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 can be challenging in these genres. Real-time strategy games, for example, spent years bypassing consoles due to the perceived difficulty of gamepad adaptation. While now common on PlayStation and Xbox, these games often excel on PC.

Although most PC games strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some titles 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 before making their way to PC. So, which PC games shine brightest with a controller?

Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2024 concluded strongly with 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 playable with keyboard and mouse, but arguably superior 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 games could benefit from controller use, although 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 – 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 is better played with a controller, and Rebirth's combat is very similar.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, typically implying controller priority. However, keyboard and mouse should still function well.

A 2024 Soulslike game has also been added. Click below to jump to this entry.

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Slightly Better With Controllers