Apple is set to host an event on October 30, where it is expected to unveil new iMacs and MacBooks. However, a new rumor suggests that the event could be focused on gaming and showcase the new M3 chip. This would be a significant departure for Apple, as the company has not shown much interest in producing gaming products. However, there are clues that suggest Apple may unveil gaming-related Mac products at the event.

During the recent launch of the iPhone 15 Pro, Apple highlighted the capabilities of its A17 chip, which can run graphically-demanding games and handle hardware-accelerated ray tracing. Ray tracing is a technology used to produce advanced lighting, reflections, and shadows in games. If Apple includes ray tracing support in the rumored M3 chip for Macs and MacBooks, it could significantly enhance the performance and quality of gaming on these devices.

One of the challenges for gaming on Macs is the limited availability of games compared to Windows 11. However, Apple’s VP, Tim Millet, has stated that developers will work with Apple to bring big-name games to Macs running Apple silicon. This includes games like Resident Evil 4 Remake, Death Stranding Director’s Cut, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage, which are major titles for PCs and consoles.

Gaming giant Capcom has also announced that Resident Evil Village will be coming to the iPhone 15 Pro and M1-powered iPads on October 30, the same date as Apple’s event. Additionally, Sony is planning to launch cloud streaming for PS5 games on the same day. While the timing may be coincidental, it adds intrigue to the possibility of gaming-related announcements at the event.

The timing of the event itself is also unusual, as Apple typically holds its events earlier in the day to accommodate different time zones. However, this event taking place during Japanese business hours has sparked speculation that a major Japanese game maker could make an appearance, such as Capcom, Sony, or Kojima Productions.

Apple has been making efforts to appeal to the gaming community in recent months. macOS Sonoma, the latest operating system for Macs, includes a Game Mode that enhances performance for gaming and improves compatibility with game controllers. Apple also introduced the Game Porting Toolkit to simplify the process of making games compatible with macOS.

While there is still some skepticism, if Apple does unveil gaming-related Macs and MacBooks with the new M3 chips, it could lead to exciting announcements for gamers. MacRumors has compiled various hints and rumors, suggesting that Apple’s event may bring significant advancements for Mac gaming. Only time will tell if Mac gaming will no longer be seen as a joke.