Can You Play Valorant on PC with a Controller?
Valorant, the popular multiplayer first-person shooter game, can be played on PC with a controller, but there are some limitations. The game’s developer, Riot Games, initially did not support controller play at launch, citing the game’s competitive focus and the fact that most professional players use keyboards and mice. However, following community requests and feedback, Riot added controller support to the game in mid-2020.
Controller Support in Valorant
Now, Valorant players who prefer playing with a controller can enjoy the game, but there are some specific requirements and considerations to keep in mind.
- Controller Compatibility: To play Valorant with a controller, you need to use a controller that supports the following:
- HID (Human Interface Device) profile
- Native support for Xbox360 or DualShock 4 controllers (other controllers may work, but some features might be limited)
- Windows 10 or later
Controller Layout and Settings
To optimize your controller experience, Riot recommends using a controller with a layout that mirrors the game’s keyboard and mouse layout. You can adjust the controller’s buttons and sensitivity to suit your playstyle.
Some key controller settings to note:
- Invert Y axis: This option allows you to customize how your controller’s Y-axis (Vertical) moves. Some controllers may have default settings that don’t allow for precise movements.
- Dead Zones: You can adjust the controller’s dead zones to fine-tune movement and sensitivity.
- Button layouts: Experiment with different button mappings to find what works best for you. For example, you can remap the controller’s B button to the game’s aim-down-sight (ADS) command.
Limitations and Challenges
While controller play is possible in Valorant, it’s essential to recognize the limitations and challenges that come with using a controller for a game designed around keyboard and mouse control.
- Sensitivities: Controllers lack the precision of keyboard and mouse, so you may need to adjust your sensitivity to account for the slower movement and target acquisition.
- Movement: Controller movement can be less precise, leading to mistakes and misadventures, especially in tight spaces or during high-stakes situations.
- Aim-down-sight: Controllers may not be ideal for aim-down-sight (ADS) tasks, as they can be more tricky to control with a controller.
Should You Use a Controller in Valorant?
If you’re a veteran controller user or prefer gaming with a controller, you can still have a great experience in Valorant. However, if you’re new to competitive FPS games or want to improve your skills, you might find that a keyboard and mouse provides a more precise and nuanced experience.
Here’s a summary table to help you decide:
| Keyboard and Mouse | Controller | |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | + | – |
| Movement | + | – |
| Aim-down-sight | + | – |
| Accessibility | – | + |
| Cost | -$ | -$ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best controller for Valorant?
A: Riot recommends using native Xbox360 or DualShock 4 controllers, but other controllers may work depending on your preferences and settings.
Q: Can I remap my controller buttons?
A: Yes, you can adjust the controller’s button layout to suit your needs.
Q: Will using a controller affect my skill level?
A: Yes, controllers can introduce delays and imprecision, which might affect your gameplay experience.
Q: Is controller support limited to the English version of the game?
A: Yes, controller support is currently only available in the English version of Valorant, although Riot might add support for other languages in the future.
Q: Do I need a controller with a turbo feature for Valorant?
A: No, you don’t need a turbo feature on your controller for Valorant. Normal controller settings and sensitivity should suffice.
Q: Can I use a controller with multiple profiles for Valorant?
A: Yes, you can create custom profiles for different controllers or settings, if needed.
Q: Will using a controller affect my chances of getting reported for cheaters?
A: No, your controller choice won’t directly affect your chances of getting reported for cheaters, as the game’s anti-cheat system looks for specific gameplay patterns and controller usage is normal.
Q: Can I play valorant on PC with multiple controllers connected?
A: Currently, Valorant only supports using one controller per account. If you plan to play with friends, you’ll need separate accounts and controllers.
Q: Will the game’s competitive ladder be available for controller players?
A: Yes, controller players can participate in Valorant’s competitive ladder, but ranking and competitive play may be impacted due to the natural advantages of keyboard and mouse control.