Can Path of Exile 2 Be Played with a Controller?
Image Credit: Grinding Gear Games, Path of Exile 2 (POE2)
Path of Exile 2 introduces a major shift in movement and controls, allowing for full controller support right from launch. Unlike the first game, which was built primarily for mouse-and-keyboard input, PoE 2 has been designed with controller players in mind, offering a smoother and more refined experience.
If you’re wondering how Path of Exile 2 plays with a controller, how the controls are mapped, and whether it’s worth switching from mouse and keyboard, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Does Path of Exile 2 Have Controller Support?
Yes, Path of Exile 2 fully supports controllers as of launch. The developers have improved the controller experience significantly compared to Path of Exile 1, making it feel more natural and responsive.
According to Jonothan Rogers, PoE 2’s creative director, the game’s controller support has been vastly improved over the original, offering a much better experience, even on devices like the Steam Deck.
How Does Path of Exile 2 Play with a Controller?
When using a controller, Path of Exile 2 plays more like a twin-stick shooter than a traditional ARPG. The control scheme is designed to provide fluid movement and precise aiming, making it easier to handle fast-paced combat.
Controller Layout and Mechanics
Left Stick: Controls character movement.
Right Stick: Aims ranged abilities and attacks (for ranged characters).
Face Buttons (A, B, X, Y / Cross, Circle, Square, Triangle): Used for quick abilities and interactions.
Triggers and Bumpers (L1, L2, R1, R2): Map to skill slots for combat actions.
D-Pad: Often used for potions or quick item slots.
Since Path of Exile 2 also introduces WASD movement on keyboard, the shift to controller support feels more natural compared to the original game, where movement relied entirely on clicking.
How Does Controller Support Compare to Mouse and Keyboard?
There are some key differences between playing with a controller versus mouse and keyboard:
Pros of Playing with a Controller
Smoother movement – The left stick allows for fluid motion rather than clicking to move.
Better combat control for melee and ranged classes – Twin-stick aiming makes ranged attacks feel more precise.
More relaxed gameplay – Playing on a controller feels more natural when sitting back, whether on PC or a console.
Great for Steam Deck and couch gaming – PoE 2 is more accessible for players who prefer a more console-like experience.
Cons of Playing with a Controller
Slightly slower menu navigation – Managing inventory, skills, and the massive passive skill tree is more efficient with a mouse.
Less precise targeting for some spells – While twin-stick aiming is great for ranged combat, certain precision-based spells may still feel better with a mouse.
Item management can be clunky – Controllers typically struggle with inventory systems in complex ARPGs, and PoE 2 is no exception.
Overall, controller support is very well implemented, but some players may still prefer mouse and keyboard for managing detailed game mechanics like trading, crafting, and skill tree navigation.
Can You Switch Between Controller and Mouse & Keyboard?
Yes! Path of Exile 2 allows seamless switching between controller and mouse/keyboard. You can plug in a controller and start using it at any time, or switch back to a mouse and keyboard instantly.
This means you can use a controller for combat and switch to a mouse for inventory management and skill tree upgrades if you prefer a hybrid approach.
Is Controller Support Available on All Platforms?
Yes, controller support is available across all versions of Path of Exile 2, including PC, Steam Deck, and the upcoming console versions on PlayStation and Xbox.
Given that Path of Exile 2 is launching with full cross-platform play, controller players will be able to compete and progress alongside mouse-and-keyboard players without any issues.
Is It Worth Playing Path of Exile 2 with a Controller?
Whether or not you should play Path of Exile 2 with a controller depends on your playstyle and preferences. If you prefer fast-paced combat with fluid movement, controllers offer a great alternative to traditional mouse-based movement.
However, if you spend a lot of time managing inventory, trading, and interacting with menus, you may still prefer a keyboard and mouse.
For those on Steam Deck, consoles, or simply looking for a more comfortable way to play, controller support in Path of Exile 2 is well worth trying out.
Final Thoughts
Path of Exile 2 offers full controller support, making it much more accessible than its predecessor. The twin-stick shooter-style gameplay allows for smooth movement and aiming, making combat feel natural and responsive.
While some aspects, like inventory management and precise spell targeting, may still be better on mouse and keyboard, the improvements to controller gameplay mean players can enjoy PoE 2 on a controller without feeling at a disadvantage.
If you prefer a more relaxed gaming experience or want to play on devices like the Steam Deck, Path of Exile 2’s controller support is one of the best improvements over the original game.
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