In Starfield, a sci-fi role-playing game set in the year 2330, you can become a colonist in a new science-fiction universe filled with planetary exploration and space adventures.
But here’s the burning question: When it comes to playing Starfield on your PC, should you go with a trusty controller or stick to the keyboard?
We’ve got you covered with all the information you need to decide whether to use a keyboard or a controller.
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Does Starfield Support Controllers On PC?
Starfield is a sci-fi role-playing game developed by Bethesda Game Studios.
Set in the year 2330, it allows players to take on the role of a colonist in an entirely new science fiction universe as they explore planets and space.
Yes, Starfield has been confirmed to support controllers on PC.
Popular controllers like Xbox and PlayStation pads will work natively without additional configuration.
The official Starfield-themed Xbox controller will also be compatible with both PC and Xbox.
Steam’s built-in controller support ensures most controllers can be used.
Benefits Of Using A Controller For Starfield
Here are some of the benefits of playing with a controller on Starfield:
- Comfortable for casual gameplay: Controllers allow relaxed couch/bed play from a distance.
- Improved immersion: Controllers may feel more natural for third-person gameplay and ship flying/combat sections.
- Accessibility: Controllers enable accessibility features for those with disabilities.
- Familiar controls: Controllers use familiar button layouts from other games.
Disadvantages Of Using A Controller For Starfield
Here are some of the benefits of playing with a controller on Starfield:
- Less precision: The keyboard generally offers a more precise aim for first-person shooting.
- Limited customization: Controller buttons have fixed functions, unlike customizable keybinds.
- Missing features: Some complex functions may be harder to access compared to keyboard shortcuts.
Benefits Of Using Keyboard For Starfield
Here are some of the benefits of using a keyboard to play Starfield:
- Precise aim: Mouse aim provides pixel-perfect targeting important for combat.
- Customizable controls: The keyboard allows rebinding keys for optimal control layout.
- Access to features: Complex functions are easier to access through keyboard shortcuts.
- Familiar controls: The keyboard mimics controls many use from other games/PC use.
Disadvantages Of Using Keyboard For Starfield
Here are some of the benefits of using a keyboard to play Starfield:
- Less comfortable: The keyboard requires sitting up close for extended play sessions.
- Steeper learning curve: It may take more time to master unfamiliar keyboard controls.
- Lack of haptics: The keyboard lacks vibration and physical feedback like in the controllers.
Controller Customization Options In Starfield
Just like the extensive character creator, Starfield also provides robust options for customizing controller inputs.
Within the controller settings menu, each button can be remapped to alternate functions if desired.
This allows tailoring controls to personal preferences or specific playstyles.
For example, combat players may wish to swap melee and grenade buttons for faster access.
Additional customization options include button sensitivity, trigger response curves, vibration intensity, and advanced settings like button hold vs. toggle functionality.
These deeper options allow “fine-tuning” controls for a precise feel.
Players can even create named profiles for different controllers or save button layouts for specific games/characters.
Controller Options For Specialized Playstyles
Certain playstyles in Starfield may benefit more from alternative controller configurations.
For example, space flight simulator fans will want button mappings optimized for precise ship control and combat.
Prioritizing roll, pitch, yaw and thruster controls on the analog sticks and triggers could make dogfighting more intuitive.
Similarly, those focusing on melee combat may appreciate remapping attacks to different buttons for complex combo strings.
Accessibility controllers like the Xbox Adaptive Controller also open up new playstyles.
Its extensive button grids and software can replicate all normal inputs with adaptive switches.
Alternative controllers with paddles or buttons on the underside also give experienced players extra macros without taking their fingers off the sticks.
Should I Use A Controller Or A Keyboard For Starfield?
Both control methods are fully supported.
For casual play/exploration, a controller on the couch may be most comfortable.
But the keyboard likely has an advantage for combat/first-person sections where precision matters more.
Consider your preferred playstyle and environment. You can even switch between the two.
Ultimately, controllers and keyboard are viable control options for playing Starfield, depending on personal preference and the specific gameplay scenario.
For a relaxed exploration of planets and space travel, a controller on the couch provides a comfortable experience.
However, the keyboard delivers a competitive edge when more precise aiming and quick access to complex functions are important, such as in first-person combat.
Fortunately, Starfield supports both fully so players can switch between the two.
The Bottom Line
Controllers in Starfield allow kicking back with the game on a big-screen TV, while the keyboard replicates the familiar controls of many other PC games.
For most players, starting with a controller but keeping the keyboard accessible for certain activities will likely provide the best of both worlds.
The ability to choose the ideal input method for any situation ensures players can get the most out of their journey across the Starfield universe in the most enjoyable way.
Hopefully, with this guide’s help, you can decide if you should use the controller or a keyboard while playing Starfield.
