Overheating hardware can cause game lockups, crashes, and performance issues such as low FPS and stuttering. If you are experiencing these issues, try the troubleshooting steps below to diagnose and prevent overheating.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to take the computer to a computer repair specialist to have the hardware issue resolved.

You can monitor your heat levels during play by downloading the free version of HWMonitor from CPUID. Once you've installed the program, follow these steps:

  1. Start HWMonitor.
  2. Run HWMonitor while you play the game until you experience the problem.
  3. Review the max temperatures reached in HWMonitor. You may have an overheating issue if your CPU goes over 60 degrees celsius, or your video card (GPU) goes over 80 degress celsius.
  4. If you need to provide us your heat information, please screenshot or type out the listed Max temperatures and which piece of computer hardware they're listed under.

The Apple Diagnostics Test allows you to test your computer's hardware for problems. Once you have finished running the test, write down any reference codes you receive. A list of potential codes can be found at the Apple Diagnostics Reference Codes guide.

If you notice that your Mac is getting too hot and the instructions below does not improve the issue, it may be because Spotlight is indexing. This usually takes several hours, and is performed to improve hard disk search times. Click the Spotlight icon to see how much longer the indexing will take. Avoid playing games on your Mac while Spotlight is indexing, as performance will suffer and the computer will be more prone to overheating.

To prevent overheating

  1. Set your components to factory default speeds to resolve crashes and performance issues due to overclocking.
  2. A buildup of dust inside the computer can cause overheating issues. Have your computer cleaned by a certified technician.
  3. Play on a solid surface if you are using a laptop. Soft surfaces reduce airflow and can cause the system to run at a higher temperature. A desk or table is an ideal gaming surface.
  4. Make sure you are playing in a cool environment. Playing in a room or area that is 80°F (27°C) or higher can contribute to overheating.