Controller-Enhanced PC Gaming Experience Unveiled: Enhanced Gameplay with Controllers

Generally, PC gaming is synonymous with keyboard and mouse control, and for good reason. Genres like first-person shooters and strategy games benefit significantly from the precision these input devices offer. Adapting to alternative controls can be challenging for these genres. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, historically console-absent due to perceived control limitations, now frequently appear on PlayStation and Xbox, though they often excel on PC.

While most PC game releases strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some titles are better suited to controllers. Games emphasizing reflex-based movement or fast-paced melee combat often pair perfectly with gamepads. Similar to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are strongly associated with controllers, particularly those originating on consoles before transitioning to PC. What are the top controller-friendly PC games?

Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2024 concluded strongly with several high-profile releases, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force. These titles generally perform better with keyboard and mouse. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might offer a slightly enhanced experience with a gamepad, though the difference is minimal.

Several upcoming PC games (releasing within the next month) show promise for controller use, though their actual performance remains to be seen:

• Freedom Wars Remastered – A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, likely best enjoyed with a controller.
• Tales of Graces f Remastered – The Tales series consistently plays better with gamepads, and this remaster is expected to follow suit.
• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – The PC version of the remake favored controllers, and Rebirth's combat system is very similar.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, typically suggesting a controller-centric experience, although keyboard and mouse will probably suffice.

A 2024 Soulslike game has also been added. Click below to jump to this entry.

Quick Links

• Another Crab's Treasure

1. Ys 10: Nordics

Slightly Better With Controllers