Does the checked build support your Mac?
The build 125 release lists arm64 / Apple Silicon and macOS 15 or newer. Start by checking Apple menu → About This Mac for the chip and macOS version.
This release snapshot does not list a separate Intel Mac package. Do not infer Intel support from the existence of a download labelled macOS. A compatible operating system and chip are only the starting point: the graphics translation path and game remain relevant.
Download and open the original package
- Select macOS in Lichii downloads.
- Confirm that the link goes to the project’s GitHub release, then read its macOS notes.
- Download and extract the ARM64 ZIP. Keep its application bundle intact.
- Verify the source before opening the application. The release states that it is not notarized. A macOS security prompt should be handled as a decision about this specific verified file, not as a reason to disable protection for all applications.
- The release notes describe right-clicking the app and choosing Open on first launch. macOS behavior can vary with the system version and policy. If the prompt differs, consult the current release notes and Apple’s guidance for that exact message.
The expected outcome is the emulator window, not an automatic game download. Games, keys and firmware are separate files and are not included.
Configure a first session
Prepare the legally obtained files your game needs, add its directory to the game library and check the selected input device. The repository retains inherited user documentation, so some menus and storage names still refer to Eden. Use the current visible labels rather than renaming application data based only on the new brand.
If you already have an Eden or Eglantine installation, follow the backup guide before testing. Lichii says it intentionally retains the existing data directories and configuration keys.
Why can a Windows report be misleading on Mac?
A Windows/NVIDIA result includes a different GPU driver and graphics path. It cannot establish the result on Apple Silicon. Likewise, an NVIDIA DLSS setting mentioned in a Windows release note is not a universal Mac performance recommendation.
Compare reports for the same game, emulator build, chip family, OS version and settings. If an exact match is unavailable, treat a near match as a lead rather than a promise. Compatibility report reading explains which fields matter.
How should you investigate a failure?
Separate these questions:
- Does the application itself open?
- Does the game appear in the library?
- Does the game reach its title screen?
- Can you enter gameplay, use input and save?
- Does the problem start only in one location or scene?
Record the exact stage, build and error. Use game not showing for a missing entry and low FPS diagnosis for a running but slow session. For a game-specific starting point, read Ocarina of Time on Lichii.