A sure common look crosses the faces of many PC players after they discover out that sure, I play with a controller. A number of acquainted phases typically comply with.
First, denial. (“No means, why would you?”) Then a various quantity of anger. (“A controller isn’t pretty much as good as a mouse and keyboard!”) Then bargaining. (“It’s best to strive mouse and keyboard for shooters.”) Then despair. (“I can’t imagine you favor a controller.”)
Generally…we attain acceptance. Generally not ever. (See: My ongoing debate about this with my colleague Gordon Mah Ung on PCWorld’s Full Nerd podcast.) And I hate to be harsh with my coworkers, a lot much less the numerous folks I’ve met over the course of my life who’ve adopted this script, however…
Some video games simply play higher on controller. And that’s okay.
For folk deeply dedicated to a mouse and keyboard, it’s a tricky idea to swallow. And normally, they imply effectively! They’re wanting to introduce me to the concept I may have a lot sooner, correct intention and responsiveness from my enter of alternative. I see that and respect the try at assist.
(Gordon, alternatively…)
However there are sport genres which can be genuinely well-suited to controllers. Platformers. Arcade video games. Preventing video games. Racing video games. Let’s additionally not overlook console ports initially designed with a controller in thoughts, and different genres that may swing both means (e.g., motion or journey video games). A set of analog thumbsticks typically has the sting right here, and the button structure feels nice, too. Plus, you’ve gotten completely different controllers to select from, so that you’re not caught with just one sort. (When you’ve obtained sufficient money, there are high-end fashions just like the Xbox Elite controller that you may customise the heck out of.)
TheXomil / Pixabay
Even for genres the place a aggressive benefit exists with mouse and keyboard, a controller nonetheless works completely wonderful. That’s proper: You possibly can nonetheless play shooters with a controller. Yep, I do know mouse and keyboard have a bonus for intention and management. However you possibly can nonetheless have regular arms and an correct set off finger on controller, even with out intention help. (How do I do know? I’ve labored with such proficient folks.) It’s greater than wonderful for single-player or for those who’re not chasing peak efficiency in competitors—which is lots of people.
Would I like to recommend everybody play with a controller for all issues? No, and particularly not for those who like technique video games. However that’s the fantastic thing about the PC. You are able to do what you need. Combine it up if you need—or don’t. I’ve performed co-op platformers with pals who used a mouse and keyboard. However enjoying on controller shouldn’t be a mark of disgrace or censure.
It’s simply another choice. And typically, it’s the superior one.
