13 PC Games Best Played With A Controller (2024)

The debate between keyboard and mouse versus controller has been around forever. Dedicated PC gamers won't budge from their beloved WASD keys, while controller users cherish the analog stick and buttons. It's not about one being better than the other; both have their pros and cons.

Most PC games come with built-in controller support, but it's clear they're designed with a keyboard and mouse in mind. On the flip side, some games take a different approach, promoting the use of controllers for a more seamless gaming experience. Certain game developers are considerate of controller users in the PC gaming realm.

Updated on May 5, 2024, by Mohamed El Ouardighi: The mouse and keyboard versus controller debate is one that may never reach a conclusion, but surprisingly, certain games are better suited for one or the other. Here's an updated list of PC games that are best enjoyed with a controller!

13 Stray

Stray is upfront about controllers — you will have a better gaming experience using one. There are several chase sequences where timing and accuracy are crucial; one wrong move with a mouse could result in you becoming zurk food.

It's possible to play with the keyboard and mouse, but in this case it might be best to listen to B12 (the developers, not the drone) and go with a controller for smoother gameplay. Your nerves and hands will thank you for it.

12 Dark Souls Series

If you've played any Dark Souls game on a console, you're familiar with their challenging nature, even with a controller. Now, picture playing them on a PC – you have to map the keys, remember them, and if you're not accustomed to it, it's not ideal. Games like these are typically better suited for a controller due to quicker reflexes and responses. Using a keyboard, you might miss a key and it will lead to your demise.

While it's possible to play these games with a mouse and keyboard, it can be quite tough. Although achievable, you'll likely have a better experience using a controller.

11 Persona Series

The Persona games were ported to the PC in 2023. Although Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden were made for the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation Vita, while Persona 5 Royal originally came out on PlayStation 4 and 5.

The series had been console-only up to this point, so it makes sense that a controller would be more convenient. The turn-based attack sequences don't require the kind of finesse a controller offers, but there are puzzles and sneak sequences that will make you grateful for having a joystick instead of a mouse.

10 Cuphead

Cuphead is a 2D platformer with a cute, old-style aesthetic. Don't be fooled by that, however. It's a deceptively difficult shooter, with different buttons for the four main moves — parrying, dashing, locking in place, and using Super Art.

You might find yourself spending the first few minutes of the game repeatedly adjusting keybinds, trying to find a combination that works for you. A controller just feels more natural for that style of gameplay (although you'll probably still want to configure the controls to your liking).

9 Horizon Zero Dawn

Console ports play better with controllers. It's a natural fact. And it's especially true for Horizon Zero Dawn, which had a rough start on the PC. Even with all the patches to address technical issues, the game could never move away from its controller origins.

Like all games, it's playable with a keyboard and mouse, but you'll find yourself struggling with the game mechanics that were clearly meant for joysticks. It's a core part of gameplay, and you'll probably like it better.

8 Life Is Strange

While there isn't much action in the narrative driven game, there are some finnicky mechanics in Life Is Strange that are easier with a controller — specifically, Max's ability to travel through time via photographs.

Using the keyboard and mouse to focus on the photo isn't nearly as easy or precise, and you'll find yourself constantly frustrated at your inability to complete this small task. It's far easier using the joysticks on a controller, and once you get used to it, you might even be able to predict exactly what position you need the joysticks to be in.

7 Dragon's Dogma 2

You can tell a game is best played with a controller when it explicitly recommends it, like in the case of Dragon's Dogma 2. Certain actions, such as executing skills while on the move, require multiple simultaneous key presses, which is not very convenient for your fingers.

While it's still possible to manage with a mouse and keyboard, using a controller offers a smoother experience, especially during intense boss fights against creatures like Griffins or Behemoths. You'll need to maneuver swiftly, time your attacks accurately, and climb onto enemies to strike their weak spots. The controller just feels like it was made for this kind of gameplay.

6 A Hat In Time

A Hat In Time is a 3D platformer which takes inspiration from games like Super Mario 64, and that shows in its gameplay and mechanics. You'll pull off tight maneuvers and object manipulations that are hard to do with a keyboard and mouse; it's very similar to the games that it's emulating.

It recognizes keyboard and mouse controls, but it'll definitely make for a tougher time. If you're familiar with Nintendo 64 games and their mechanics, you'll probably be able to pick it up much faster with a controller.

5 Streets Of Rage 4

This game is a faithful tribute to the original Streets of Rage trilogy from the Sega Genesis console, right down to the graphics and controls. Streets of Rage 4 is simply better with a controller.

There's something about button mashing on a controller that is more satisfying than it is on the keyboard (along with less risk of breaking something). You'll be happier and have a more enjoyable experience if you play it with a controller, just like the original series.

4 Sonic Frontiers

Fans of the Sonic series will know that these games move fast, and Sonic Frontiers is no exception. 3D platformers are overall better with controllers, and Frontiers doesn't make much of an effort to incorporate keyboard and mouse controls.

You'll have a better time and enjoy yourself much more if you use a controller, and for long-time fans, it'll feel nostalgic. Who doesn't love the rush of hitting a jump or boost at the last second and watching Sonic go?

3 Lies Of P

A soulslike game is designed to be played with a controller, and even then, it can be challenging. Lies of P was a pleasant surprise in 2023, capturing the essence of the soulslike genre with a touch of Bloodborne, weaving a dark and grim narrative where you take on the role of Pinocchio.

While we can assure you that playing this game with a controller will provide a better experience, we won't promise it'll be easy. However, it's definitely easier than using a mouse and keyboard.

2 Hades

Hades is a bit unique. There are instances in this dungeon crawler where it's better to use a controller, and times when it's better to use a keyboard and mouse. Ranged weapons especially benefit from keyboard and mouse, as it allows for more control over aiming.

Overall, however, you'll have a better time with the game if you use a controller. The combat feels more natural with a controller, and makes it easier to pull off fast maneuvers later on in the game when you have to dodge a lot and stay alive.

1 Elden Ring

Elden Ring is a third-person RPG that will test your skills, reflexes, and patience. You'll want easy access to your weapons and shields when you're fighting for your life, and not having to depend on your pinky to reach the right key will make the process slightly less difficult.

In general, having all the buttons you need in a small space that you can reach with a thumb will help a lot when it comes to most aspects of gameplay. But the fights, where you could always be one missed jump away from dying, really drive the point home.