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 setup. Adapting to alternative controls in these genres can be challenging. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, long exclusive to PC due to perceived gamepad control limitations, now frequently appear on PlayStation and Xbox, though they often excel on PC.
While many PC releases strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some games 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. So, what are the top controller-friendly PC games?
Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2024 concluded strongly with releases like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force, all debuting within days of each other. Most of these titles are not only compatible with keyboard and mouse but arguably better played with them. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might offer a slightly improved experience with a gamepad, though the difference isn't substantial.
Several upcoming PC games, releasing within the next month, show promise as potential controller standouts, though this remains to be confirmed:
- Freedom Wars Remastered – A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, suggesting controller compatibility.
- Tales of Graces f Remastered – The Tales series consistently performs 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 mirrors its predecessor.
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, usually implying controller priority. Keyboard and mouse should still function adequately, however.
A 2024 Soulslike game has also been added. Click below to jump to that entry.
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