PC Games That Play Better With A Controller

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 can be challenging for these genres. Indeed, grand strategy and real-time strategy games spent years bypassing consoles due to the perceived difficulty of gamepad adaptation; however, PlayStation and Xbox ports are now commonplace, though these titles often excel most on PC.

While many PC releases strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some PC games are arguably better suited to controllers. Games emphasizing fast-paced movement or intense melee combat are often ideal for gamepad use. Similar to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are strongly associated with controllers, particularly those originating on consoles before transitioning to PC. So, which PC games shine with a controller?

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 well with keyboard and mouse, and arguably better than with a controller. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might be slightly better with a gamepad, though the difference is minimal.

Several upcoming PC game releases (as of January 7, 2025) show promise for superior controller play, though this remains to be confirmed:

• Freedom Wars Remastered: A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, suggesting natural controller compatibility.
• 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 original remake favored controller use on PC, and Rebirth's combat system appears very similar.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, often indicating a controller-centric design. However, keyboard and mouse may still prove viable.

A 2024 Soulslike title has also been added to this list. See below for details.

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Slightly Better with Controllers