-realistic lighting and shadows, effortlessly handling detailed 3D environments.
With a graphic-intensive game like *Control* running smoothly on the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro, it’s evident that Windows should be taking notice.
That said, I didn’t have the opportunity to assess the MacBook Pro’s thermal management, and I couldn’t determine any load times since the game was already active when I began playing at Apple’s showcase.
### Apple Might Draw More Laptop Buyers Away from Windows
Imagine you’re searching for a new laptop. You’re not an avid gamer, but you’re curious about dabbling in gaming. You require a machine that can manage daytime productivity and some casual gaming at night. You aren’t particularly inclined toward macOS or Windows, but you’ve heard that Macs are renowned for their impressive battery life and powerful performance.
In *[our recent evaluation of the M4 MacBook Pro](https://mashable.com/review/m4-pro-macbook-pro-14-inch)*, it delivered an outstanding 16 hours and 32 minutes on a single charge, and its performance surpassed the competition.
Additionally, macOS is gearing up to support one of the most graphically intensive games available: *[Cyberpunk 2077](https://9to5mac.com/2024/10/30/cyberpunk-2077-coming-to-mac/#:~:text=While%20detailing%20the%20all%2Dnew,coming%20to%20macOS%20in%202024)*.
Sure, the Mac’s gaming selection is still limited compared to Windows, but Apple is addressing that. The Game Porting Toolkit is assisting developers in efficiently adapting their Windows games for macOS. And if you’re just starting with gaming, you might be satisfied with what’s currently available on macOS.
Apple is also actively broadening its gaming library, with new releases like *Control* and *Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown* coming soon.
Conversely, if you’re contemplating a Windows laptop, you’ll have access to a vast range of games. However, you’ll likely face challenges with poor battery life and the need to stay connected to a power outlet for most of the day.
For a casual or new gamer who isn’t committed to specific titles, there may not be a compelling reason to choose Windows, particularly if you’re open to either operating system.
In summary, if you’re a casual gamer who doesn’t mind a smaller game library, why opt for Windows?
*Control*, which is anticipated to launch on macOS in February 2025, could serve as a wake-up call for Windows to reassess its strategies.