Can Path of Exile 2 Be Played with a Controller?

Path of Exile 2 revolutionizes gameplay with native controller support, a significant departure from its predecessor's mouse-and-keyboard focus. This guide explores the controller experience, comparing it to traditional input methods and helping you decide if it's right for you.

Controller Support: A Game Changer

Path of Exile 2 boasts fully functional controller support from day one. Unlike the original, which felt awkward with controllers, PoE 2's design prioritizes controller users, resulting in a smoother, more intuitive experience, even on handheld devices like the Steam Deck. Creative Director Jonathan Rogers highlights the substantial improvements over the first game.

Controller Gameplay: Twin-Stick Action

Playing with a controller transforms PoE 2 into a fluid twin-stick shooter. Movement and aiming are refined, enhancing fast-paced combat.

• Left Stick: Character movement.
• Right Stick: Aims ranged attacks and abilities.
• Face Buttons (A, B, X, Y / Cross, Circle, Square, Triangle): Quick abilities and interactions.
• Triggers and Bumpers (L1, L2, R1, R2): Skill slots.
• D-Pad: Potions and quick item slots.

The integration of WASD-style keyboard movement in PoE 2 further enhances the controller experience, addressing a key limitation of the original.

Controller vs. Mouse & Keyboard: A Balanced Comparison

Choosing between controller and mouse & keyboard depends on personal preference.

Controller Advantages:

• Fluid Movement: The left stick provides seamless movement compared to clicking.
• Enhanced Combat: Twin-stick aiming improves ranged combat precision.
• Relaxed Gameplay: Offers a more comfortable, console-like experience.
• Ideal for Steam Deck & Couch Gaming: Increases accessibility for various play styles.

Controller Disadvantages:

• Slower Menu Navigation: Inventory, skills, and the passive skill tree are more efficiently managed with a mouse.
• Less Precise Spell Targeting: While ranged combat benefits, some spells might feel better with a mouse's precision.
• Clunky Item Management: Inventory systems in complex ARPGs can be less intuitive with controllers.

Flexibility: Seamless Switching

PoE 2 allows effortless switching between controller and mouse & keyboard. Use a controller for combat and switch to a mouse for inventory or skill tree management – the choice is yours.

Platform Compatibility: Universal Support

Controller support is available across all platforms: PC, Steam Deck, PlayStation, and Xbox. This ensures seamless cross-platform play regardless of input method.

Is Controller Gameplay Worth It?

The decision depends on your play style. If you prioritize fluid combat and movement, a controller is a compelling option. However, if menu navigation and precise actions are crucial, mouse & keyboard might remain preferable. For Steam Deck users or those seeking a more relaxed experience, the controller support is highly recommended.

Conclusion: A Significant Upgrade

Path of Exile 2's controller support is a massive improvement over the original. The twin-stick system delivers smooth, responsive combat. While some aspects remain better suited to mouse & keyboard, the overall controller experience is vastly improved, making PoE 2 more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of players.

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