Best PC Games Enhanced by Using a Controller

When discussing PC gaming, the image that typically comes to mind is that of a keyboard and mouse. This preference is largely due to the enhanced precision offered by this control scheme, especially in genres such as first-person shooters and strategy games. Historically, grand and real-time strategy titles were largely absent from consoles, as adapting their intricate controls for gamepads was seen as impractical. However, the landscape has changed, and many such titles now grace platforms like PlayStation and Xbox, albeit they remain most enjoyable on PC.

While numerous PC titles provide excellent support for keyboard and mouse setups, some PC games shine with controllers. Games that emphasize reflexive movement or intense melee combat often feel more intuitive with a gamepad. Similarly, certain genres naturally align with controllers, particularly those initially designed for consoles before making their way to PC. So, what are the best controller games on PC?

Updated December 10, 2024 by Mark Sammut: As 2024 draws to a close, several noteworthy titles have emerged. This month, gamers have seen the release of Delta Force, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Fantasian Neo Dimension, Deadside, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Each game offers a quality experience, with Infinity Nikki standing out for its cozy gameplay, making it an excellent choice for gamepad users, though it also accommodates keyboard and mouse controls. Many of the other titles released this month are versatile enough to work seamlessly with either input method.

1 Ys 10: Nordics

Slightly Better with Controllers

The action JRPG genre is typically associated with controllers, as many titles were developed for consoles first. While simultaneous releases are now more common, the Ys series, primarily launched on PC, offers a unique experience for keyboard and mouse players. Despite PC ports often arriving later in the series, entries like Ys 8, 9, and 10 are still enjoyable with keyboard and mouse input, though players may need to adapt to using number keys for certain skills. However, the combat system smoothly aligns with controller use, particularly due to the game’s fast pace.

Ys 10 features a complex combat system, requiring players to manage various skills and execute precise actions using both Adol and Karja. On higher difficulty settings, cautious timing is essential, as players can quickly lose health, thus making a controller the superior choice for gameplay.

2 Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Both Options Work, But Controller Enhances Gameplay

The earlier installments of Dragon Age were designed with keyboard and mouse controls in mind. While the original, Dragon Age: Origins, significantly benefits from this setup due to its tactical combat, the series has evolved over the years. Dragon Age’s transition into more action-oriented gameplay has led to titles like Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which prioritizes real-time combat. Although it can still be played comfortably with a keyboard and mouse, the controller provides a better fit for the fluid combat mechanics introduced in this latest release.

Players should take note that while the game is accessible with both control schemes, the controller allows for a more seamless experience, particularly due to its ease of use during fast-paced combat. Furthermore, The Veilguard enjoys a variety of accessibility settings, ensuring a wider range of players can enjoy the game comfortably.

3 Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero

Naturally Suited for Controllers

Dragon Ball games are plentiful, but Sparking! Zero stands out as a unique entry in the franchise, reminiscent of the beloved Budokai Tenkaichi series. This 2024 release successfully channels the nostalgic essence of earlier titles while introducing modern gameplay mechanics. Despite the vast majority of 3D arena fighters being designed with controllers in mind, PC players have embraced Sparking! Zero, although using a keyboard may present a learning curve for those accustomed to it.

Nevertheless, players are likely to find the experience smoother with a gamepad, especially when tackling challenging AI opponents or engaging in multiplayer battles where precision is key. Sparking! Zero also presents numerous mechanics that can complicate combat, emphasizing the need for a responsive control scheme.

4 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

An Exception to the Shooter Norm

First-person shooters typically favor keyboard and mouse controls; however, exceptions like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 exist. This game successfully integrates both melee and ranged combat, with stronger melee elements requiring less precision than traditional shooters. The controller’s design makes maneuvering through the action more intuitive, particularly for players engaged in fast-paced combat scenarios.

While the game initially faced issues with gamepad recognition on Steam, many players have found that using a controller simplifies gameplay, making it a more accessible experience overall. Moreover, the generous aim assist in ranged combat further enhances the controller’s effectiveness, encouraging players to utilize it for a smoother experience.

5 Lords of the Fallen

Optimized Soulslike Experience

For most Soulslike titles, controllers provide the best experience, as the gameplay often requires a high degree of precision during combat. Although recent titles have improved keyboard and mouse compatibility, Lords of the Fallen remains particularly well-suited for gamepad use. The controller’s default settings are intuitive, allowing players to focus on the combat mechanics without spending excessive time configuring controls.

The game offers the flexibility to rebind keys for keyboard users, but those who choose the controller will find a seamless experience right from the start. This perfect alignment with the game’s mechanics makes it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the challenging worlds typical of the Soulslike genre.

6 Forza Horizon 5

Enjoy a Relaxing Drive

Racing games, especially those with an arcade style, often lend themselves well to controller use. Forza Horizon 5 exemplifies this, offering a laid-back driving experience across stunning Mexican landscapes. The control scheme is optimized for gamepads, providing effortless handling of high-speed vehicles during the game’s many exhilarating moments.

As players traverse this vibrant world, the game encourages a more relaxed vibe, making a controller the preferred choice to enhance the chill driving experience. With its combination of delightful gameplay and beautiful scenery, Forza Horizon 5 truly shines when enjoyed using a controller.

7 Fate/Samurai Remnant

Designed for Gamepad Use

As a standout in the action genre, Fate/Samurai Remnant is clearly tailored for controller play. While it’s entirely feasible to utilize a keyboard and mouse, the intuitiveness of using a controller for combat maneuvers such as stance switching and executing special attacks significantly enhances the gameplay experience. Players can also reconfigure their key bindings, allowing for flexibility.

This entry marks an ambitious addition to the series, featuring an expansive open-world environment that engages players in a compelling narrative as they navigate the Holy Grail War as Miyamoto Iori. With a blend of action and storytelling, enjoying Fate/Samurai Remnant is strongly recommended with a gamepad.

8 Black Myth: Wukong

Developer’s Recommendation for Controllers

The developers of Black Myth: Wukong have explicitly suggested using a controller for optimal gameplay. Given the integration of elements from both Soulslike and character action genres—both of which favor gamepads—it’s understandable why they recommend this. While a keyboard and mouse setup remains a viable option, player preference for customization may lead them to initially explore this route.

Nevertheless, the fast-paced and often intense combat sequences feel particularly well-suited for controller use, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. The game maintains a challenging tone, with players transitioning through a series of boss battles that demand quick reflexes, achieved more easily with a gamepad.

9 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

Best Enjoyed with Local Co-op

For a retro beat ’em up game like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, utilizing a fight stick enhances the experience; however, most players will likely resort to using controllers or keyboards. The inherent difficulty of achieving the same feel with a keyboard makes the game naturally favor controller use. Local co-op gameplay truly comes alive when using controllers, offering an engaging experience for multiple players.

10 Velocity Ultra

Fluid Gameplay with a Gamepad

FuturLab’s Velocity Ultra combines shoot ’em up and puzzle elements, with its innovative teleportation mechanic enhancing gameplay fluidity. While the game does support keyboard and mouse input, the controls may not feel as intuitive, necessitating some tweaks to key bindings. Players will likely find the combat and navigation far smoother with a controller, allowing for a more engaging and less cumbersome experience.

Additionally, the sequel, Velocity 2X, builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessor, though it may be harder to access on PC.

11 Yakuza 0

Best Experienced with a Gamepad

Yakuza 0 clearly indicates its preference for controller use, with an early game disclaimer emphasizing the benefit of this control scheme. While players can navigate the world and partake in mini-games with a keyboard and mouse, the combat mechanics are more suited for controllers, allowing for improved fluidity and response times.

As an engaging open-world title with a captivating narrative, Yakuza 0 serves as a strong introduction to this beloved franchise, making it an experience best enjoyed with a gamepad.

12 Psychonauts 2

Optimal Controls for 3D Platforming

Psychonauts 2 serves as a prime example of why 3D platformers benefit from controllers. The analog stick allows for more precise movement, which enhances gameplay in both platforming and combat scenarios. The game also incorporates quick reflex mechanics, including a Psi-Powers wheel, making controller use the most effective option for managing these elements.

13 Castle Crashers

Classic Console Influence

Originally launching on Xbox 360 in 2008, Castle Crashers retains its controller-friendly appeal even years later. The title was brought to PC years later, but its roots as a console game shine through, enhancing its playability with a gamepad. While players can navigate using a keyboard and mouse, they’ll discover a smoother experience with a controller as they save princesses and engage in cooperative multiplayer.

Combining hack-and-slash elements with RPG mechanics, Castle Crashers excels in both solo and co-op play, making a gamepad the ideal choice for a delightful gameplay experience.

14 Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time

Nostalgia Meets Modern Gaming

For fans of the franchise, using a controller feels quintessential for playing Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time. Designed with modern gaming principles in mind, the game integrates intuitive control layouts that facilitate gameplay—particularly important when navigating challenging levels. While keyboard and mouse controls can be adapted, they may require adjustments and will likely not provide the same level of comfort as gamepad controls.

The robust design of this title escalates the difficulty, making a gamepad the most effective tool to tackle the demanding challenges set within. Nostalgia seamlessly blends with contemporary game design, affirming a controller as the preferred device.

15 Final Fantasy 7 Remake

Optimized for Console but Playable on PC

Final Fantasy 7 Remake was released on PC in December 2021, although its port received mixed reviews. While it operates adequately with a keyboard and mouse, achieving an optimal experience often requires remapping controls due to default settings that may feel convoluted. With some adjustments, players can navigate effectively, but the game was undeniably designed with console controls in mind, meaning a controller enhances that experience.

The action RPG mechanics align well with a gamepad’s layout, making combat more fluid and intuitive compared to keyboard control. Given the game’s history and design, it remains one of those titles where controller use feels most natural.

16 Sheepy: A Short Adventure

A Game Best Experienced with a Controller

Upon launching Sheepy: A Short Adventure, players receive a prompt indicating that the game was designed for controller use. While it is playable via keyboard and mouse, experiencing the game as intended enhances engagement and enjoyment. This charming free-to-play adventure takes approximately one hour to complete, delivering a compelling story and engaging gameplay within a beautifully crafted world.

Despite a few initial issues regarding gamepad compatibility, the developers have proactively addressed these concerns, ensuring that players can enjoy the game with the intended controls.

17 Kingdom Hearts (All Of Them)

A Legacy Rooted in Console Gaming

The Kingdom Hearts series has long been available on PC, gaining newfound exposure with the release of the HD 1.5+2.5 ReMIX compilation and Kingdom Hearts 3 in June 2024. While it’s feasible to learn the keyboard and mouse controls, these titles were primarily designed with console gameplay in mind, making controllers the better option for those seeking to engage fully with the series’ complex mechanics and combat systems.

Though the games aren’t particularly difficult, the sheer number of mechanics can become unwieldy when managed with a keyboard setup. Controller interfaces streamline these interactions, ensuring players can easily navigate through intricate combat scenarios.

18 Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

K+M Integration Needs Improvement

PC gamers faced challenges with the release of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, which suffered from performance issues and lackluster support for keyboard and mouse controls. Although the game remains playable, it currently lacks key rebinding options, limiting the ability for players to customize their experience. This omission contrasts with its predecessor, Fallen Order, which allowed for better customization.

Due to these limitations, players may find that using a controller enhances gameplay significantly and makes overcoming challenges easier, especially in a game designed around action and exploration.

19 Atlas Fallen

Controller Advantages in Deck13’s Titles

Deck13 is known for their action RPG games that utilize a Soulslike combat system. Their latest title, Atlas Fallen, leans toward the hack and slash genre while integrating familiar mechanics from their previous offerings. This combination of gameplay mechanics, such as dynamic combat and enemy variability, makes controllers a natural fit to enhance player immersion.

Despite the game being visually appealing, the storytelling could use improvement, leading to a somewhat repetitive experience as players engage with its combat elements. While Atlas Fallen presents a mixture of fresh ideas, the overall execution leaves room for growth. However, players looking for a hack and slash title should have a controller at hand to get the most out of the experience.

20 Hollow Knight

Enhancing the Experience with a Controller

Designed as a challenging yet rewarding title, Hollow Knight can be enjoyed without a controller, although doing so can prove to be a more arduous task. Given the game’s focus on precise platforming and intense combat, a gamepad not only simplifies these elements but also allows for greater control during tense encounters.

For players looking to tackle the numerous difficult bosses throughout its expansive and intricate world, opting for a controller can ease some of the game’s inherent challenges, making the experience more enjoyable overall.

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