How to Play Starminer on Mac (Best Options Compared)
- Sven Frese
- Games
- May 29, 2026
Starminer is a space mining RPG from CoolAndGoodGames that combines base-building, action, and exploration in an Early Access package that’s been pulling in a solid player base. It’s Windows-only for now, but Mac players have a few ways to get in on it.
The main options are CrossOver (a paid Windows compatibility layer), Whisky (a free alternative built on the same tech), or CloudDeck (cloud gaming that streams the game from a remote server). Here’s how each one stacks up.
Option 1: CrossOver
CrossOver runs Windows games directly on your Mac without needing a Windows license or virtual machine. It translates Windows calls to macOS in real time using Wine.
How does Starminer perform?
Starminer is a recent Early Access release, so CrossOver compatibility reports are still coming in. Check ProtonDB and the CodeWeavers compatibility database for the latest community feedback. Gold or Platinum ratings on ProtonDB generally mean CrossOver will handle the game well too.
How to get started:
- Download CrossOver ($74/year, 14-day free trial)
- Install Steam through CrossOver
- Purchase and install Starminer
Option 2: Whisky (Free Alternative)
Whisky is a free, open-source app that uses the same Wine base as CrossOver. If CrossOver handles Starminer, Whisky is likely to work similarly. The trade-off is more manual configuration and no official support.
How to get started:
- Download Whisky (free)
- Create a new bottle
- Install Steam inside the bottle
- Install and run Starminer
Check the Whisky Discord if you hit any snags.
Option 3: CloudDeck (Cloud Gaming)
CloudDeck skips the compatibility question altogether. The game runs on a remote server, and your Mac just displays the stream. No Wine, no translating system calls, no compatibility gamble.
CloudDeck plays Windows games via Proton on Nobara Linux. Starminer has no anti-cheat software, so it works without issues on CloudDeck regardless of the CrossOver situation.
Best for:
- Mac users who don’t want to troubleshoot
- Anyone on an older or lower-spec Mac
- Playing across different devices
Requirements: Any Mac and a stable internet connection (15+ Mbps recommended).
How to get started:
- Sign up for CloudDeck ($19.99/month, cancel anytime)
- Connect via Moonlight or your browser
- Install Starminer from Steam
- Start playing, no setup fiddling needed
Which Option Should You Choose?
| Your Situation | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Want to check compatibility first | CrossOver (free trial) |
| Prefer free tools and DIY setup | Whisky |
| Want the game to just work | CloudDeck |
FAQ
Why is there no Mac version of Starminer?
CoolAndGoodGames focused on Windows for Early Access. Mac support may come later, but there’s no announcement yet.
Does it work on Apple Silicon?
CrossOver and Whisky both run on Apple Silicon. CloudDeck is server-based so your Mac hardware doesn’t factor in.
Is it single-player?
Starminer is primarily a single-player RPG, which means no anti-cheat complications for any of the options above.
Last updated: May 2026.
