Mobile gaming has evolved significantly over recent years, pushing beyond simple touch interactions to embrace more sophisticated control schemes. For many players, the touchscreen can feel limiting, especially for genres that benefit from precision and tactile feedback. Fortunately, a growing number of Android titles now support controllers, offering a more console-like experience right on your device. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, exploring games designed or optimized for controller use can dramatically enhance your mobile gaming sessions. Below are ten of the best Android games to enjoy with a physical controller, along with some additional recommendations worth exploring.
Stardew Valley
Few titles have aged as gracefully as Stardew Valley, a beloved farming and life simulation game. Despite its charm, navigating its menus and combat system can be frustrating using only touchscreen controls. The auto-attack feature, in particular, becomes cumbersome during expeditions to the Mines, where quick reactions are essential. Connecting a controller simplifies these interactions, making farming, exploring, and battling much more fluid. While you’ll still need to tap to select farm types, name characters, or access quests, the core gameplay becomes significantly smoother with a gamepad. If you haven’t yet experienced Stardew Valley on Android—or if you’re already hooked on other platforms—playing it with a controller is highly recommended. For more immersive mobile experiences, learn about crafting immersive experiences for small screens.
Dead Cells
The Android port of Dead Cells is a standout example of a game that shines with controller support. Playing with on-screen controls can be an exercise in patience, as the game’s fast-paced combat demands precision. Attempting to run and gun on a touchscreen often results in missed opportunities and unnecessary deaths. Fortunately, the game now supports nearly all major controllers, including those from PlayStation, Xbox, and Backbone One, allowing you to focus on the action without cumbersome interface issues. All DLCs are available, though they must be purchased separately. Subscribing to services like Google Play Pass provides access to Dead Cells, along with other premium titles, for a flat monthly fee. For tips on optimizing your gameplay, check out a comprehensive guide to modding in game dev tycoon.
Call of Duty: Mobile
While PUBG Mobile once dominated mobile shooters, Call of Duty: Mobile has since become the go-to for FPS fans, especially those who prefer controller support. The game supports PlayStation, Xbox, and Backbone controllers, delivering a console-like experience on your Android device. The gameplay itself is highly polished, offering fast-paced combat, a variety of modes, and competitive multiplayer. Although the game’s monetization model can be aggressive, its core shooting mechanics are top-notch. For players aiming to excel with controllers, COD Mobile pairs well with dedicated gaming peripherals, ensuring fair matches against other controller users. Discover effective strategies for mobile gaming success by visiting comprehensive strategies for excelling in game dev tycoon.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is a true classic that made its way onto Android in 2020. The port is based on the PSP’s Castlevania: Dracula X Chronicles, featuring improved translations but retaining the original gameplay experience. Playing with a controller makes navigating its intricate castle and engaging in combat much more manageable, despite some UI scaling issues and black bars on certain phones. The game’s atmospheric design and challenging gameplay remain compelling, making it one of the most played Android titles with controller support. To create more engaging gameplay sessions, explore crafting immersive experiences for small screens.
Crashlands
Crashlands is an action-adventure RPG renowned for its humor, deep crafting systems, and engaging gameplay. Although initially released years ago, it continues to be a favorite, especially when played with a controller. The game involves exploring, battling, and crafting in a vibrant world filled with quirky characters. Touch controls, while functional, often feel clunky, but the game’s experience is vastly improved with a gamepad. Its sequel, Crashlands 2, is also available on Android and promises even more adventures, though it carries a premium price of around $10. For more insights into boosting your gaming performance, consider reading a comprehensive guide to modding in game dev tycoon.
Alien: Isolation
Alien: Isolation stands out as one of the most immersive horror experiences available on Android. Originally released over a decade ago, its port to mobile devices supports full controller compatibility, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Razer Kishi controllers. The game’s suspenseful atmosphere and tense gameplay translate surprisingly well to touch devices, providing a chilling experience with the right hardware. You can even try the first two missions for free to test compatibility before committing. For more tips on optimizing gameplay and control schemes, see strategies for excelling in game dev tycoon.
Vampire Survivors
Vampire Survivors captured my attention in 2022 with its addictive, straightforward gameplay. Its minimal control scheme—a single joystick—is perfectly suited to controllers, which I prefer for better maneuverability. The game involves evading hordes of enemies that swarm from all directions, making precise movement crucial. Playing with a controller helps avoid accidental cover-ups and improves reaction times. The game is available as a paid app or through Google Play Pass, offering an accessible way to enjoy its endless waves of monsters. To deepen your understanding of game design, check out a guide to creating immersive experiences for small screens.
Terraria
An enduring favorite, Terraria offers endless exploration in procedurally generated worlds. Its vast content, ranging from building to combat, keeps players engaged for hundreds of hours. The game has been on Android for over ten years, with versions even existing for Windows Phone. Its low price point and inclusion in services like Google Play Pass make it accessible for newcomers. Playing with a controller enhances the experience, particularly during combat and building activities. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to jump in and see why it remains a top choice for mobile gamers.
TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge
Fans of classic arcade beat ’em ups will love TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge. Drawing heavily from the 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series, it boasts pixel-perfect visuals and authentic voice acting from the original cast. The game plays flawlessly with a controller, and online multiplayer allows for chaotic co-op fun with friends. Originally tied to a Netflix subscription, it is now available for individual purchase, making it accessible to a wider audience. Its fast-paced combat and nostalgic charm make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Streets of Rage 4
The Streets of Rage series continues to thrive, with Streets of Rage 4 being the latest installment. The game features smooth gameplay, stunning visuals, and online multiplayer support. Like TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, it benefits greatly from controller support, delivering a true arcade experience on mobile. If you’re subscribed to Netflix, you might prefer the earlier Shredder’s Revenge, but Streets of Rage 4 remains a compelling buy for those who want a standalone experience. For more retro gaming options, explore classic titles available through SEGA’s official collection.
Bonus: Game Streaming and Emulators
While the Android library is extensive, it doesn’t replace the vast array of PC and console titles accessible through game streaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce Now. Using a compatible controller, you can stream high-quality games directly to your device, expanding your gaming universe far beyond native titles. Additionally, most emulators on Android support controllers, allowing you to relive classic games from various consoles. It’s important to use legally obtained ROMs, ideally ripped from your own copies. For detailed information on emulation options, see a guide to best emulator setups for Android.
By embracing controller support, Android gamers can unlock a new level of enjoyment, turning their devices into portable gaming consoles capable of handling both modern and retro titles.