Top PC Games Enhanced by Controller Use

PC gaming is often synonymous with the precision of a keyboard and mouse setup, particularly for genres like first-person shooters and strategy games. These control schemes offer unmatched accuracy, making them the preferred choice for many players. Historically, grand strategy and real-time strategy games largely bypassed consoles due to the challenges of adapting their intricate controls to gamepads. However, recent years have seen these genres successfully make the leap to PlayStation and Xbox, though they still tend to shine brightest on PC.

Despite the dominance of keyboard and mouse, certain PC games are notably enhanced by the use of controllers. Games that emphasize fast-paced movement or intense melee combat often feel more natural with a gamepad in hand. Just as some genres are closely tied to the keyboard and mouse, others have become synonymous with controllers, especially when their flagship titles originated on consoles before transitioning to PC. So, what are the best controller games on PC?

Updated January 7, 2025 by Mark Sammut: The end of 2024 brought exciting releases such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Infinity Nikki, Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2, and Delta Force, all launching within days of each other. These games generally perform well with a keyboard and mouse, often surpassing the experience with a controller. However, Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered might be slightly more enjoyable with a gamepad, though the difference is minimal.

In the coming month, several anticipated PC games are set to release, which might benefit from using a controller. Here's a look at some of these titles:

Freedom Wars Remastered – A revival of a PS Vita game that echoes the Monster Hunter formula, this title seems ideally suited for controller play.
Tales of Graces f Remastered – Known for their compatibility with gamepads, there's every indication that this remaster will continue the trend.
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – Following the success of its predecessor, which played better with a controller on PC, Rebirth's combat system is expected to favor the same setup.
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 – As another PS5 exclusive making its way to PC, it's likely to offer a controller-first experience, though keyboard and mouse users shouldn't feel left out.

Additionally, a 2024 Soulslike game has been added to this list. Click below to jump directly to this title: