Controllers offer various input options that are often more precise than a mouse and keyboard. They are also generally more comfortable to hold and use, making them an ideal choice for long gaming sessions.
Today’s controllers have impressive high-end features, including extra paddles for more efficient input, advanced haptic feedback, and modular designs. Some even feature wireless connectivity, enabling players to ditch the cables altogether.
Comfort
For many gamers, the comfort of a controller is a priority. A controller is designed to fit the hand naturally and may have features like rumble and haptic feedback, which can add to the gaming experience. The controller design can reduce wrist, hand, and arm strain for longer gaming sessions.
Some games are better played using a controller than a keyboard and mouse. This is often due to the game being a console port or the fact that they were designed for controller use.
A keyboard and mouse are an excellent choice for first-person shooters and real-time strategy games, where accuracy is essential. A mouse can give a competitive advantage over a controller in these games by making it easier to click and drag on the screen, which is especially useful for menu-heavy games.
Keyboards also offer a more extensive selection of input options than a controller, which can be helpful in games that require more complex user interfaces. Some PC games allow players to choose between a controller or keyboard and mouse mid-game, allowing them to use the control scheme that best suits them at any time.
Ergonomics
Whether casual gamers or esports athletes, players need the correct ergonomics to maximize performance and comfort. Proper ergonomics helps reduce wrist strain, eye fatigue, and back/neck pain, which can all inhibit gaming performance.
Essentially, ergonomics is “the study of people and their environments.” It incorporates psychology, cognitive neuroscience, physiology, biomechanics, human factors engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, and systems engineering.
Most people tend to think of physical ergonomics when they hear the term. They often picture ergonomic computer chairs designed to eliminate back pain or standing desks, allowing users to switch between sitting and standing postures. However, cognitive and organizational ergonomics also play a vital role in a gamer’s success.
Control
The best PC controller build quality can make or break your gaming experience. A mushy or wobbly controller will respond poorly to your inputs and can be frustrating. On the other hand, if well-designed and built to fit your hands, it can provide a comfortable and intuitive experience.
Video game controllers have been evolving rapidly over the years.
However, a mouse and keyboard setup is still the preferred option for many gamers. This is particularly true for genres originating on PC, such as MMORPGs and RTS games. While some developers have adapted their user interfaces to accommodate gamepads, the large selection of keys on a keyboard offers a more flexible and customizable control system. It’s also easier to execute reaction-based actions like aiming in a first-person shooter using a mouse.
Customization
The term “customize” has been tossed around lately, a new gaming trend encompassing everything from aesthetic choices to gameplay tweaks. From selecting the color of your controller’s face buttons to adjusting the dead zones of your analog sticks, gamers have options that can impact how they play and feel.
Many modern controllers include modular components that can be replaced or swapped. Some feature extra paddles underneath the main ones, allowing for more efficient input, while others offer a directional pad, touchpad, and even lighting that can be customized.
Regardless of their features, all controllers are relatively lightweight compared to PC hardware like keyboards and mice. This can help reduce the strain on your hands and back, which is especially important in games where your performance could be at stake. Also, some of these controllers use a combination of Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections to ensure optimal connectivity. This can allow for a more stable connection, better latency, and a longer battery life.
Immersion
The quality of a controller is a critical element of the gaming experience. A mushy or wobbly button can lead to mistakes that can differentiate between winning and losing. A high-quality controller will be comfortable to hold and provide a great feel while playing.
Immersive technology is a term that describes the experience of being present in a non-physical world. It is created by surrounding the user with images, sound, or other stimuli that can provide an engaging total environment. It is a growing industry with many applications, including but not limited to retail and e-commerce, adult entertainment, art, video games, interactive storytelling, military, education, and medicine.
The most common immersive technologies are virtual reality and augmented reality. These are used with a headset and hand controls to create an entirely new world that can be explored and manipulated. These technologies have boosted the video game industry. However, they are also being used in museums and education to help with learning and engagement.
