Do any pro gamers use controllers?

Yes, pro gamers do use controllers—but the choice of controller largely depends on the type of game, the platform, and the individual player's preference. While many pro gamers prefer using mouse and keyboard (especially for PC-based games, where precision and key mapping are crucial), controllers are still popular in certain genres and competitive settings, especially for console gaming and certain cross-platform titles. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Console Gaming:

• Controllers are the standard input device for most console games. On platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, professional players in titles such as FIFA, Madden NFL, Call of Duty, and Street Fighter often use controllers as part of their competitive setups.
• Fighting games (e.g., Street Fighter V, Tekken, Super Smash Bros.) are often played with controllers, as they are optimized for the inputs and combos that controllers allow. Some pro players also use arcade sticks or fighting controllers, which are a variation of traditional controllers.

2. Cross-Platform Games:

• Many multiplatform games, such as Fortnite, Apex Legends, Call of Duty Warzone, and Rocket League, allow players to use controllers regardless of whether they're playing on PC or console. Pro gamers who play these games on PC often use a controller for comfort, especially if they prefer the analog stick for movement.
• The use of controllers on PC has become more popular due to the rise of cross-platform play, allowing console players to compete against PC players, which has prompted some pro gamers to adopt controllers for consistency.

3. Racing Games:

• For racing games like F1, Gran Turismo, Forza Motorsport, and Mario Kart, pro players often use controllers because they provide precise control and are designed for that kind of gameplay. Though some players use steering wheels for maximum immersion, controllers are still widely used at the professional level for these games.

4. Advantages of Controllers:

• Comfort and Familiarity: Some players feel more comfortable with a controller because they are used to the layout, especially if they've been gaming on consoles for years.
• Precision in Certain Games: In certain games like fighting games, platformers, or sports simulations, controllers may offer more control and faster reaction times for the gameplay style.
• Cross-Platform Play: Controllers offer an easy way to switch between console and PC gaming seamlessly, which is important for games that are played cross-platform in tournaments.

5. Examples of Pro Gamers Who Use Controllers:

• Call of Duty: Professional players in the Call of Duty League (CDL) often use controllers as part of their competition settings, even when playing on PC. The game's mechanics and pace make controllers an ideal choice for most pro players in this genre.
• Fortnite: Some Fortnite pros like Bugha (the 2019 Fortnite World Cup champion) have famously used controllers, especially on PlayStation.
• FIFA: FIFA is one of the most prominent competitive sports games where controllers are the standard, and many pro players use controllers for their precision and ease of use.
• Rocket League: Rocket League is another game where players can use either a keyboard and mouse or a controller, but most competitive players prefer controllers for their enhanced control over movement.

6. Competitive Integrity & Controller Advantage:

• There’s often debate in the community about whether controllers give an unfair advantage over keyboard and mouse setups, especially in competitive FPS games. However, game developers like Epic Games (in Fortnite) and Respawn Entertainment (in Apex Legends) have implemented aim assist and balancing mechanics to make sure that controller players can compete fairly with mouse and keyboard users. In most esports, the competitive integrity of the tournament dictates whether controllers are allowed or if keyboard and mouse setups are required.

Conclusion:

While mouse and keyboard setups are still dominant in many genres like MOBA, FPS, and RTS games, controllers are used at a professional level for a variety of other games, especially in console-focused titles, fighting games, sports games, and racing games. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of game being played. For pro players in certain games, controllers provide the best control, comfort, and performance.