Game developers can now more easily adapt their games to create stunning graphics by leveraging the technology found in Apple computers without ever having to leave their Windows machine, thanks to the new Metal development tools created by Apple (via Reddit).
Apple quietly released a set of Metal Developer Tools for Windows 10 at WWDC this year, enabling the use of the Metal Shading Language (MSL) build on Windows within the Metal Object Library (Metal Library Objects) for l use on Apple platforms. This means that game production teams can now use PCs to compile games developed on Windows for macOS and other Apple operating systems.
Many game creation studios have established graphics production or workflows using Microsoft Windows infrastructure. One of the final steps in the file creation process is compiling graphics and shadows for inclusion in the game.
Since Apple has announced its transition to a proprietary board design, developers who want to bring their games to Metal will be able to place them on different Apple platforms, such as iOS; iPadOS, tvOS and macOS. The Apple API automatically translates all input into any required input method, be it touch, controller or keyboard and mouse. Developers targeting the Apple platform will now be able to develop simultaneously for the iPad, iPhone, Mac and Apple TV.
This may make global "Apple" platforms more attractive to game developers as they will have access to a much wider audience than if they only catered to macOS or iOS.
While it is not possible to develop games for Apple devices on Windows 100%, as a Mac is still required for signing and testing, Apple's availability of game-oriented development tools for Windows is an important step in the availability of games for Apple devices.
As Apple moves the Mac towards its proprietary design, in which new Macs will not be compatible with Boot CampIt is interesting that Apple releases specific tools for designing games on Windows.
This video of Max Tech offers a good perspective on the subject:
