Caveat: future of the Mac client lies in 64-bit only

KhajitFurTrader

From the latest PTS patch notes:

• The Mac client will now require more RAM, with 8GB of RAM recommended.
• Machines with 4GB of RAM may see a negative effect on game performance.
• Only the 64-bit version for the Mac client will be supported moving forward.

(emphasis mine)

Given the amount of RAM the client can put to good use, this is a sensible decision. Not that Mac users need to worry, as OS X supports 64-bit GUI applications since Leopard, runs only on 64-bit capable CPUs since Lion, and has a 64-bit-only kernel since Mountain Lion url="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OS_X#Versions"]1[/url.

Please also note that in order for OpenGL 4.1 to work, the minimum OS X version is Mavericks (10.9), and the Mac's graphics card must be capable to support it as well (or rather, its OS X driver). The minimum OS version requirement has been in place at least since 06/24/2015 (btw, this FAQ needs to be updated with the new recommended RAM specifications, @ZOS_MollyH ).

Edited to add this gem from the natch potes:

• We have upgraded the Mac client to use OpenGL 4.1.
• This will allow the Mac client to use higher resolution textures than previously.
• Improved facial animations will be included in a future incremental patch.

("future incremental patch" implies "to the PTS version during the current test phase", as there are multiple builds before the next live version is ready)

\o/

LaucianNailor

Thanks for the summary KFT
Not sure if I missed it but wasn't the game pad mode for Mac supposed to arrive with the 64bit client? Can't see any mention of it at all

KhajitFurTrader

LaucianNailor wrote: »

Can't see any mention of it at all

Neither did I, sorry. And I won't be able to look for appropriate in-game settings until much later this evening (I hope).

KhajitFurTrader

Update: I did see game pad options in the game settings of the PTS client! They had the beta status tag, but afair they're still in beta on the Windows client, too! Can't remember right now what kinds of game pads are supported by OS X in general, or ESO in particular. The only kind I have available is a pair of PS3 controllers, don't know whether they work, but I might just try, just for the fun of it.

LaucianNailor

Nice spot, I've downloaded the PTS (looks fantastic btw ) and use a PS4 controller linked by BT, so will give that a try when I get a chance over the next few days.