Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition has arrived on macOS, offering Mac gamers a significant new title. The game launched today on Steam, where existing Windows owners automatically gain access to the Mac version at no additional cost. A Mac App Store release is scheduled for a later date, though no specific timeline has been provided.

The Definitive Edition brings the classic real-time strategy game to modern Macs with enhanced graphics and updated features. Players can expect 4K support, improved unit animations, and a remastered soundtrack. The game includes all content from previous expansions, along with new civilizations and campaigns exclusive to this edition.

This release marks a notable addition to the macOS gaming library, which often receives fewer major titles compared to Windows. The game's availability on Steam ensures broad accessibility, leveraging the platform's cross-platform capabilities. Mac users can now join the multiplayer community that has remained active since the original game's debut.

System requirements for macOS include a 2.4 GHz processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a graphics card with at least 2 GB of VRAM. The game supports Metal API, optimizing performance on compatible Mac hardware. Apple Silicon Macs are supported through Rosetta 2 emulation, with native support expected in a future update.

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition originally launched on Windows in 2019, receiving critical acclaim for its faithful modernization of the 1999 classic. The macOS version includes all post-launch updates and balance changes, ensuring parity with the Windows edition. Cross-platform multiplayer between Mac and Windows users is enabled, expanding the player base.

Pricing for the macOS version matches the Windows edition at $19.99 on Steam. The game is also available as part of the Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition + Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – Lords of the West bundle. No discounts or promotions have been announced for the launch period.

The Mac App Store version will be released at a later date, with pricing expected to align with the Steam version. Apple's platform may offer additional features such as iCloud save synchronization and Game Center integration. Further details about the App Store release are pending.

Fans of the series have long requested a native macOS version, as previous iterations required emulation or Boot Camp. This release eliminates those workarounds, providing a seamless experience on modern Mac hardware. The game's enduring popularity, supported by regular updates and a competitive scene, makes this a significant addition to the macOS gaming ecosystem.

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is available now on macOS via Steam for $19.99, with a Mac App Store release forthcoming.

Epic Games Store has launched its latest weekly giveaway, offering two games at no cost. The promotion runs from May 28 through June 4, giving players a limited window to add the titles to their libraries. The company has not disclosed the specific games in the announcement, leaving users to discover them on the storefront.

The free games are available to all Epic Games Store account holders. To claim them, users need to log in and visit the store's free games section. Once claimed, the games remain accessible permanently, even after the promotion ends. This model has become a staple of Epic's strategy to attract users to its platform.

Epic Games has been running weekly free game giveaways since 2019, offering a mix of indie hits and major titles. The program has distributed hundreds of games over the years, including titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Civilization VI. The company invests heavily in these giveaways to compete with Steam and other digital storefronts.

The current giveaway follows last week's offering, which included two other games. Epic typically announces the free games on Thursdays, with the new batch going live at 11:00 AM Eastern Time. Users must claim the games before the weekly rotation ends to keep them permanently.

Epic Games Store continues to expand its library and user base through these promotions. The platform also offers exclusive titles and a 12% revenue share for developers, which is lower than Steam's standard 30% cut. These incentives have helped Epic attract both players and developers.

The free games for this week are available in select regions. Epic Games Store supports multiple languages and currencies, making the offer accessible globally. Users are encouraged to check the store for any regional restrictions or additional terms.

To claim the games, users need the Epic Games Store client or can access the web store. The process requires a free account, which can be created on Epic's website. Once claimed, the games are added to the user's library and can be downloaded at any time.

Epic Games has not announced the titles for next week's giveaway, but the company typically reveals them when the current promotion ends. The weekly free games program remains a key part of Epic's strategy to grow its ecosystem and compete with established platforms.

The horror game Phasmophobia has received a free update that brings Alan Wake into the experience. Players on all supported platforms can now access the new content without any additional cost. The update integrates elements from the Alan Wake universe into the cooperative ghost-hunting gameplay.

Phasmophobia, developed by Kinetic Games, is a multiplayer horror title where players investigate paranormal activity. The addition of Alan Wake introduces new equipment, a new map, and other thematic features. The update includes a new location called the Cauldron Lake Cabin, inspired by the setting of Alan Wake.

Players can expect new tools such as the Angel Lamp and the Flare Gun, which are drawn from Alan Wake's arsenal. These items provide new ways to interact with ghosts and navigate the environment. The update also adds a new ghost type, the Taken, which behaves differently from existing entities.

The free update is available now on PC via Steam, as well as on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. Cross-platform play is supported, allowing players on different systems to team up. The update does not require any purchase beyond the base game.

Kinetic Games stated that the collaboration aims to bring a fresh experience to Phasmophobia players while honoring the Alan Wake franchise. The update is part of a series of content additions planned for the game. No further details on future updates were provided.

The Alan Wake-themed content is expected to be permanent, remaining in the game after the update. Players can access it immediately after downloading the latest patch. The update size varies by platform but is generally under 2 GB.

Epic Games is set to introduce Overwatch characters into Fortnite, with Tracer and Sombra confirmed as the first heroes to join the battle royale. The crossover event, which aligns with Overwatch's 10th anniversary, will bring themed skins and cosmetic items to the game. Leaks suggest additional Overwatch heroes may follow in future updates.

Tracer's iconic look will be available as a Fortnite outfit, complete with her signature goggles and chronal accelerator. Sombra's skin features her cyberpunk aesthetic and stealthy design. Both characters will come with back bling, pickaxes, and emotes inspired by their Overwatch abilities.

The collaboration was first hinted at through data mines and official teasers from Epic Games. Players can expect the skins to arrive in the Item Shop, likely as part of a bundle. Pricing details have not been announced, but similar crossover skins typically cost around 1,500 V-Bucks each.

This is not the first time Fortnite has hosted major gaming crossovers. Previous collaborations include characters from Marvel, DC, Star Wars, and even other Blizzard properties like Diablo. The Overwatch partnership underscores Epic's strategy of blending popular franchises into its ever-expanding universe.

Overwatch 2, the sequel to Blizzard's hero shooter, continues to receive updates, but the Fortnite crossover offers a new way for fans to engage with the characters. The event may also attract new players to Fortnite who are fans of Overwatch.

The skins are expected to go live in Fortnite on May 20, 2024, according to leaked dates. Epic Games has not officially confirmed the release date, but the timing aligns with Overwatch's anniversary celebrations. Players should keep an eye on the Item Shop for the limited-time offerings.

As with most Fortnite collaborations, the Overwatch skins will likely be available for a limited period. Epic Games has not indicated whether the items will return after the event ends. The crossover adds to Fortnite's reputation as a hub for gaming culture crossovers.

"We're excited to bring these iconic heroes to Fortnite," an Epic Games spokesperson said in a statement. "This collaboration celebrates the legacy of Overwatch and gives our players a new way to express themselves in the game." The skins will be available starting May 20, 2024, in the Fortnite Item Shop.