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 these input devices offer. Adapting to alternative controls in these genres can be challenging. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, once exclusive to PC due to control limitations on consoles, now see regular PlayStation and Xbox ports. However, these titles often perform best on PC.

While most PC games strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some are undeniably better with controllers. Games emphasizing fast-paced movement or intense melee combat are often ideal for gamepad use. Similar to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are intrinsically linked to controllers, especially franchises originating on consoles before transitioning to PC. So, which PC games shine brightest with a controller?

Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: Late 2024 saw several high-profile releases, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force. Most of these titles are not only compatible with keyboard and mouse but arguably excel with them. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might offer a slightly better experience with a gamepad, though the difference is minimal.

Several upcoming PC game releases (as of January 7, 2025) show promise for controller-based gameplay, although their actual performance remains to be seen:

• 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 performs better with gamepads, and this remaster is expected to follow suit.
• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth: The previous remake favored controller input on PC, and Rebirth's combat system appears similar.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Another PS5 exclusive making its way to PC, usually indicating a controller-centric design. However, keyboard and mouse might still prove adequate.

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

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Slightly Better with Controllers