Sorry To Say It, But Keyboard And Mouse Are Losing The FPS Market

Arstechnica- Considering that the PC is the platform that birthed both the first-person shooter and the MMO, many PC game fans are a bit perturbed that Activision and Bungie have yet to confirm a PC version of its recently unveiled FPS-meets-MMO Destiny. Bungie co-founder Jason Jones threw a bit more fuel on the fire of perceived PC gaming disrespect, though, by telling Destructoid that, in essence, Halo made keyboard and mouse controls obsolete.

Taken literally, this statement is inaccurate on its face. There are obviously still millions of people playing first-person shooters on their PCs with a mouse and keyboard (and more than a few games that don't have recharging health, automatic saves, and the like). But Jones' general point is clear: keyboard-and-mouse players are getting less and less important, from a business perspective, in the console-dominated first-person shooter market that Halo spawned. On this point, it's really hard to argue with Jones.

[GribbleGrunger]

I still can't believe that people still want to use letters and the space bar for playing games. It's damned near prehistoric.

[Pandamobile]

How is that different from using skittles and geometric shapes?

[Jamaicangmr]

Ok im primarily a console gamer (Geometric shapes) but that was the comeback of the century right there.

Bubbles for you both. Lol!

[ZoyosJD]

Analog sticks bro, 360 degrees of variation with variable speed, not just four keys allowing for 8 directions.

I love using a mouse, but having fine tuned character control while keeping your sights on target is key.

A combination of both is ideal for FPS, but I have yet to find a one analog stick attachment that is comfortable and supported in games.

Analog triggers/sticks can be advantageous in racing as well for those that don't want to buy a wheel and pedals.

[SolidStoner]

who cares about the keyboard, everyone played on one before console gaming... Its just buttons (same like on dualshock), the important part is "mouse"... its very useful in shooters and I can understand PC gamers, still I prefer analog stick in shooters (only because I play on PS3 nowdays and its same for everyone...), but I would love to see some sort of "mouse" like controller thing on consoles and PC, made 100% for gaming (shooters mostly)... everything else have it's own steering wheels, pads, touchscreens, joysticks, all kinds of stick controller thingies etc..... :)

[steve30x]

@ Tvensky : There is a mouse controller called the FragFX for consoles. I am waiting to see if it works on the next consoles and if it does Ill be playing a lot more console gaming.

http://www.splitfish.com/

[DragonKnight]

Depends on what you're playing for. Are you playing for the speed and precision to get a headshot before your enemy, or are you playing for the immersion. You will never get the immersion from a Keyboard and Mouse, that's undeniable. You CAN compete against a K&M user with a controller even if you likely won't be as fast or precise as a simple point and click.

[Pandamobile]

Lol, I don't know where you guys are getting this whole "controller is immersive" thing from.

"You will never get the immersion from a Keyboard and Mouse, that's undeniable."

I'm denying that right now, and every PC gamer on this website will say the exact same thing as me. That point right there is COMPLETELY subjective.

[Ducky]

"You will never get the immersion from a Keyboard and Mouse, that's undeniable."

No, that's arguable.
I've played shooters with a kb+m and controller, and after the first few minutes, the difference with either is unnoticeable.

You might think the controller is more immersive if you're uncomfortable with the keyboard... but once you're used to both, your focus goes straight to the game rather than the controls.

That being said, I usually play single-player FPS games with a controller.

-----
"You CAN compete against a K&M user with a controller"

Depends on the game. For a faster-paced competitive shooter like quake or unreal, the controller doesn't stand much of a chance.

For the more recent 'slower' games, a controller can be effective, but you'll hit a skill limit rather quickly, and might have to stick to more supportive roles to get consistent success.

[ratcop22]

i dont get it

[NCAzrael]

"You CAN compete against a K&M user with a controller even if you likely won't be as fast or precise as a simple point and click."

Yeah, and you CAN compete against a Lamborghini with a Volkswagon. Doesn't mean you're going to win.

I'll agree that an analog stick for movement gives a better control over the precision of movement, but a mouse will always be more accurate for aiming. A mouse requires you to move the crosshairs to where you're aiming and stop. An analog stick requires you to move and then center your analog stick to stop moving. Doesn't matter if you let it go to snap back to center, there's still that little bit of movement left. That's why console games give you a larger hit box and a small amount of auto-aim. With a mouse you move to where you want to aim and that's it, just like aiming an actual gun.

[TheGamerDood]

For FPS, there is nothing better than a KB/MO...nothing! Also, what's this I hear about devices like the Eagle Eye converter and similar devices becoming popular on consoles...huh? Yeah, thought so. -_-

[Outside_ofthe_Box]

Keyboard and mouse was never meant for gaming. The only people that prefer keyboard and mouse for FPSs are people that don't care about skill.

Keyboard and mouse provide unrealistic precision, might as well be auto aim which is kind of funny because PC gamers are suppose to be hardcore. Controllers require more skill to use. Using the the sticks to aim provide a sense of a immersion as well. We as humans aren't born with crazy reflexes and super sharp vision in order to be getting headshots left and right as easy as it is to do with a mouse.

Those that prefer keyboard and mouse are people that are far too poor in skill in using two sticks to control the x and y axis into one focal point in order to take out the enemy. It's as simple as that.

If you are gonna disagree please leave a counter argument as I am interested in reading your responses.

Edit: @below I'll take it that you can't refute anything I said then.

[Pandamobile]

Do you actually believe the drivel that you spread on this website, or are you just a troll?

"Edit: @below I'll take it that you can't refute anything I said then"

Troll it is, but just for fun, I'll dignify you with a response:

"Keyboard and mouse was never meant for gaming."

Yet they've remained the default method of input for computers for like 30 years. Don't fix what ain't broke.

"The only people that prefer keyboard and mouse for FPSs are people that don't care about skill."

Unsubstantiated and baseless claim.

"Keyboard and mouse provide unrealistic precision"

This seems to be the basis for all of your arguments, but I've never come across another individual who shares your view. You're essentially arguing that a keyboard and mouse are TOO good of an input device. And while I agree with you that the mouse and keyboard are obviously the better input device for FPS games, there is still a learning curve associated with it.

"might as well be auto aim"

At least PC games don't have auto aim... Your argument's not looking too good right now considering pretty much every console FPS of the last 10+ years has come with a built-in handicap.

"We as humans aren't born with crazy reflexes and super sharp vision in order to be getting headshots left and right as easy as it is to do with a mouse."

You seem to be forgetting that we are in fact playing games.

"Those that prefer keyboard and mouse are people that are far too poor in skill in using two sticks to control the x and y axis into one focal point in order to take out the enemy. It's as simple as that."

A mouse moves in X and Y as well, in case you were unaware. The difference lies in in the increased speed and range of motion of my wrist and forearm compared to your thumb.

[papashango]

I've been fortunate enough to have used my mouse and keyboard on the the 360 with my Xim.

It wasn't pretty. In fact it wasn't even much of a challenge. ROFLstomping controller users gets boring quick.

[MikeMyers]

"I still can't believe that people still want to use letters and the space bar for playing games. It's damned near prehistoric."

What would you say if someone told you you can't believe how the dualshock still has the d-pad? A keyboard can give a player many more options than what a standard controller can. A mouse is also far more accurate than controllers. Controllers also have input lag and the aim is at times assisted.

The reason why keyboard and mouse are losing is because they have managed to mainstream gaming for consoles. A game once synonymous with PC gaming, Call of Duty, has exploded on consoles. We can also see the trend of appealing to more casual gamers. Civilization is a perfect example of how it was basically dumbed down for consoles. You have far more control and the game is much deeper on the computer.

[awi5951]

Hey console guys your not that good of a shot with a controller auto aim is always on with console games. Console sniper vs PC sniper with auto aim off trying to shoot a moving target at long range a controller doesn't have fine enough Dpi to line the shot up without auto aim before the pc guy takes your head off.

Controllers need dead zones in them to even function halfway decently. When they release a controller with 5600 DPI ill think about it.

You want to know how much better a mouse is than a controller try playing a shooter with a flight stick that's how bad it is.

[SilentNegotiator]

I love the mouse for aiming, but I hate using keyboards; I prefer comfortable, non-cramped button placement and more than 8 directions to walk (pressure sensitive, too, so technically no need for slow and fast movement buttons (even if so many devs do it anyway).

I'm tempted to get something like the FragFX, but I've read a lot of mixed reactions to them online.

[shutUpAndTakeMyMoney]

Now when pc gaming has growing and keeps growing m/k is losing ground? really?

So everyone will ne need aim assist? :(

I always found controlling a virtual gun with my right hand more immersive that using my right thumb.

Who aims with a thumb??

Try to emulate the motions right now were you are and using your mouse vs thumb. The thumbing will make you feel dumb.

This is kinda like when the xbox forza guy said people don't play shooters on pc anymore.

back to planetside 2..

[MmaFan-Qc]

the best fps player using a controller will never be able to be better than a mediocre player using mouse&keyboard.

[GribbleGrunger]

But when I look at my keyboard, I think 'typing'. I have never looked at my keyboard and thought 'games'. I've always thought it was unnatural to play games by bashing on something designed for secretarial work. This qwerty keyboard I'm typing on now was never designed for playing games, but controllers are. But some people are happy playing on a keyboard, so clearly you CAN get used to it. I just never did.

edit: But when you look at oranges, do you think 'juggling!'

[Pandamobile]

When I look at my keyboard I don't think anything. I just play my video games and think 'video games'.

[Linsolv]

Obvious troll is obvious.

Computers were designed around the keyboard. Given that no longer are typewriters to be found, you should be looking at your keyboard and thinking 'computer,' not 'typing.' That's naive. I do much less typing than I do entering shortcuts, using media keys, pressing space to play/pause, navigating web pages...

It's a computer tool. Not a typing tool. And implementing games such that they use the optimal device for computer control (the keyboard--the mouse didn't come along until literally twenty years later) to the best use possible is not in any way 'weird'--it's weird that you would use something else.

And for all the fact that I do indeed game with my 360 controller when the mood strikes, and I have owned every major console of this generation, modern consoles are not like arcade machines, which are highly specialized devices--they are computers that lack literally the central control implement of computers.

[Elwenil]

If you don't like a keyboard, then use something like a Nostromo SpeedPad. But either way, controller or keyboard, they both are just buttons. I think just about any unbiased gamer will agree that analog sticks are a poor substitute for a mouse and while the "WASD" controls may be hard for a console gamer to get used to, they are second nature to long time PC gamers. Believe me, there is nothing lost by playing on a keyboard, particularly with most PC games that need more than a dozen buttons or so for various control functions.

[kneon]

@Linsolv

While a keyboard is arguably the optimal tool for text input it is certainly not the optimal tool for most gaming, it's just that it's universally available on all PCs. Though even that is changing with touchscreen tablet/laptop hybrids.

Nothing beats a dedicated controller designed for the task. People don't drive cars or fly planes with a keyboard, they use something designed for the task.

I don't have too many issues with the mouse but I do have complaints about keyboards for most gaming. The layout is not very efficient for gaming, and that's from someone that can touch type at 90+ wpm. Also the keys are binary, either on or off. That's just silly, at the very least movement controls should be analog. This isn't 1980 anymore, I know, I was there ;)

[Nafon]

That's what I thought before i got into PC gaming. Aiming is way easier on PC once you get used to it. agree or not, aiming is way more difficult on consoles (but that's why they have auto aim). I play consoles with friends and PC when I feel like trying. precise movements other than aiming are way easier on consoles but aiming is better with mice. Controllers are thousands of times more versatile than a keyboard, but keyboard and mouse are better in FPSs.

[T2]

What I dont get is why ps3 never included k/m more ... I bought a Bluetooth rocketfish k/m works beauty but not alot to do with it :(

[SilentNegotiator]

Typing is no where near the complication of some of the miserable controls that PC developers employ. I've never had my three main fingers on WASD for control while holding down SHIFT/CTRL to run with my pinky and trying to activate a flashlight or something with my thumb.

Sure, you can change it 99% of the time, but that doesn't help when there are 10 more keys being employed than would be necessary if some devs weren't afraid to simplify things.

If not for gaming mice, I wouldn't be able to comfortably play a lot of games. Buttons in a comfortable, natural reach and not cramped make a world of difference.

[Roccetarius]

It's fine that you can't master the controls of KB / Mouse. Not everyone is a good player, but don't come come up with any stupid claims, because you prefer controllers.

[-Falaut-]

Wow, I've pretty much agreed with every comment you've made so far that I have read on N4G...until right now. (maybe you're being /s)

c'est la vie

[GribbleGrunger]

...... :) We can't always agree.

[adorie]

I've played Dead Space 2 with both controller and k/b and I'm fine with either way, although k/b seems more responsive to me, I'm "adaptable" <--lol

All this talk of what's better is just subjectivity, especially with one comment pointing out how the best of both worlds can be had with a mouse controller.

[nnotdead]

@adorie

3rd person shooter/action game is the only time I prefer the controller.

[Blastoise]

I agree, I can understand the accuracy of a mouse, but I'm really not a fan of the "ASDW" set up of the keyboard. Just feels unnatural and uncomfortable to me. If I played on PC I'd probably just buy one of those 360 controllers for it lol

[Hufandpuf]

It's "WASD". That shows how much you've actually played a PC game. If at all.

[Blastoise]

@Hufandpuf

Are you serious? -_-'

[karlowma]

Dude if you rest your fingers on wasd, then keep your hand in that shape and grasp your controller, you will find that it's exactly the same.

PC gamers haven't been using wasd for 20 years because it's uncomfortable...

[tachy0n]

gaming mouse have something called DPI and many mouse vary, the more the better!

controllers? dont have anything like that, they remain generic.

gaming mouse and keyboard are superior, even Microsoft confirmed that years ago, when they put PC gamers against console gamers, guess what? CONSOLE PLAYERS GOT SMOKED ALL THE TIME!!!!

THIS COMING FROM MICROSOFT: "The console players got destroyed every time," Sood added. "So much so that it would be embarrassing to the XBOX team in general had Microsoft launched this initiative. Is this why the project was killed Who knows, but I'd love to hear from anyone involved --- what happened?"

as you can see that is the reason why microsoft didnt put cross-play games(PC and X360)

LOOK AT THIS PROOF!!! http://www.tomshardware.com...

[nnotdead]

I'll give you the uncomfortable argument. it took me a while to get used to kb/m when I first starting playing on the PC. spent most of my time playing on consoles, so the move wasn't the easiest, but I don't think its much different than getting used to a new controller. spend some time with it,and it becomes second nature.

[NCAzrael]

I'd actually have to agree with Hufandpuf. The simple fact that you don't even know the proper vernacular for the control scheme suggests to me that you haven't spent much time playing games on a PC.

With the average person's hand size, it is actually fairly easy to rest your fingers on the A, W, and D keys while keeping your pinky on shift and your thumb on the space bar. I see nothing uncomfortable about this at all.

[SilentNegotiator]

It only proves that he doesn't hang out in forums with pathetic Elitists that consider people that don't call four keys by their "proper" name to not be "real" PC gamers.

[TacoTaru]

May be prehistoric but the reason they can't have fps servers shared by PCs and consoles is that the folks playing on consoles will lose to the mouse and keyboard players every time.

[Bigpappy]

Yeah, the mouse is faster, but takes away from the hold sense of shooting. It feels like I am just pointing to the location and confirming, that is where the bullet needs to go. The controller lends itself to a more immersive shooting experience, and most people I know prefer to play FPS with it, even on PC.

[TacoTaru]

By that logic the move or wii remote would be the way to go because they are closer to the whole sense of shooting. The wii remote lends itself to a more immersive shooting experience. Don't like it though.

[NCAzrael]

Have you ever used a gun before? You don't point the barrel of the gun where you want to shoot, and then quickly center your body in the direction you're aiming. You point, and you shoot. Pretty much the same function of aiming with a mouse. You point, and you click.

But by all means, handicap yourself into a slower reaction time with an unrealistic way of aiming, especially if you're going to be playing on a PC. Just let me know what servers you play on so I can be sure to rack up the free kills.

[profgerbik]

Dunno what kind of mouse and keyboard you are using but mine are both far from prehistoric.

I really don't get that, that is like me saying I can't believe people still use sticks and buttons to play video games. Really no difference except for mouse and keyboard there is, it's actually a crap load more accurate.

I beg to differ, AWSD feels much more natural, movement is much more predictable in the sense of reliability. Analog sticks and thumbs just aren't precise enough with movement, I just find it easier to do for some to use a controller versus AWSD.

Not that it is worse just requires a learning curve.

[Qrphe]

You could always use something like this.

http://cdn.dualshockers.com...

The thing with PC gaming, is that you can set up any input device you wish. It's ok if you'd rather use a gamepad when playing some PC FPS and get destroyed like Blastoise or if you have mastered the trackball and have transcended with your pin-point accuracy or if you just like the traditional mouse. It's all part of the freedom of PC gaming.

[SatanSki]

"It's damned near prehistoric"
And still so much better for shooters, strategies, mmorpgs etc.. Consoles and their controllers was designed for simple games with simple controlls

[Lior]

Yet keyboard and mouse controls will smash anyone playing with a controller on Fps games like BF3. Consoles use autoaim which takes all the skill out of gaming. No noob on Pc using a controller will get more than 5 kills on a large BF3 map all game.

[LeoDDestroyer]

I seen someone get top three on pc's bf3 using a controller so I have to disagree with that.

[GraveLord]

I can't believe people are still using buttons.
Kinect is the future. All hail the master race.

[paddystan]

It's not even near pre-historic. Im a console and PC gamer, keyboard and mouse if way better than a controller.

[Jio]

Because keyboard and mouse are more accurate than an analogue stick.

[ALLWRONG]

Triggers

Nuff said

[Mounce]

As much as we'd all rather play video games with our mind, that time hasn't arrived yet.

How one can prefer an inferior piece of technology over a keyboard and mouse could frankly only derive from someone who is an envious console peasant.

Letters and words my dear boy, are weapons that cause war, they are what you used right now to type your weaponized-message....And without that keyboard you typed that message on? You'd be unarmed and useless. A keyboard in that case? A dangerous weapon if in the hands of someone skilled enough to wield it in GLORIOUS ONLINE COMBAT....

But enough talk, HAVE AT YOU!

[parkerpeters]

GG, come on. It is far more accurate than analog sticks. You just aren't used to it.

BTW, this is poorjack from LBP central. How's it going!?

[zeal0us]

I tried using keyboard and mouse for FPS on the pc but man does it feel weird. I have no problem using it for mostly any other genre of gaming but FPS its a pain.

I end using Xpadder or PGP or Joy2Key just so I can play some MMOFPS/FPS with no controller support.

[MostJadedGamer]

Agreed its time for PC gamers to grow up. All games should be played on a controller.

[clarkdef]

I will say if anyone actively uses a KB&M for gaming, they should do 30 mins of shoulder/neck yoga every morning after a hot bath.

And controller users should do the same but with forearms and hands warming up using a bowl full of hot water.

[DigitalSmoke]

The mouse is sharp and quick, and it seems like it only has plusses, untill you realize that there's no restrictions on the character models letting you turn a 180 at 34583 miles an hour.

Sticks do let you feel the weight, so it isnt as clear cut as PC gamers like to think.

[profgerbik]

Can spin the same way with a analog sticks on a controller.

I feel like many of you have been playing on consoles a little too much. Really no debate, keyboard and mouse is better.

Whatever you choose to use is your prerogative of course but when it comes to true speed and precision, mouse and keyboard so far has not been beat.

[DigitalSmoke]

Well you didn't get the point...
There are NO restrictions with a Mouse in movement speed, ever.
So on you can do a 360 at 1000 miles an hour, with a super heavy mini gun, which is bullshit, specially when looking at a character model spinning round its axis.

Console sticks/games can be restricted from moving like your gun like its made from cardboard.

You still might not get it, but hey, some ppl think Justin Bieber is awesome as well.

[NCAzrael]

So your argument is that it is perfectly fine to be handicapped in your reaction time by the limitations of an analog stick because it prevents you from doing unrealistic things like spinning a full circle in under .1 seconds? Never mind the fact that in real life I can turn a 180 and fire, hitting my target pretty much dead center, in less than a second, but it takes twice as long to turn in every console shooter. But it doesn't matter how much it hinders your ability to move as long as it keeps you from doing unrealistic stuff?

Pretty sure I get it, but it makes about as much sense as a Justin Bieber fan.

[Hellsvacancy]

So basically, what your saying, in theory, is that if I play BF3 using a m/k, im going to be even better than I am now?

I mean, im AWESOME on BF3, I really am, I know exactly what im doing, and most of the time what other players are doing, Im top of the scoreboard the majority of the time, not many players outgun me, im too quick, and I do all that with a PS3 controller (sensitivity is high), so if I was to use a m/k ill be EVEN better, I find that hard to believe, how can you improve upon AWESOME?

Add me on the PSN, join me for a few rounds ill prove my point (anyone)

[nypifisel]

Wow, whether you can do a 180 in a certain speed is up to the games design not the input method.. A mouse and keyboard is just as immersive as a controller if not more.

There's just so many wrongs with the immersion arguments that are being thrown around here, especially that the stick would have an advantage in this field, this can't be more wrong;

I think many people in here when they're talking about this probably mean games like COD and games of that sort which aren't very immersive to begin with, so it hardly matters if you can do a 180 in light-speed or not. An immersive military shooter is for instance Arma II on PC, that game uses the KB/MO setup and are 100x more immersive than any console shooter I've ever seen, and the thing about it is that it's not even doable on a controller.

I was in the army for 2 years and it's laughable that any one of you would even talk about a console FPS like COD with a controller input as being "more immersive" due to control hindrance. When I had a firing exercise I had full control over my movements, sure they weren't instant but at least I decided where to point my gun and simulating this should be a product of game design, not clunky controls.

[araman]

"Sorry to say it" just screams bush league journalism. Wait, this is Ars Technica? Get your act together guys!

[-Gespenst-]

A mouse is SOOO much better for aiming, but for movement the controller will always top the keyboard.

I wonder, maybe they could introduce a kind wii-mote like controller for the left hand for moving, and then you could retain the mouse in your right hand for aiming / looking...

[Letros]

It exists

http://www.razerzone.com/ga...

[Pillage05]

Might be able to use the playstion navigation controller for the move. Wonder if that works with the ds3 driver.

[kevnb]

I dont know about that. I can even tell when someone is using a controller in videos because they move so awkwardly.

[-Gespenst-]

I get so cramped using keyboards to move. A controller with good grip and an analog stick is so much more intuitive and comfortable.

[karlowma]

PC army, ASSEMBLE!

I hope this doesn't become the FotM article.

[tachy0n]

put this link on the faces of any console player that dares to say controllers are better:

http://www.tomshardware.com...

[Megaton]

Bungie's just echoing something Microsoft said awhile back. More specifically, I think it was that Kinect doofus with the permanent sunglasses, Kudo whatever. Saying nobody plays FPS on PC.

[OmniSlashPT]

As much as mouse is more accurate, I think the console controller is more immersive, the triggers and analogs 'simulate' shooting and spriting, the vibration is also really cool when you're shooting and the fact that you use your whole hand instead of your fingers makes it more practical as well (i know the keyboard has more hotkeys and customisation).

Overall I think it depends on the player, I'm not used to keyboard/mouse for FPS, but I have friends that are complete pros but suck when it comes to a ps3 controller.

I just can't see this comments making the PC the god of gaming because mouse is more accurate and they have better graphics cards. It's not that simple people, or consoles would be dead.

[Picnic]

I think if my great grandfathers had been around to see the words 'sorry to say it' used in conjunction with any other sentence than 'But Charlie's bought it. I'm sorry he's not coming home' or 'You've just got the one leg now' then they'd have willingly lowered themselves in to their graves on a rotating spit. But to see it used with 'But Keyboard And Mouse Are Losing The FPS Market' is too bitter a pill to swallow.

Sorry on your behalf to all the veterans out there.

They know not what they do.

[MadLad]

I am good with either.

Preferably, keyboard is the way to go for shooters.

[DarthJay]

I love playing Battlefield on PC and using an Xbox controller and laughing when I go 46-13 against the almighty keyboard warriors.

With that said, whatever makes people happy. I can't do mouse and keyboard. I really enjoy a controller. If people feel the opposite, that's cool. I'm all about people doing what makes them happy. It just drives me nuts how full of themselves PC gamers tend to be.

There's no right or wrong answer here. Just have fun and play games.

[meatnormous]

I love how battlefield 3 will let you use a KB and mouse for ground combat and a controller for flying.

[DeadIIIRed]

I have to agree with you on some level. Most games made today are done with the controller in mind, so the benefit of keyboard/mouse over controller is small if non-existent.

Now games like the original operation flashpoint would make you cry if you tried to play with a controller.

[ThreshStar]

"There's no right or wrong answer here. Just have fun and play games."

According to your Agree/Disagree ratio, N4G users have offically taken the stance that: No, it's right or wrong. No fun allowed. No playing games Play how I want to play with the Controller/KB&M!

[DarthJay]

That's the keyboard warriors for ya.

[Kyosuke_Sanada]

Psshh......everyone knows Light Guns are where it's at. Nothing beats a pair of Konami Justifiers.....

[Smashbro29]

Naturally but we're on LCDs theses days.. it sucks I know.

[battlegrog]

As much as a mouse is so precise. I still think even shooters are way nicer and more relaxing with a controller.Hell all i play is pc shooters like DOD. It is just not relaxing using a keyboard mouse and sitting at a desk.

Though you cant use your controller on the couch.Since everyone is using a mouse you would get raped.

[Dogswithguns]

Sorry for those people still playing PC games.. or not.

[SP3333D-O]

The ideal input device is yet to be created. The mouse is much faster and more precise, but I usually prefer playing with a 360 controller on the PC.

[kevnb]

I like what I like, leave me alone. Bungie just stirred up crap because they can. So many exclusives on pc, but nobody ever goes on about consoles dying.

[NaiNaiNai]

Ironically the mouse and keyboard as still more accurate and more fine tuned than any console gamepad.

Its been proved many times in the past, get on your computer plug up a 360/ps3 controller and see if you can even compete with the lowest of players on a FPS.

you will find you won't.

[MRMagoo123]

actually i find i get in the top 3 nearly every fps i play on my pc with a ps3 controller in hand , maybe you just suck with a controller. When i play bf3 on my pc i have no troubles getting a k/d of 5/1 with controllers.

[TuxedoMoon]

Some games are better with certain controllers. Some people prefer controllers over a mouse and keyboard when they play FPS games. Nothing wrong with that. To say that it's obsolete? I don't think so. It's just player preference. There are people who are great at fighting games using an arcade stick, but give them a controller and they struggle. Playing a racing game with a controller is easier to me than playing with the arcade wheel. I prefer using a GC controller when playing smash bros brawl than using the wiimote/classic controllers.

I prefer using the old light gun (no cursor on screen) than the newer ones that show the cursor. The newer ones feel clumsy and slow since you have that stupid cursor to move around to shoot at things. when the cursor is there, it feels like im dragging across the screen rather than point, shoot, done.I'd be really happy if Nintendo brought back the Super scope. That, to me, was way more accurate to use than the wiimote. Battle clash and Metal Combat FTW.

Is the ps3 controller better for fps games than the 360 controller? It's all just player preference.

[Capodastaro]

I doubt it, but if so K+M still dominates at...

MMOs
RTS
Strategy
Puzzle
Side scroller
Point and click

Controller:

Shooters
Racing games and fighters at a stretch but always better with a joystick and steering wheel.

[ZoyosJD]

K&M would be MMO, RTS, and P&C. (stop trying to double down on RTS by calling it Strategy...if you mean turn based it is just even)

Puzzles going to PC would only be the case in P&C style as puzzles are adaptive to gameplay mechanics.

Fighters goes to controllers.

Side scrollers slight edge to controllers based on the same principles as fighters winning.

Shooters is a tie based on: analog stick > WASD and mouse > analog stick.

Racing and flight goes to controllers.

Action adventure goes to controllers.

Really a majority of what's best will all be personal taste, but when it comes to what is conceptually more effective this is the case.

[Saryk]

This is really laughable, thought it was April 1st!

[Smashbro29]

I think the best configuration is analog stick and mouse, think like a nunchuck or PS Move Navigation controller plus a mouse, the mouse is awesome it's usually the keyboard I take issue with.

[FlyingFoxy]

PC is for people who: want great games and graphics, OR for the pure speed alone, ensuring 60+fps which consoles cannot always guarantee.

That alone with the freedom of keyboard and mouse will always make me primarily a PC gamer.

[meatnormous]

60 fps is not hard to hit on a mid range pc, but everyone thinks it takes thousands of dollars to achieve 60 FPS. I love that I have a choice of chat clients to use, mods, graphics far ahead of consoles, and the ability to re assign keys in almost every game. I was a die hard sony fan, but my pc gets all my attention right now. My ps3s (all 3 of them) are used for netflix, amazon and streaming media from my NAS. I am very excited for the ps4 and what it will bring to the table, but its features will likely be on pc as well.

[Veni Vidi Vici]

Personally, I think analog stick are trash for FPS's but I'm smart enough to realize that different people like different things. Anyone arguing to end either control method is an idiot. Variety is a good thing.

If you want my opinion on where I think FPS's should head for both immersion AND precision, I'd point you to the Oculus Rift:

http://vimeo.com/59342255

I cannot wait for that to come out.

[DomceM]

some console gamers still think you can compete with a controller vs KBM?

JEez. Makes me wish they made CS:GO console vs PC play possible. I would predict the score would be approximately 16-0 every round in favor of KBM.

Its more accurate and its more immersive because you dont have to fight the analog sticks to try and aim at something. If they disabled aim-assist for console FPS games, then we would see how you would talk lol.

I love my PS3, just saying get real bros.

MS wanted to make that happen for xbox. They canceled it b/c worst pc players owned best console players. Here is a source:

http://www.techspot.com/new...

[Veni Vidi Vici]

Nice link. I always suspected that to be true but I never knew someone actually tested it out and proved it.

I definitely prefer mouse over stick but I know a lot of people won't put up with it. Don't ask me why but it's the truth. So instead of forcing people to use something they don't like, the industry should strive to find something better that most people can agree on. That's why I suggested the Oculus Rift in my previous post.

[DomceM]

ive got no problem with people gaming with kbm or controller. I do both so obviously im not just saying that.

I do enjoy humiliating fanboys who spout their perceived version of reality. Partly because its so easy. Facts own them hard.

[karlowma]

You can play (and dominate) CS:GO on PS3 with a mouse & keyboard.

[aliengmr]

Everybody has their preference. That's fine.

But here's the thing, just because more people play FPSs on console, which uses a controller says nothing about the KB&M.

Why would a console gamer, playing online with other console gamers, whom are all using controllers want to use a KB&M? There is no reason at all to do that. Everyone is on the same level and comfortable with a controller.

Having said that, I invite Bungie to implement cross-platform play between console and PC. Won't take long for KB&M to be suddenly relevant again.

If console gamers had the functionality to choose between the 2 they would, begrudgingly, be forced to use, at the very least, a mouse with a WASD pad just to compete.

The thing with KB&M is it takes far less skill to use well than a controller. Meaning, very good controller users will get toasted by average KB&M users. This is why we don't have cross-platform play.

[karlowma]

"The thing with KB&M is it takes far less skill to use well than a controller. Meaning, very good controller users will get toasted by average KB&M users. This is why we don't have cross-platform play."

That's like saying it takes more skill to drive a shitty car than a Formula 1 racer.

The advantage is in the more precise control, not in the relative skill of the people using them.

[aliengmr]

It takes much more skill to drive a shitty car at 230 mph.

The average gamer has MORE precision than their counterpart on console, thus it requires less skill than it does using a controller. That's what advantages do, they assist the less skilled.

That is in fact the reason there is no cross-platform play anymore.

[DomceM]

"Why would a console gamer, playing online with other console gamers, whom are all using controllers want to use a KB&M?"

Because KBM is more precise and owns controllers. This gives enormous advantage.

http://xim3.com/

aka console gamers are already using KBM to own other console gamers. Its not a level field anymore. And you can see them going like 30-1 on COD and other games in the youtube videos where they show off how these adapters work.

oh and the funny part is that its not even perfect translation of 1:1 movement. Its slightly off. And still you see the results...

[aliengmr]

I stand corrected.

I was not aware of serious KB&M use on console.

[LeoDDestroyer]

What about the ps move for fps. It has analog control for movement and a pointer for aiming. Also you have an advantage of shooting multiple people in your view without having to rotate your character to be centered with them. On killzone 3 I could shoot someone from the left or right without changing the direction I was facing.

[Pandamobile]

And we all saw how fast PS Move took off in FPS games, amiright?

[LeoDDestroyer]

I'm not saying its popular but it does combine the advantages of the two.

[Pandamobile]

You're not exactly getting any mouse-related precision and speed benefits by pointing a coloured ball at your screen.

[caperjim]

I never use KB & mouse for my PC games. I play mainly first person shooters. If a game don't come with gamepad support I wont buy it. Just my preference. Aiming with analog sticks feels natural to me.

[kingPoS]

Here we go again!

X-men VS The Brotherhood FIGHT!

ProX: I only want for everyone to treat each other as equals.
Mags: Never... the Master PC race shall not bow down to man.

LOL

[Sarobi]

I could use both Keyboard and Mouse & Controllers when it comes down to a good majority of games.. I guess that makes me a swiss army knife

[WeAreLegion]

No. Just...no.

[MadMax]

People actually still play games on a PC? Why would anyone want to waste the time and energy with all that havoc?

[squarecircle]

I couldn't imagine playing a FPS Simulator or a Simulator of any kind with a controller, with most PC games you need those extra keys on the keyboard.

As for the mouse; you do are a hell of a lot more precise. If the mouse is the perfect navigation for moving a cursor, why can't it be the same for a cursor that's in a game?

[urwifeminder]

I only use keyboard and mouse on old shooters 2142 and bf2 but my wasd hand goes numb after an hour of play,the 360 controller works great on new games i dont care if im not as fast its all about comfort.

[ATi_Elite]

So when Next Gen Consoles are released with Native KB/m support this stupid article will be USELESS and the editor's point will be NULL and VOID! Muh ha ha ha ha ha

also comparing a bunch of Multi-plat sales numbers is the wrong approach especially combining the 2 consoles sales figures as PC Gamers prefer dedicated PC Exclusives over multiplats for their FPS action.

I play:
Planetside 2,
Natural Selection 2,
Arma 2,
Tribes:Ascend,
Hawken,
Firefall,
Nuclear Dawn,
Blacklight:Retribution,
Chivalry Mediaeval Warfare

with a KB/m. and if controllers are so GRAND then put those controllers up against my KB/m and watch me DESTROY them!

Talk is CHEAP and I so wanna go head to head with controller users but Devs know it's an unfair advantage!

Mechanical Keyboard, 1600dpi Laser Mouse, Triple screen monitor with PERIPHERAL VIEW, 60+ fps = me slaughtering controller using LAMBS.

[Yukicore]

I'm waiting for a Joystick/keyboard and mouse hybrid. It would give you the best accuracy and variety. Joysticks are pretty awful for aiming, keyboard lacks precision of a joystick. So a hybrid like that would be just brilliant.

[Kidmyst]

I like to play FPS on PC and Consoles and like both setups and am used to both, But one thing for PC I like, is that EVERY PC game allows you to customize exactly what button does what action, controllers give you presets to choose from. I wish more developers for console games allowed this. Only a few games allow the change. So when I play one FPS and get used to the aim, fire and grenade buttons, then play another game where they are different. I just have a personal preference is all, set all PC FPS the same no matter what game it is.