A significant decline in controller snobbery has been observed among PC gamers, as the number of Steam users who opt for controllers triples every six years. The suggestion doesn’t necessarily mean abandoning the traditional keyboard-mouse combination, but rather implies that PC gamers may have an edge in certain titles that benefit from dual analog controls.
According to Valve’s data, the Xbox controller boasts a significant lead among Steam users who utilize controllers, claiming an impressive 59% market share. While we concur with their choice, our own assessment also aligns, deeming the current Xbox Wireless Controller our top recommendation for the best PC controller available today.
According to Valve, in 2018, only around 5% of Steam gameplay sessions used a controller, a figure that has since more than tripled to approximately 15% by 2024. While PlayStation controllers make up nearly a quarter (26%) of gaming sessions employing controllers on Steam, the Steam Deck accounts for around one-tenth (10%) of total controller usage on the platform.
We wouldn’t say we’re stunned by that later revelation. The Steam Deck’s popularity is undeniable. You wouldn’t typically pair a keyboard and mouse with it, would you, given its intended use as a portable gaming companion for lounging on the couch?
Valve credits several factors for the surge in gamepad adoption on PCs, including the ease of integration with its Steam platform, which simplifies the process of connecting a controller to one’s computer and automatically granting access to numerous Steam games. Steam Input supports over 300 controllers, including the Nintendo Switch Pro and Sony PlayStation controllers.
Valve highlights a revamped Massive Image replacement feature as one of its notable improvements. Similar to the Steam Deck’s innovative approach, the Massive Image implementation seamlessly hands control of the Steam interface over to your controller, delivering an exceptional experience when paired with a gaming PC setup on your living room TV. The Steam store’s controller configurator offers considerable flexibility regarding button mapping, granting users a significant degree of customization control.
Notably, our observations indicate a surge in controller adoption across various video game genres, often unexpected. For instance, the popular battle royale title Apex Legends has witnessed a substantial increase in controller usage, even among professional gamers who prefer the precision and aim assistance offered by controllers. While certainly there may exist a developing stage of backlash concerning the efficacy of intentional assistance with regard to this specific topic,
While PC players may find success with keyboard and mouse combos in many technical games and first-person shooters, it’s undeniable that certain titles shine brighter with the aid of a controller. As a console gamer at heart, I initially clung to keyboard-and-mouse for PC gaming; however, a recent shift has seen me gravitating towards my Nintendo Switch Pro controller for titles like Elden Ring, Tunic, and Lego games, finding the experience significantly more effortless.
Looking for a new PC controller? Check out our review of the Massive Marge Gaming Rainbow Pro 2, which offers hall-effect triggers, a rechargeable battery, and a competitive price tag of just $79.99.
