Generally, PC gaming is synonymous with keyboard and mouse control, and for good reason. Genres like first-person shooters and strategy games greatly benefit from the precision these controls offer. Adapting to alternative control schemes in these genres can be challenging. Grand strategy and real-time strategy games, historically console-absent due to perceived gamepad control limitations, now frequently appear on PlayStation and Xbox, though they often excel on PC.

While most PC games strive for robust keyboard and mouse support, some shine brighter with controllers. Games emphasizing reflex-based movement or fast-paced melee combat are often ideal for gamepad use. Similar to keyboard and mouse, certain genres are intrinsically linked to controllers, particularly those originating on consoles before transitioning to PC. What are the top controller-friendly PC games?

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 games are excellent with keyboard and mouse, arguably surpassing controller experiences. However, 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 (in the next month) show potential for enhanced controller play, though this remains to be confirmed:

• Freedom Wars Remastered: A PS Vita revival echoing the Monster Hunter formula, suggesting natural controller compatibility.
• 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 controller use on PC, and Rebirth's combat system is largely similar.
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Another PS5-to-PC port, typically optimized for controller play first, although keyboard and mouse should still function well.

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Slightly Better With Gamepads