If you have been using Whisky to run Windows apps and games on your Mac, there is an important update: Whisky is no longer being actively maintained. The developer has officially confirmed that there will be no more feature updates, no fixes for games like Steam, and no plans to upgrade to newer Wine versions, such as Wine 8+.
While occasional updates might still arrive if future macOS versions break the app, like what happened with macOS 15.4, do not expect ongoing support or improvements.
The creator of Whisky has decided to step away from the project due to a combination of time constraints, lack of interest, and the challenges involved in maintaining the software. The project was never funded, and maintaining it as a solo effort while being a student became increasingly difficult.
Moreover, the developer expressed concerns that Whisky’s existence might actually be harming the Wine community, especially on macOS. Whisky is built on CrossOver (developed by CodeWeavers), but it does not contribute any new code or fixes. This “parasitic relationship,” as the developer described it, puts pressure on CrossOver’s sustainability, which is critical for keeping Wine functional on macOS.
If Whisky no longer meets your needs, the developer recommends switching to CrossOver. Many users misunderstand how CrossOver is priced. It is not a subscription. You buy a license and can use that version forever. Upgrading is cheaper than buying a new license, and you are not forced to upgrade every year. Discounts and sales are often available, so you do not always have to pay the full price.
CrossOver is developed by CodeWeavers, the same team that contributes directly to Wine, and their work is a big reason why Wine on macOS even exists today. Supporting them helps keep Wine alive and evolving.
While Whisky is being sunset, the developer is still active in the Mac community. They are now working on other projects.
Whisky was a powerful tool for Mac users wanting to run Windows software, and it helped simplify Wine’s complexity for many. Although it is the end of the road for Whisky, the developer’s contribution to the community remains valuable. If you need a reliable Wine-based solution for your Mac, CrossOver is now the best route.
