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 in these genres can be challenging. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, historically console-averse due to control limitations, now frequently appear on PlayStation and Xbox, though they often excel on PC.
While many PC releases incorporate keyboard and mouse support, some games are better suited to controllers. Games emphasizing fast-paced movement or intense melee combat are often ideal for gamepad use. Similarly to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are intrinsically linked to controllers, especially franchises originating on consoles and later ported to PC. So, what are the best controller-friendly PC games?
Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2024 concluded strongly 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. Most of these games are excellent with keyboard and mouse, arguably superior to controller use. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might be slightly better with a gamepad, although the difference is minimal.
Several upcoming PC game releases in the next month appear well-suited for controller play, 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 favors controller input, and Rebirth's combat system closely mirrors its predecessor.
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, typically indicating a controller-centric design. However, keyboard and mouse should still be functional.
A 2024 Soulslike game has also been included. See below for details.
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