Apple OS Update
2024 Update: macOS Sequoia is confirmed to be included in this change.
Games #22 – #32 with 32-bit programs are no longer supported by 2019 and subsequent Apple versions Catalina, Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma, Sequoia, or later. Game #33 Midnight in Salem and #34 Mystery of the Seven Keys are not affected by this change and will run on Apple’s latest OS.
Dear Nancy Drew Fans,
Apple’s latest version of macOS, 10.15 Catalina, and 10.16 Big Sur may look a lot like earlier versions of the operating system, but its vastly different. As you may be aware, the biggest change is that Apple no longer supports older 32-bit apps or games in Apple’s 64-bit operating system. Unfortunately, this means that Catalina and Big Sur will block all older Nancy Drew Mac games (#22 – #32). Please be assured, that we are looking at all possible solutions, and hope to find one that is economically feasible, so that you can continue to enjoy your older Nancy Drew Mac games.
In the meantime, Apple unofficially recommends either that you keep an old Mac on hand that runs a pre-Catalina version of the OS or that you partition your current Mac so that it can start up with an older macOS version as well as Catalina or Big Sur. Additionally, another alternative is to buy a copy of Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion if you don’t already own one. These programs are designed mostly for running Windows on a Mac, but you can also use them to create a virtual machine that runs macOS in a window on your Mac desktop.
We apologize for this inconvenience and as soon as we have any additional information and a path forward, we will be sure to update you. We know and understand that you love replaying these classic games and that this is an important issue to many Mac players.
As always, thank you for supporting HeR Interactive and Nancy Drew Games.
Sincerely,
Team HeR Interactive
PS: If you would like to share your concern with Apple, please visit their contact support page here to enter an inquery or concern.
We always love hearing from our fans, so please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or questions with us at feedback@herinteractive.com.
Hello,
My name is Joanna Csillag and I have been playing Nancy Drew Games since I was very little. You may not even read this email but I just wanted to say, I really really love the Nancy Drew Games. I’m rooting for you guys that you hopefully figure out a solution to the new painful Catalina update from Apple. I really hope you figure out a way.
Good luck.
Hi Joanna! I appreciate your words of encouragement! It’s frustrating that Apple made that decision, and we are continuing to look for options in getting our Mac games to work on their new operating systems. 🙁
Mavis Ford I read all the Nancy Drew books as I grew up I am now 80 years…old…still love Nancy Drew and have played the computer games as well….would like to see more of them must look for new disks…..
Hello Mavis! It’s so great to hear more from Nancy Drew fans, especially at your age! If you ever have trouble finding more Nancy Drew games on discs, we offer all the titles as digital downloads for sale direct on our web site. 🙂
Hello,
I just bought two Nancy Drew Games and I just updated to 64-bit. Is there a way I can now get a refund since none of them work anymore?
Hi Michael, I’m sorry the games are not working on your machine. Please reach out to us with your order number and email address at customerservice@herinteractive.com. Thanks!
Hi, will the games work with 10.14.6?
Hi Molly! Take a look at each game’s web page for the exact system specs for the Mac versions. If something isn’t clear to you, please feel free to email us at techsupport@herinteractive.com and be ready to share your system details so we can help compare the game compatibility with your machine. Thanks!
Hi! Wondering if there were any updates on this? Especially in these times, would love to be able to play some of these games. Thank you for all your hard work!
Hello Anonymous! There have been no new updates since this post. 🙁 We cannot change what Apple has restricted, and have not found a new solution yet. I’m sorry!
I was not aware of this. I just bought and digitally downloaded games 22 and 23 and now I can’t even play them! I’ve emailed customer support with no reply… can I exchange them for newer ones that will work on my computer?
Hi Cassie! I’m sorry about Apple’s restrictions on their operating system. Thank you for emailing us – if you haven’t heard from us yet, please keep an eye out soon for a response. We have been backed up on email responses lately. Sorry about the delay!
Hi! I am the biggest Nancy Drew Game Fan! I’ve been playing them since I was little and after 18 years I still keep playing them, they are the best!! I am also having trouble with the Catalina update from Mac, I hope you fix it soon!
Thank you very much and love your games!!
Hi Mariana! Thanks for being such a great Nancy Drew fan! Unfortunately, we cannot change the decision from Apple on only allowing 32-bit games to run on their new operating system. However, we are constantly on the lookout for workarounds to help!
I have been a long time fan of everything Nancy Drew, and just recently rediscovered the computer games were still in existence. (Curtesy of a pandemic and quarantine I suppose). I upgraded from an 7+ year old HP laptop to a new Mac and I’m saddened to see that the games are no longer able to run on the Mac operating system. I’m anxiously awaiting solutions to this because I’d like to re-purchase the entire set of games rather than spending that money on an additional laptop to game on.
Hi Erica! I’m sorry about this – we cannot change Apple’s decision to not allow 32-bit games on their latest software update. As soon as we find a workaround, we will be sure to post about it!
SInce this warning message was only printed in tiny font on the page for the affected game (Trail of the Twister), I purchased it for my Mac running on Catalina without realizing there would be a problem. Can I please be refunded for the affected game? I have emailed about this already, but have not heard back.
Hello Sarah, I’m sorry about Apple’s 32-bit game restriction. As soon as we learn about a workaround, we will be sure to post about it. We apologize for the delayed response in our email, as we have been backed up with many messages. Please keep an eye out for our response soon!
I have a macOS Sierra version 10.12.6 will this game work on my Mac? thanks !
Hi Lydia! You can check the system requirements on the web page of the game you are looking into.
Hello there! My Mac is running on macOS Mojave 10.14.6 and I am still able to play Trail of the Twister and Secrets Can Kill Remastered. Will the other Mac games (#22-32) be able to played?
Hi Emily! To make sure the other titles will run on your operating system, take a look at the game web pages and see the system requirements. That will specify if it will work or not. 🙂
Hi there,
I downloaded this game and have Mojave for my OS—every time I try to open it, it comes up with “Nancy Drew – The Captive Curse quit unexpectedly. Click Reopen to open the application again. Click Report to see more detailed information and send a report to Apple.” Can you help?
Hi Mallory, would you please email us with this information at techsupport@herinteractive.com so we can help you further? Thanks!
Hi! I have the mojave 10.14.5 and I bought the Ghost of Blackmoor Manor before I updated to that operating system. It still works after the update though. Will other games ranging from game #22-#32 also work on Mojave now? Or does the Ghost of Blackmoore Manor only work because I downloaded it before I upgraded to Mojave?
Hi Amber! Are you referring to Ghost of Thornton Hall, or Curse of Blackmoor Manor? Either way, you are very lucky to have it working on Mojave! Our games do not work well on Mojave or Catalina.
You guys should have this noted on the game pages…I just purchased a game and now I can’t play. Thanks.
Hi Kelsey, this note has been added to the system requirements in addition to a link to this post. I’m sorry about Apple’s 32-bit game restriction. 🙁 Once we find a workaround for their change, we will be sure to post about it. In the meantime, feel free to email us at customerservice@herinteractive.com and let us know which game you purchased.
This should be posted somewhere higher or in bigger font, I never had a chance to see that one little note WAAAY at the bottom of the page.
Hello Mackenzie, I’m sorry you missed our important message. Since many others requested we make this more visible, we have added it just below each game page under the system specs in a larger, more noticeable button. I’m sorry that Apple has restricted 32-bit games. 🙁
I have emailed and followed all steps for a refund but I am being told I can’t receive a refund. Whoever handles this department doesn’t know how to find my order apparently. How ridiculous.
Hello Kelsey! Did you email customerservice@herinteractive.com or Digital River?
I just purchased Silent Spy and became aware of this issue trying to install it. I don’t really want to wait for an update because I don’t know how long that will take and I have not received an email back from the tech team. I would just like a refund since I can’t play the game or at least a way to exchange for a game that works.
Hello Hallie, I’m sorry you haven’t been able to play your game. Keep an eye out for our response email – I apologize for the delay as we have received many emails on the subject and want to get to everyone.
I hope you guys can find a solution soon, we were already having fun in the little corner of 22-32 and now that’s gone 🙁 I lost all my games-esp with buying the mac only versions. At least I have the memories + might try to Midnight at Salem for a quarantine game! Please please, I hope more can be available to Mac users!
As soon as we have a work around, we will be quick to share it! 🙁
Does this mean I can still play #32 on Catalina? Or is that one excluded?
Hi moob, I believe only MID can be played normal when on Catalina. Games 1-32 are unplayable on the new Mac OS because Apple restricts 32-bit games.
Unfortunately I can no longer play any of your games, because I have a Catalina Macbook. That change must have been quite a blow, and I’m disappointed in Apple and in the gaming industry in general, which has sadly prioritized mindless shooters and stupid racing games. I see that people are really angry about the graphics and the other changes in the Salem ND game, but I am ALL FOR anything that keeps these games coming! I think we’d all really like to see smart, charming mystery games like these make a big comeback, and we support you. I have many favorites, but The Curse of Blackmoor Manor and The Captive Curse were your shining achievements (I wish I could re-play them!). More like those, plz!
Hello Jessica! Thank you for your encouragement and support! I’m sorry about Apple’s decision with restricting 32-bit games. 🙁 We have no more updates at this time to help our players replay their older Mac titles, but when we do, we will be quick to share any workarounds we find!
I understand the issue with the new Mac updates, but it should be posted on the website main page and near game selections. I have been a Nancy Drew fan since ’01 & was really excited to download ones I missed out. Though the ‘Midnight in Salem’ downloaded fine, the other 3 games i purchased did not download due to these technical issues and I am deeply disappointed. Phone calls are being unanswered which I understand also that times are tough now. But I want to get a refund to be processed for the other games as soon as possible. It’s not inconvenient really, just unfortunate.
Hi! Do you guys have plans to upgrade your games to be compatible with the new 64 bit requirements? I’ve also always wondered if there would ever someday be Apple versions of the older Windows-only ND games. I’d give anything to be able to download Treasure in the Royal Tower on my Mac! Is any of this a possibility, even if it’s far in the future? Thank you!
Hi Chrissi! We do not have plans at the moment to re-master our older games. Sorry! 🙁 If we can find a way around Apple’s restrictions to 64-bit games, we will share that info with everyone.
Hi HerInteractive! Does this effect being able to play the older games through Wineskin? Would Wineskin be able to play the newer games? Thanks for all your help!
I anticipate this means we will never be able to play these games on a newer mac? That is how it appears. I am personally not interested in playing Midnight in Salem as it does not have the classic feel I have always loved in these games, but can no longer play any of the old ones. I can probably download these onto my Dell work computer, but cannot pay for a new download for each game.
Is there any update on solutions for Nancy Drew games? Would really like to start playing again. Thank you!
Hi Talon, sorry, we do not have any new news or updates to share yet. We are still trying to figure out a better workaround Apple’s restrictions.
Talon, I don’t know if you have figured out a way to play your games but I ended up buying an external hard drive for my Mac. I then installed MacOs Mojave on the external hard drive. That allowed me to play the Nancy Drew Mac games I hadn’t finished playing through the external hard drive.
Hi! I just updated my computer and now I can’t play a game I purchased a few hours ago. I do have an old Mac, so I’m wondering if it’s possible to download it to that computer? I never got an email receipt for it.
Hi Katie! If you have an older Mac with an older operating system, you may be able to move the game. Please contact us at techsupport@herinteractive.com and let them know what operating systems are on both of your Macs, and specify which game. Ask them for guidance on moving the game files over to the older Mac.
Hello! Are there any updates regarding this? Is an access portal in discussion, similar to Origin? I would love to purchase and keep an updated macOS.
Hi Shelby! Unfortunately, Apple has restricted their latest operating system to only 64bit games. Our games are 32bit. If we ever find a workaround, we will be quick to share it on our web site and with our Mac players.
Hi there, more than likely you’ll have to wait 5-10 years or longer for a update because this is how Her Interactive works! They don’t do ANYTHING speedy. I trust there a company with TONS of money seeing how they can afford to release a new game once in every 5-10 years. It’s shocking to know there still in business in my personal views. I “used” to love to play Nancy Drew games but ever since they ditched there 2 games a year speed I haven’t played any and moved onto playing games that come out much faster and quicker. Just so you know there Nintendo Breath of the Wild game which is the most expensive game ive ever seen took 4 years to develop yet it takes this company 5 year’s to make a game and its not even close to as big as Breath of the Wild. Sorry for the digs Her Interactive but you know i do have a point and i still find it amazing you’re still in business. Tells me you must have money to burn or something. Lol.
Will they still work from Steam?
Hi Rachel! I think it is the same situation. The game itself (no matter where you purchase it) will not work on the new Mac Catalina operating system. Apple has restricted 32bit games. If we ever find a workaround, we will be quick to share it on our web site and with our players.
Since adjusting the games to work within Apple’s restrictions sounds incredibly difficult, is there any chance that you’ll consider releasing more of the games on ipad? I LOVED Thornton Hall! I was a little worried about how it would feel on my ipad, but honestly I think I enjoyed it more on there than I would have on my desktop. Maybe releasing older titles on ipad is less involved than getting everything to work with the new Apple OS updates?
Hi Emily! Glad to hear you enjoyed Ghost of Thornton Hall on the iPad! We will keep in mind your request for future Nancy Drew games on this platform. For now, we are only focusing on PC and Mac.
I was excited to buy the Nancy Drew game only to find out after I purchased it, its not compatible with this new update. Is there a way I can a refund for this?
Hello Fatumata! Please contact us at customerservice@herinteractive.com so we can help you out, further. Thanks!
Will the games still work with Apple’s Boot Camp? Thanks
Hi Seph! I cannot promise on how well Apple products perform, but we have heard from some fellow fans that have had success in using BootCamp for the games. 🙂
Is Midnight in Salem compatible with apples new 64-bit update? I keep seeing things about games up until 32, but this is game 33. Also I just purchased a game that isn’t compatible with my computer, is there a way to get a refund?
Hi Hannah! MID is for sure compatible with the new Catalina update. It’s really only games before that one that have been restricted by Apple. We haven’t found any workarounds other than what is posted here, yet.
Just curious,
I have a Macbook. Does this mean that if I purchase VMware Fusion or the Parallels desktop you linked, that I will be able to play the older games? Or does the Catalina update get in the way of that always?
Also, could I use CrossOver instead of those to play the older games that don’t have Mac versions like Blackmoor Manor for example if running Catalina?
So I also have a virtual PC that I pay for so I can play the old Nancy Drew games that don’t work on a Mac. Is there any way I can get my Mac games to work on the Windows PC? I get that this is an issue and I know you guys are trying hard to resolve it, but it has been several months and there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. So maybe offering a Windows version to those who own the Mac versions is a starting point? I still have all my product codes I can supply as proof of purchase.
I just want to say, much like everyone else… I am rooting for this game. I remember playing this when I was young and I cannot wait to play again in the future. Nancy Drew means so much to me so I hope all works out well.
Thank you for keeping us updated with the works in progress. I look forward to seeing what all you have in store from us!
Thanks for you encouragement, Gracie! We are disappointed in Apple’s update restrictions. 🙁
What is to stop HER Interactive to dig out the old source code for all the games and recompile to 64 bit? Surely it is not that hard? We need all the Nancy Drew games to work properly on newer OS and recompiling would be so quick and easy.
Hi Steve, it would require time and money. Unfortunately, our company is small, but we are aware of the large fan group who desire to replay their old Nancy Drew games on their newer Macs.
Hi Little Jackalope. I enjoy playing the Nancy Drew games, also. I have several older games of N.D. that won’t play on my computer. And I recently purchased and downloaded “Midnight in Salem” and it won’t run. I think the reason is that my processor is 2.5 GHz and it requires at least a 3. I’d I feel foolish for buying without checking to see if my computer meets the requirements. I really can’t afford to spend money on something I can’t use. I hope you’ll be able to help me with this.
Hi Mary, if you can get the game to the main menu, you can adjust the in-game settings to lower quality, as that might help. If you have additional questions, please feel free to email us at customerservice@herinteractive.com. Thanks!
Hello, Her Interactive,
If time and money are the barriers (and Apple isn’t offering solutions), may I suggest starting a Kickstarter or similar to raise extra funds? I’m a huge Nancy Drew fan and I’ve been playing these games since you started making them in the early 2000s, and I for one would love to donate and help you update the games, especially if contributing means I get to re-play them with shiny new graphics!
This is very thoughtful, and thank you for your support! We once tried Kickstarter, but not enough fans are interested in that method. As soon as we find a better workaround for the Mac/Apple issue, we will be fast to share it!
I really wish that I could play my older Nancy Drew games. I hope there is a fix soon. I have been playing these games since I was in high school. Rooting for you all to get this figured out.
Hi Erin! If we ever find a better workaround solution for Apple restricting the games, we will be quick to share it with everyone.
If you don’t mind me asking how much would it cost to update a game from 32 bit to 64 bit?
I’m not entirely sure, but I’m also not sure how possible it is. The old games used a proprietary engine, so that complicates the answer.
I can’t tell you how thrilled I was to find out I can buy these games digitally. I have been playing since the very beginning, and I just recently told someone how much I love the Nancy Drew games. Seeing Midnight in Salem just made my night. Thank you so much fo bringing Nancy back.
Aww, I’m glad to hear it, Cara! Thanks for being such a great Nancy Drew fan!
Hi
I downloaded this without reading the FAQ. I have a Mac OS which is Catalina 10.15.7
I do understand that I should have checked the FAQs before downloading.
But is there any way I can get a refund cause this game is practically useless for me if I am not able to install and play.
Again I know its a mistake from my side but I urge you to do something about this
Hello Gauri! I’m sorry the game isn’t working for you. 🙁 Please reach out to us at customerservice@herinteractive.com with your order number. Thank you!
I know this might seem like a silly question but will these games play on my iPad? It says it is a software version 13.6 and a 5th generation iPad. Thanks for the help!
Hi Junie! The only games that were compatible with iPads were Codes & Clues, and the iPad version for Ghost of Thornton Hall. 🙁
Hello
I love Nancy Drew games, playing them since my middle school, first on PC with CDs, then after I purchased MacBook during my uni I got these games from the App Store, now I am a working adult, but still love to replay them. I updated my mac to Catalina just a month ago, kind regret it since all my Nancy Drew games are not available anymore. Is there a chance HI team is working on it? Can we expect the updated version of games soon by any chance? Thank you.
Hello Batima! Since Apple has restricted 32-bit games, the older Nancy Drew games will not work on Catalina. This is the only workaround we know of here. However, our future games will indeed be compatible with the newest operating systems.
Hi Little Jackalope,
I just wanted to say I appreciate all you guys are doing over at HER Interactive. I hope you are able to get Nancy Drew games back up and running. I wish there was more as fans that we could do to support you, such as a funding page? I know many of us are anxious to get these amazing games back on Mac, which is the only computer I have, as do many others.
Would love to help out in any way possible, maybe you have some ideas? Out of curiosity, are you able to release information on what method you guys are using to resolve this?
Thanks a bunch and from all your fans: WE LOVE YOU! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
Hi SupaFan96! Thank you for your love and support! This is the only solution we have at this time. We have tried crowdfunding for other projects in the past, but we didn’t receive enough support, so I presume we would have a tough time with that method. If we find a better solution, we will share it with everyone.
Can I just clarify even if the Apple Store on a computer states that the games will run on OS X 10.7.5 or later they won’t? Wanting to purchase from you guys but thought i would just check first!
Also I just downloaded MIS because I read here that it would work, however its not? How do I move forward with this problem?
Hi Gabrielle! Take a look at the game specifications and requirements for each game on their respective web pages. That will help to identify if the game will work on your computer. If you need help with this, please reach out to us at techsupport@herinteractive.com. Thanks!
Just bought two game downloads off of Amazon only to find out the same thing as everyone said above… It’s now November, are there any updates? It seems like this would be top priority to fix…
Hello! Any updates on a fix for older Nancy Drew games to be played on newer Mac updated computers? Thanks so much!
Hi Shannon! We don’t have any new methods to share yet, but once we discover a new workaround, we will share it asap!
I recently upgraded my Mac to OS Big Sur and I would try to install the Secrets Can Kill REMASTERED and the installation is NOT supported on my current Mac software. Kinda bummed about this now.
Hi Bill, we are very disappointed that Apple set that restriction to 64-bit games. If we discover a new workaround, we will be quick to share it.
Is there any update on this? I had to get my macbook replaced which was running mojave and my nancy drew games were fine. Now that my new one is on catalina I’m missing them greatly!
Hello Skyleguy! We don’t have any news or updates to share on this. Once we discover a new or different workaround to Apple’s 64-bit restriction, we will be quick to share it.
Will the Nancy Drew games prior to #33 work on Mac iOS 10.13.6?
Hi Celia! We have mixed responses on the success rate of the games on High Sierra. Take a look at the game web pages for system requirements so you can compare your computer. If you need help, please contact us at customerservice@herinteractive.com. Thanks!
2 questions: is there any update about these running on 64-bit Macs? Hoping so, since it’s been almost a year! Also, what are the chances you guys will go back to the original style games instead of the 3D style of Midnight in Salem? That game was the biggest disappointment of any Nancy Drew game. Not sure if you guys read reviews out there, but they’re just awful. Hoping Her Interactive listens to their “fans”!
Hello Brenda – thanks for your feedback. I will pass along the info to our team. We do read every review on every site that we sell Midnight in Salem, so we have a good idea of what everyone likes and dislikes – that way we can make the correct changes to the future games. As for the Mac issues – we haven’t found any other workaround at this time, but if or when we do, we will be quick to update everyone!
I’m just here as a superfan to ditto Brenda’s suggestion. The old style was much more nancy drew than the 3d way. and i missed the classic inventory option as well. Many many fans liked the old style better. I appreciate all of your guys’ effort though. I know youre a small company and trying hard…. but if it isnt broken dont fix it…..
Hello,
I’m interested in buying a game but have a 2016 Mac. Would these work on that?
Hi Abi! Check out a game’s requirements on the web page, and then you can compare that info with your own computer specs. If you need help, feel free to email us at techsupport@herinteractive.com.
Hi
I have downloaded macOS Big Sur 11.0 on my mac. Will the Nancy drew Salem game be compatible to run?
Hello Ellen! Midnight in Salem should be able to work on the new operating system. Be sure to check the game requirements against your machine to see if it will run. If you need any help with this, feel free to contact us at techsupport@herinteractive.com.
hello, I have recently updated my mac to the ios big sur & I can now no longer play any of the games I have purchased, except for midnight in salem. this is honestly very upsetting since I have been playing these games since I was in elementary school. will there be any sort of updates for the games we have already purchased or some sort of work around for this, so us players who can no longer play the games, can play them? I truly would love to play these on my mac & not have to rebuy them for a windows laptop.
Hello jade g. Have you tried this workaround we have described here? At this time, this is the only solution we have. If we learn of any better solution, we will be quick to share it with everyone.
Please consider putting a team to work on converting all the games for Macs, if you do find a work around. I miss having access to all of these games and the only reason I haven’t updating my OS is because I want to play the ones I can on my laptop.
Has there been any update? Would really love to keep playing but have the new MacOS Catalina update. Been patiently waiting to play more games than Midnight in Salem. Already played it 3 times.
“playonmac” seems to work with Catalina. I’ve had success playing my recently downloaded games (12/20/20). You just need to go into mac privacy to allow the app to run.
How did you do it?
Hi Fellow Nancy Drew Fans,
I found that the easiest way to work around this is to get a virtual PC; I subscribe to one from Shadow. The PC is secure and continuously updated with security software that is part of your subscription. I was able to get all my downloaded games for Mac to work using this interface. I found that partitioning my hard drive took way too much memory. The virtual PC is accessed using an internet connection. Or just purchase a PC laptop. Either way, you get to play ALL the old games, not just the ones for Mac. I opted for the virtual PC because I didn’t want to keep track of two computers; wanted everything on one device.
In all honesty, YOU are the software company that sells mac version games. It is YOUR responsibility to be pro-active in design & updates for your customers making sure your product does what you advertise it to do. I think it is poor business sense that you blame Apple publicly on your site for your failed product design. Either support your product or don’t offer it if you refuse to keep up with the platform you claim the games use.
EXACTLY. Don’t offer the product if it doesn’t work. I just wasted too much time before discovering mac downloaded games don’t work on mac, and now have to try to get a refund. VERY frustrating.
I downloaded the Mac version and now it doesn’t work. Can I exchange for a PC version or get my money back?
Hello Car! Please email us your order number and let us know which game to the address customerservice@herinteractive.com. That way, we can help you out further!
Just wondering if any progress has been made towards making the games playable on MacBook Pro? I’ve always loved the games and I hate that I can’t play them because I have a Mac.
Aloha! Any update on this with the changes made to Macs? Iʻm curious since itʻs been a year and I would love to play some of my purchased games this summer. And try some new games too!
Hi Kaylyn,
I reached out to our tech support and they wanted me to send along this message, although I believe it is the same update they have been sending for over the past year. They are always working to try and find a solution and I hope to have a “new” update for you soon! Hope it helps! In the mean time –
With the start of Mojave, Apple stopped supporting 32-bit apps, which all our games are besides Midnight in Salem. Some users have found the tips below to help.
– Please try adjusting the system display settings: System Preferences > Displays > Display Tab > Resolution: (select Scaled) > (select ‘Looks like 1440 x 900’)
– Please try starting your MacBook in safe mode and then trying to run your game. Here is how run your computer in safe mode: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262
We are aware of the problem and are currently looking into all available and affordable options to address this. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.herinteractive.com/about-us/news/february-letter-from-her-interactive/
If you would prefer a refund, you are certainly welcome to one. Unfortunately, we do not handle payments/refunds/billing/shipping issues for online store orders at this office. Digital River is our online store provider and they handle all billing/shipping issues, so you will need to contact them directly. Digital River customer service can be reached at 866-585-3251, M-F, during normal business hours or by emailing herinteractive.en.cs@digitalriver.com anytime. We apologize for this inconvenience.
I had recently bought 5 Nancy Drew games using the App Store before the 2020 Mac software update. I am still not able to play these games, even though it has been one year since the software change. There has been no app updates or ways to accommodate consumers and fans like myself. What can you do in order for me to not have totally wasted $100?
Hi Mary,
I reached out to our tech support and they wanted me to send along this message. Hope it helps!
With the start of Mojave, Apple stopped supporting 32-bit apps, which all our games are besides Midnight in Salem. Some users have found the tips below to help.
– Please try adjusting the system display settings: System Preferences > Displays > Display Tab > Resolution: (select Scaled) > (select ‘Looks like 1440 x 900’)
– Please try starting your MacBook in safe mode and then trying to run your game. Here is how run your computer in safe mode: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262
We are aware of the problem and are currently looking into all available and affordable options to address this. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.herinteractive.com/about-us/news/february-letter-from-her-interactive/
If you would prefer a refund, you are certainly welcome to one. Unfortunately, we do not handle payments/refunds/billing/shipping issues for online store orders at this office. Digital River is our online store provider and they handle all billing/shipping issues, so you will need to contact them directly. Digital River customer service can be reached at 866-585-3251, M-F, during normal business hours or by emailing herinteractive.en.cs@digitalriver.com anytime. We apologize for this inconvenience.
I enjoy playing the old Nancy Drew Games and with the Catalina software, I really miss playing them. Will HerInteractive going to remake the older games that will run on Catalina in the future?
I would like to suggest that for those of us who own games in the now unusable MAC format, perhaps HerInteractive could offer a discounted version of the game(s) in PC format. I would be more than willing to pay $2-3 for each game to replace the purchased MAC versions.
Hi Tania,
I reached out to our tech support and they wanted me to send along this message. Hope it helps!
With the start of Mojave, Apple stopped supporting 32-bit apps, which all our games are besides Midnight in Salem. Some users have found the tips below to help.
– Please try adjusting the system display settings: System Preferences > Displays > Display Tab > Resolution: (select Scaled) > (select ‘Looks like 1440 x 900’)
– Please try starting your MacBook in safe mode and then trying to run your game. Here is how run your computer in safe mode: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262
We are aware of the problem and are currently looking into all available and affordable options to address this. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.herinteractive.com/about-us/news/february-letter-from-her-interactive/
If you would prefer a refund, you are certainly welcome to one. Unfortunately, we do not handle payments/refunds/billing/shipping issues for online store orders at this office. Digital River is our online store provider and they handle all billing/shipping issues, so you will need to contact them directly. Digital River customer service can be reached at 866-585-3251, M-F, during normal business hours or by emailing herinteractive.en.cs@digitalriver.com anytime. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Is there any sort of update on if the older Nancy Drew games could be updated for Mac in the future?
Hi Maddie,
I reached out to our tech support and they wanted me to send along this message. Hope it helps!
With the start of Mojave, Apple stopped supporting 32-bit apps, which all our games are besides Midnight in Salem. Some users have found the tips below to help.
– Please try adjusting the system display settings: System Preferences > Displays > Display Tab > Resolution: (select Scaled) > (select ‘Looks like 1440 x 900’)
– Please try starting your MacBook in safe mode and then trying to run your game. Here is how run your computer in safe mode: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262
We are aware of the problem and are currently looking into all available and affordable options to address this. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.herinteractive.com/about-us/news/february-letter-from-her-interactive/
If you would prefer a refund, you are certainly welcome to one. Unfortunately, we do not handle payments/refunds/billing/shipping issues for online store orders at this office. Digital River is our online store provider and they handle all billing/shipping issues, so you will need to contact them directly. Digital River customer service can be reached at 866-585-3251, M-F, during normal business hours or by emailing herinteractive.en.cs@digitalriver.com anytime. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Hey Everyones, I discovered a way on the newer Macs that you can still play Nancy Drew games !! Try googling how to use Boot Camp Assistant. Basically, what it allows you to do is download and use Microsoft on your Mac Book. This way, you have you Mac programs on one hard drive, and ALSO have a windows computer ( software) on the same computer. It easily allows you to switch back and forth, while maintaining your Mac’s updated software. I spent all day googling different programs which allow for ” partitioning”, panelling and other options. This was the easiest on my Mac, and allowed me to keep the most of my storage.
Would you be willing to provide a PC version of the game to those of us with licenses specific to Macs that no longer work? I have 6 game licenses on my MacBook that are unplayable and could potentially put them on a PC if I had the correct license, but I definitely don’t want to have to repurchase all the games to be able to use them. I have order confirmation numbers showing original proof of purchase.
Hi Briana,
I reached out to our tech support and they wanted me to send along this message. Hope it helps!
We are aware of the problem and are currently looking into all available and affordable options to address this. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.herinteractive.com/about-us/news/february-letter-from-her-interactive/
If you would prefer a refund, you are certainly welcome to one. Unfortunately, we do not handle payments/refunds/billing/shipping issues for online store orders at this office. Digital River is our online store provider and they handle all billing/shipping issues, so you will need to contact them directly. Digital River customer service can be reached at 866-585-3251, M-F, during normal business hours or by emailing herinteractive.en.cs@digitalriver.com anytime. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Hi Indy!
Just so you are aware, Digital River did not provide me a refund for these licenses and has not yet been able to provide me any solution. If this changes, I will post here with an update.
I am continuing to try and obtain a refund or even a credit/exchange/code months later to obtain PC licenses in lieu of the Mac licenses that no longer work.
I did follow the instructions below to use Boot Camp to partition my Macbook’s harddrive to run Windows. However, the Mac licenses do not work. I’ll try and see if there is a solution for making this work, but am presently unaware of one.
I appreciate your help and responses to the customers on this thread.
CAP & TMB are Mac compatible games, so will the 2 pack run on Mac despite the fact that the case says PC DVD – ROM SOFTWARE?
Hi! I was wondering if there are any updates or any sight of a solution anytime soon? It has been almost a year an a half already with no progress…this is quite upsetting for myself and many Nancy Drew fans out there who want to play these games, seeing no progress after this long of a time is very discouraging.
Hi Lera,
I reached out to our tech support and they wanted me to send along this message. Hope it helps!
With the start of Mojave, Apple stopped supporting 32-bit apps, which all our games are besides Midnight in Salem. Some users have found the tips below to help.
– Please try adjusting the system display settings: System Preferences > Displays > Display Tab > Resolution: (select Scaled) > (select ‘Looks like 1440 x 900’)
– Please try starting your MacBook in safe mode and then trying to run your game. Here is how run your computer in safe mode: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262
We are aware of the problem and are currently looking into all available and affordable options to address this. Please visit the following link for more information: https://www.herinteractive.com/about-us/news/february-letter-from-her-interactive/
If you would prefer a refund, you are certainly welcome to one. Unfortunately, we do not handle payments/refunds/billing/shipping issues for online store orders at this office. Digital River is our online store provider and they handle all billing/shipping issues, so you will need to contact them directly. Digital River customer service can be reached at 866-585-3251, M-F, during normal business hours or by emailing herinteractive.en.cs@digitalriver.com anytime. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Interesting how Apple announced in 2018 that newer system updates wouldn’t run 32-bit games(which is silly on their part) and yet in 2020 HERinteractive announces it as if it is a surprise. Is it still unfortunate, yes, however do not just blame
APPLE.
18 months later and no closer to a fix?
Hi IMissNancy, you can try reaching out to our tech support email at techsupport@herinteractive.com but unfortunately, I believe this is an issue with Apple and many other gaming companies are trying to find a workaround as well. The one workaround we feel comfortable recommending at this point is Apple’s own product Boot Camp. Boot Camps is actually an official software produced and released by Apple, it assists users in installing Microsoft Windows operating systems on Intel-based Macintosh computers.
After this time that has past from the intial point of the issue last year, ha there been any progress to the “workaround” tech support has supposedly been working towards or on? Im trying to finish my Nancy Drew game Sea of Darkness as well as invest and my 2015 Macbook Air runs Big Sur OS. Im eager for a solution since the update, I havent been able to finish my game let alone open it. please and thank you for all the hard work and continuation of our
Hi Cherise, you can try reaching out to our tech support email at techsupport@herinteractive.com but unfortunately, I believe this is an issue with Apple and many other gaming companies are trying to find a workaround as well. The one workaround we feel comfortable recommending at this point is Apple’s own product Boot Camp. Boot Camps is actually an official software produced and released by Apple, it assists users in installing Microsoft Windows operating systems on Intel-based Macintosh computers. -Indy
Look below. I posted a tutorial. You can play games using Boot Camp. It comes pre installed on any Mac 2015 and newer.
It’s not that hard. I wish Her Interactive would have done some research and posted an update for those who want to continue to play their games!
Mac 2015 and later comes with a program called Boot Camp. It is completely free, and very easy to use.
Go to Applications, Utilities, and click Boot Camp Assistant.
You are able to change the size of your partition. Choose the size wisely. You cannot change the size later.
I chose to make mine 60gb. I only needed it for Nancy Drew games. You can uninstall and install new games if you run out of space.
Anyway, wait for it to partition your hard drive. From there it will install Windows 10 for FREE.
To switch over to windows, restart your Mac and hold the Option key. It will start in Windows. Then you can play whatever 32 bit games you want. I have Steam, so I just launch the games from Steam with no issues.
You’re welcome for the solution that was not offered to you years ago.
Hi Dee! You are so right about using Boot Camp! I started suggesting it around this past September. We have just been directing those interested to Boot Camp’s website. When it is not hosted by us I generally just direct fans to the specific website and do not provide instructions. -Indy
Would love to see you eventually make more of the games available for MAC. I miss playing the Nancy Drew Games.
I bought a game but cannot play it because I have the Mac update. Can I please get a refund?
Hey any Nancy Drew fans out there! If Boot Camp doesn’t want to work for you like it did for me there’s a video on YouTube Called “How to play 32-bit/ unsupported games on Mac OS.” Its a super easy watch and the program it uses is almost like wineskin. Be warned it only does this for games on Steam, but I’m pretty sure most if not all Nancy Drew Games are on Steam. I was super excited to use it and it works amazing! How to play 32-Bit / Unsupported Steam Games on Mac OS Catalina | Easiest Method hope this helps anyone like it did me!!!
Hello Her Interactive! I miss Nancy Drew so much! Unfortunately my mac version (monterey) doesn’t support older games. Can you please tell me when the new ones will come out? I’m sure all the fans are waiting! Only the last game has a bad interface, don’t do that again please!
Hi! No date announcement, just yet 🙁 -Indy
FYI, for users who have a Mac with an M1 chip, Bootcamp will not work.
Get yourself a copy of Parallels for Mac and run ALL of your Nancy Drew games without worry!
xo
Just got a Mac and I must say I’m disappointed. I know HeR Interactive didn’t know this update was coming, but it’s been nearly two years! They tell us they’re looking for “economical” answers, but we’re supposed to purchase $100 software to play their games. And that’s just the newer games – #21 and before aren’t offered for Mac. As a devoted ND Detective who has all of the digital copies for Mac and most of the physical copies, I can’t believe I might not be able to play anymore.
Hi! Mac Ventura 13.3.1 (a) here! Looking to start the next generation on these games. I have a 10 year old in October. Any updates?
Great post. Thank u.
Hi, my sister bought a game recently because they are back in the App Store and we thought that it was because they had finally updated the games, but we couldn’t open it. Is there any news on the update of the old games?