Top PC Games Enhanced by Using a Controller

PC gaming is often synonymous with using a keyboard and mouse, and for good reason. Genres such as first-person shooters and strategy games greatly benefit from the precision that this setup provides. For many gamers, adapting to anything other than a keyboard and mouse for these types of games can be challenging. Historically, grand strategy and real-time strategy games largely avoided consoles due to the complexities of adapting their controls to gamepads. Today, however, these genres have found their way onto PlayStation and Xbox, though they tend to shine brightest on PC.

While most PC games offer robust support for keyboard and mouse configurations, some titles are actually enhanced by using a controller. Games that rely heavily on reflex-based movement or high-octane melee action are often better suited to gamepads. Certain genres are closely associated with controllers, particularly when their flagship franchises originated on consoles and later transitioned to PC. So, what are the best PC games to play with a controller?

Updated on January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: The end of 2024 brought a flurry of exciting releases, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force. These games generally play well with a keyboard and mouse, and might even be considered superior to using a controller. However, the remastered Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 might slightly favor a gamepad, though the difference isn't substantial.

Looking ahead, several upcoming PC games in the next month appear to be ideal candidates for controller play, though their final performance remains to be seen:

• Freedom Wars Remastered – Reviving a PS Vita game that echoes the Monster Hunter formula, this title is a natural fit for a controller.
• Tales of Graces f Remastered – Tales games have consistently been more enjoyable with gamepads, and there's no indication that this remaster will deviate from that trend.
• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – The remake of Final Fantasy 7 was more enjoyable with a controller on PC, and given the similarity in combat systems, Rebirth is likely to follow suit.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – As a former PS5 exclusive now making its way to PC, this game traditionally offers a controller-first experience, though keyboard and mouse controls are expected to be satisfactory.

Additionally, a 2024 Soulslike game has been included in this article. You can jump directly to it by clicking on the link below.

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