Unleash the Power: Uncover the PC Games Optimized for Controllers

Generally, PC gaming is synonymous with keyboard and mouse controls, and for good reason. Genres like first-person shooters and strategy games benefit significantly from the precision these controls offer. Adapting to other input methods can be challenging for these established genres. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, long exclusive to PC due to control limitations on consoles, now see frequent PlayStation and Xbox ports, though they often remain superior on PC.

While many PC games offer keyboard and mouse support, some are better suited to controllers. Games emphasizing fast-paced movement or intense melee combat often pair perfectly with gamepads. Just as with keyboard and mouse, certain genres are inherently 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 saw several notable releases, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force. These titles generally excel with keyboard and mouse, often surpassing the controller experience. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might be slightly better with a gamepad, although the difference isn't substantial.

Several upcoming PC game releases show potential for enhanced controller play, though this remains to be confirmed:

• Freedom Wars Remastered: A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, ideally suited for 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 controllers on PC, and Rebirth's combat system mirrors its predecessor.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Another PS5 exclusive transitioning to PC, usually implying a primary focus on controller input. Keyboard and mouse should still be viable, however.

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

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Slightly Better With Gamepads