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. Indeed, grand strategy and real-time strategy games spent years bypassing consoles due to the perceived difficulty of gamepad adaptation; however, these genres are now common on PlayStation and Xbox, though they often excel on PC.
While most PC releases strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some titles are better suited to controllers. Games emphasizing reflex-based movement or fast-paced melee combat are often ideal for gamepad use. Similarly to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are strongly associated with 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 with several notable releases, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force, all launching within days of each other. Most of these games are excellent with keyboard and mouse, arguably superior to controller use. That being said, 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 (within the next month) appear potentially better suited to controller play, though this remains to be confirmed:
- Freedom Wars Remastered – A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, ideally played with a controller.
- Tales of Graces f Remastered – Tales games consistently perform better with gamepads, and this remaster is expected to follow suit.
- Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – The remake's predecessor played better with a controller on PC, and Rebirth's combat system is very similar.
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, typically indicating a controller-focused experience. However, keyboard and mouse will likely suffice.
A 2024 Soulslike game has also been added to this article. See the link below for details.
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