PC Games That Play Better With A Controller

Generally, PC gaming is synonymous with keyboard and mouse control, and for good reason. Precision-demanding genres like first-person shooters and strategy games greatly benefit from this setup. Adapting to alternative controls in these genres can be challenging. Indeed, grand strategy and real-time strategy games spent years avoiding console ports due to perceived control limitations; however, PlayStation and Xbox ports are now commonplace, though these titles often excel on PC.

While most PC releases strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some games are better suited to controllers. Games emphasizing fast-paced movement or melee combat often pair perfectly with gamepads. Similar to keyboard and mouse, certain genres, particularly those originating on consoles before transitioning to PC, are naturally aligned with controller use. But which PC games truly shine with a gamepad?

Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2024 concluded strongly, with several high-profile releases like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force launching in quick succession. Most of these titles not only support keyboard and mouse but arguably play better with them. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might be slightly better with a gamepad, though the difference isn't substantial.

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

• Freedom Wars Remastered: A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, this title seems naturally suited to controller use.
• 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 original remake favored controller input on PC, and Rebirth's combat system appears similar.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Another PS5 exclusive making its PC debut, likely prioritizing controller input. Keyboard and mouse should still be functional, however.

A 2024 Soulslike game has also been added to this list. See the link below for details.

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Slightly Better with Controllers