steam game is damaged and can't be opened mac

Guri Bee

3 min read

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01-10-2024

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If you're a Mac user and have encountered the frustrating message that a Steam game is "damaged and can't be opened," you're not alone. This issue has been reported by many players and can disrupt your gaming experience. In this article, we'll explore common causes, troubleshooting steps, and additional tips to ensure you can get back to playing your favorite games.

Understanding the Issue

The error message may appear for several reasons, including:

• Corrupted game files: Sometimes, files within the game can become corrupted due to incomplete downloads or unexpected shutdowns.
• Security settings: Mac's Gatekeeper may prevent the game from running if it considers it unverified.
• File permission issues: Certain permissions may restrict the game from launching correctly.

By understanding the root causes, you can better address the problem.

Common Questions & Answers

Q1: Why does my Steam game say it is damaged?

A1: This typically indicates that the game files have been corrupted or improperly installed. This can occur due to various reasons, such as a failed download or interference from antivirus software.

Q2: How can I fix a damaged Steam game on Mac?

A2: Here are several steps you can follow to resolve this issue:

1. Verify Integrity of Game Files:

   • Open Steam and go to your Library.
   • Right-click on the game and select "Properties."
   • Navigate to the "Local Files" tab and click on "Verify Integrity of Game Files."
   • This process will check for missing or corrupted files and replace them.

2. Reinstall the Game:

   • If verifying the files doesn’t work, try uninstalling and then reinstalling the game. This ensures that you get a fresh copy without any corrupted files.

3. Check Gatekeeper Settings:

   • Sometimes, macOS Gatekeeper can block apps from unverified developers.
   • Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General, and check if there is an option to allow the game to run. If it's there, click "Allow."

4. Check File Permissions:

   • Navigate to the game folder within your Library.
   • Right-click on the game file, select “Get Info,” and ensure you have the right permissions set.

5. Remove Download Cache:

   • In Steam, go to Steam > Preferences > Downloads, and click on "Clear Download Cache."
   • This can resolve issues related to corrupted downloads.

Q3: What if none of these solutions work?

A3: If you are still facing the issue, consider reaching out to Steam Support or checking community forums. Other players may have encountered the same problem and can offer additional solutions.

Additional Tips for Mac Users

1. Keep Your macOS Updated: Keeping your operating system updated can solve compatibility issues and bugs that might cause games to malfunction.

2. Run a Disk Utility: Use Disk Utility to repair disk permissions. Go to Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility, select your drive, and run "First Aid" to fix any potential issues.

3. Check for System Resource Conflicts: Sometimes, background applications can interfere with the running of games. Close unnecessary applications while gaming to maximize performance.

4. Use External Storage Cautiously: If you're running games from external storage, ensure they are connected properly, as this can sometimes cause file corruption.

5. Consult Game-Specific Forums: Some games may have unique issues on Mac. Checking forums for that specific game can lead to tailored solutions that work.

Conclusion

Experiencing a "damaged and can't be opened" error on Steam can be frustrating, especially for Mac users eager to dive into their favorite titles. By following the outlined troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue. Remember to verify game files, check system settings, and consider reinstalling games if needed.

If you continue facing challenges, don't hesitate to leverage Steam's support resources and community forums. Every gamer encounters hiccups, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can minimize downtime and get back to enjoying your gaming experience.

Attribution: Portions of this content were inspired by discussions on GitHub and various community forums where players shared their experiences and solutions regarding similar issues.