Optimized PC Games for Enhanced Controller Experience

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 offered by this input method. Adapting to alternative controls in these genres can be challenging. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, long absent from consoles 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 fast-paced movement or intense melee combat often pair perfectly with gamepads. Similar to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are intrinsically linked to controllers, particularly those originating on consoles and later ported to PC. What are the best controller-centric PC games?

Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2024 concluded with several notable releases, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force, all debuting within days of each other. These games generally perform better, or at least equally well, 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 isn't substantial.

Several upcoming PC game releases in the next month appear well-suited to controller use, though their actual performance remains to be seen:

• Freedom Wars Remastered – A PS Vita revival mirroring the Monster Hunter formula, making controller use logical.
• Tales of Graces f Remastered – The Tales series consistently benefits from gamepad control, and this remaster is expected to follow suit.
• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – The PC version of the remake played better with a controller, and Rebirth's combat system closely resembles its predecessor.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, typically indicating a controller-first design. However, keyboard and mouse should still be viable.

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

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Slightly Better With Gamepads