While a mouse and keyboard are the preferred input devices for PC gaming, there is growing support for controllers. This is especially true for popular platformers and roguelikes like Dead Cells.
So, what are the benefits of using a PC controller for gaming? Here are just a few of the main advantages:
Improved Precision and Control
Depending on the game, a controller with responsive and well-built buttons can make a huge difference. Mushy or wobbly triggers that don’t register your input can lead to frustration, missed opportunities, and rage quits. Fortunately, choosing the best PC controller have durable construction and feels good in your hands.
For gamers who play first-person shooters or any game where aiming is an integral part of the gameplay, a mouse and keyboard setup will offer superior precision over a console gamepad. In addition, many newer PC controllers have switches on the back that allow you to choose how far you need to press the trigger buttons before they register an input. This feature allows for better precision when playing games like Call of Duty that require precise reaction-based shooting.
Many games also work well on a controller – especially 2D games like Dead Cells or Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and roguelikes like the recently released Alien: Isolation. These games tend to be easier on a gamepad than on a mouse and keyboard, and you can often configure a controller for the control scheme that works best for you.
More Comfortable
It might seem sacrilege to gamers who love their mouse and keyboard, but there’s nothing wrong with using a controller to play PC games. It can be much more comfortable, especially when playing for long periods. This is because using a controller doesn’t require constantly leaning over your desk, which can cause discomfort in the wrists and hands.
Additionally, many controllers are available in wireless versions that can be used without being tethered to your computer. This makes them more portable and convenient to take on the go, which is an advantage if you enjoy gaming on a laptop or tablet.
Whether you want to connect your console controller to your PC via Bluetooth or a USB cable, it’s pretty easy to do. Most modern console controllers, including the Xbox Pro Controller and PlayStation DualSense/DualShock, work with PCs, as do many third-party options. You can also use a third-party software program like DS4Windows to emulate the functionality of Xbox controllers on a PC. However, this will give you a limited amount of haptic feedback from the official ones.
Alternatively, you can buy a wired gaming controller that doesn’t need to be connected over a wireless signal or Bluetooth and only requires a battery. This is an ideal solution to avoid the hassle of maintaining a Bluetooth connection or worrying about running out of power during a game session.
More Convenient
Using a controller for players that play console games on their PC can make it much more convenient than using a mouse and keyboard. Traditionally, console controllers have been the standard input device for gaming, and many gamers still prefer them to a mouse and keyboard for various reasons.
In addition to the improved precision and control, a controller can also help reduce the strain on your hands and wrists during long gaming sessions. This can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from chronic hand and wrist pain.
Unlike a keyboard and mouse, most gaming controllers don’t require setting up a complicated wired connection or downloading an application. If the game supports the device, you plug the controller into your PC, which will work.
Most controllers offer customizable buttons, triggers, and joysticks; some have additional features like touch, directional, lighting, and rumble effects. They are also typically less expensive than a gaming mouse and keyboard and have longer battery life. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to save money on a gaming setup or those new to the hobby and wanting to experience the convenience of using a controller. However, the limited customization and the requirement for a battery or wireless signal can be disadvantages for those who want to optimize their gaming experience.
More Immersive
The best PC controllers have much to offer in terms of functionality to help you get more immersed in your gaming. They may sport features like directional pads, touchpads, lighting, and additional buttons for added control. Some even have ergonomic features to prevent you from straining your wrists or hands. This is an excellent option for gamers with mobility or dexterity issues that make using a keyboard and mouse difficult.
It’s worth pointing out that keyboards also offer a wide selection of keys that can be mapped to game functions. This can be helpful for games that require a lot of keyboard inputs, such as menu-heavy titles games.
While there are benefits to both the mouse and keyboard and console controllers, it’s essential to consider which type of input device will be most effective for your specific needs. Many options are available to suit different gaming preferences, so take some time to research them all and decide which is best for you.