Many PC gamers prefer using a controller instead of a keyboard and mouse. Racing games, sports titles, platformers, action adventures, and fighting games often feel more comfortable with analog sticks and triggers. Fortunately, many modern PC titles offer excellent controller compatibility right out of the box.
This guide highlights the best PC games with controller support across different genres. Every game listed works well with popular controllers, including Xbox Wireless Controllers, PlayStation DualSense, DualShock 4, and many third-party gamepads through Steam Input or native support.\
Also read: Best Multiplayer Shooting Games
Why Play PC Games with a Controller?
A controller can improve comfort and gameplay in many genres.
Some key benefits include:
- Better movement with analog sticks
- Comfortable long gaming sessions
- Smooth driving and racing controls
- Precise platforming mechanics
- Better support for local multiplayer
- Easy plug-and-play setup on Windows
While competitive shooters usually benefit from keyboard and mouse, many other genres are designed with controllers in mind.
Best 13 PC Games with Controller Support
1. Elden Ring
Genre: Action RPG
Elden Ring delivers one of the best controller experiences on PC. Combat, exploration, horseback riding, and boss fights all feel natural using a gamepad.
Why it stands out
- Native controller support
- Excellent combat controls
- Massive open world
- Supports Xbox and PlayStation controllers
2. Forza Horizon 5
Genre: Racing
Forza Horizon 5 is one of the best racing games available for Windows. Trigger vibration, analog steering, and smooth acceleration make controllers the preferred option.
Best features
- Beautiful open-world driving
- Excellent controller feedback
- Hundreds of cars
- Online multiplayer
3. EA Sports FC 26
Genre: Sports
Football games are designed primarily around controller gameplay. Passing, dribbling, shooting, and defending feel intuitive with a controller.
Ideal for:
- Local multiplayer
- Online matches
- Career Mode
- Ultimate Team
4. Hades
Genre: Roguelike Action
Hades combines fast combat with responsive movement. Controller support feels smooth throughout every run.
Highlights include:
- Fast-paced gameplay
- Excellent dodge mechanics
- Beautiful art style
- High replay value
5. Hollow Knight
Genre: Metroidvania
Precise platforming and combat make Hollow Knight a favorite among controller users.
Why players love it:
- Tight controls
- Challenging boss fights
- Beautiful world design
- Outstanding soundtrack
6. Cuphead
Genre: Run-and-Gun
Cuphead requires quick reactions and precise movement. A controller provides better comfort during difficult boss battles.
Key features:
- Hand-drawn animation
- Local co-op
- Challenging gameplay
- Smooth controller support
7. It Takes Two
Genre: Co-op Adventure
This award-winning co-op game is best experienced with two controllers.
Reasons to play:
- Creative gameplay
- Split-screen support
- Fun puzzles
- Great teamwork mechanics
8. Rocket League
Genre: Sports / Racing
Rocket League has become one of the most popular competitive games for controller players.
Advantages include:
- Better car control
- Easy aerial movement
- Cross-platform multiplayer
- Free-to-play
9. Street Fighter 6
Genre: Fighting
Fighting games have traditionally been designed for controllers. Street Fighter 6 delivers responsive gameplay on PC with multiple controller options.
Best for:
- Competitive matches
- Local versus
- Online ranked play
10. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Genre: Platform Adventure
Ori offers smooth movement, emotional storytelling, and responsive controls that feel excellent on a controller.
Highlights:
- Beautiful visuals
- Fluid movement
- Memorable soundtrack
- Excellent platforming
11. Red Dead Redemption 2
Genre: Open World
Rockstar’s western adventure supports controllers natively and delivers immersive gameplay.
Players enjoy:
- Horse riding
- Story-driven missions
- Open-world exploration
- Realistic combat
12. Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
Genre: Action Adventure
Swinging through New York feels incredibly natural using analog sticks and adaptive triggers on supported controllers.
Top features:
- Smooth traversal
- Exciting combat
- Stunning graphics
- Excellent controller optimization
13. Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
Genre: Platformer
Platform games are often easier to enjoy with a controller, and Crash Bandicoot 4 is no exception.
Players appreciate:
- Responsive jumping
- Fun level design
- Challenging gameplay
- Family-friendly experience
Which Controllers Work Best on Windows?
Most modern games support several controller types.
Popular options include:
| Controller | Works on Windows | Native Support |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox Wireless Controller | ✅ | Excellent |
| Xbox Elite Series 2 | ✅ | Excellent |
| PlayStation DualSense | ✅ | Very Good |
| DualShock 4 | ✅ | Very Good |
| 8BitDo Ultimate Controller | ✅ | Excellent |
| Logitech F310 | ✅ | Good |
Steam Input Makes More Games Compatible
Steam Input allows players to use different controllers even in games without native controller support.
Benefits include:
- Button remapping
- Custom layouts
- Gyro support
- Community controller profiles
- Better compatibility
Also read: 10 Best Horror Games
Tips for the Best Controller Gaming Experience
To improve gameplay:
- Keep controller firmware updated.
- Enable Steam Input when needed.
- Adjust stick sensitivity.
- Use wired mode for lower latency during competitive games.
- Recharge wireless controllers before long sessions.
- Customize button layouts for comfort.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right controller-supported game depends on personal preference, but many of today’s best Windows titles are designed to deliver an excellent gamepad experience. Whether someone enjoys racing across Mexico in Forza Horizon 5, battling powerful enemies in Elden Ring, competing online in Rocket League, or exploring beautiful worlds like Ori and the Will of the Wisps, a quality controller can make gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.
FAQ
Do all PC games support controllers?
No. Many modern games include native controller support, but some strategy games and competitive shooters work better with keyboard and mouse.
Which controller is best for PC gaming?
The Xbox Wireless Controller remains one of the best choices because Windows offers excellent native compatibility. The PlayStation DualSense is also a strong option for supported games.
Can Steam make unsupported games work with a controller?
Yes. Steam Input can add controller functionality to many games that do not offer native support.
Is a controller better than a keyboard for PC gaming?
It depends on the genre. Racing, sports, fighting, platformer, and action games often play better with a controller, while FPS, RTS, and MOBA games generally perform better with keyboard and mouse.
