How to Get Comfortable with a PlayStation 5 Controller for Mobile and PC Gamers

Switching to a PlayStation 5 (PS5) controller can feel like stepping into a new world of gaming. For mobile gamers used to touchscreens or PC gamers loyal to their trusty mouse and keyboard, the advanced PS5 DualSense controller may seem like a steep learning curve. But don’t worry—with a little guidance and practice, you'll be gaming like a pro in no time. This post will introduce you to the unique features of the PS5 controller and provide actionable steps to help you get comfortable with it.

Understanding the PS5 DualSense Controller

Before you jump into the action, it helps to familiarize yourself with the features that make the PS5 DualSense controller unique.

Buttons, Triggers, and Touchpad

• Standard Buttons: Familiar ones like Triangle, Circle, Square, and X (Cross), alongside L1, R1 (bumper buttons), and L2, R2 (trigger buttons).
• Thumbsticks: Perfect for movement and camera navigation, these dual analog sticks offer precision.
• D-Pad: The four-directional pad for quick actions.
• Touchpad: A unique feature of the DualSense controller, the touchpad doubles as an input and navigation tool.
• Adaptive Triggers & Haptic Feedback: The L2 and R2 triggers offer variable resistance based on in-game actions, like drawing a bow or pulling a trigger, while the haptic feedback provides immersive vibrations tailored to what’s happening in your game.

For mobile and PC gamers, these may feel foreign at first, but don’t worry—we'll cover how to ease into using these.

Getting Started with the PS5 Controller

1. Find a Comfortable Grip

• Before you begin gaming, hold the controller in a way that feels natural to you.
• Place your thumbs on the thumbsticks, wrap your index fingers around the L1/L2 and R1/R2 buttons, and rest your middle fingers along the sides.
• Avoid gripping too tightly. You want control, not strain.
• The PS5 DualSense controller was designed with ergonomics in mind, so once you adjust, it’ll feel intuitive.

2. Practice Basic Movements

• Choose a beginner-friendly game (like Astro’s Playroom, which comes pre-installed on the PS5). This game specifically demonstrates all the features of the DualSense controller, making it ideal for practice.
• Use the left thumbstick to practice walking and running.
• Use the right thumbstick to control the camera and your character’s view.
• Once you’ve mastered basic navigation, consider moving on to games with slightly more complex mechanics.

Mastering Advanced Features

1. Adaptive Triggers

The adaptive triggers are designed to add depth to your gameplay. Different games use these triggers uniquely. For instance:

• “Call of Duty” games offer resistance when firing weapons.
• Racing games like Gran Turismo 7 use triggers to mimic acceleration and braking.
• Try experimenting with games that heavily feature adaptive triggers to appreciate the added immersion!

2. Haptic Feedback

• Walking through sand may feel gritty.
• Rain patters may send light, rhythmic vibrations through the controller.
• Play a variety of games to explore how developers use this feature to elevate the experience.

3. Touchpad Controls

The touchpad is an input tool that may feel like a smartphone screen. Games like Ghost of Tsushima use it for swiping gestures to interact with the environment. Practice making different swipes to get a feel for its responsiveness.

Customization Options

1. Remap Buttons for Comfort

If certain button placements feel awkward, you can remap the controls in the PS5 settings:

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Controllers > Custom Button Assignments.

Experiment and adjust buttons to ones that feel natural to you.

2. Adjust Sensitivity Settings

If you’re transitioning from PC, you might notice standard stick movements don’t feel as precise as a mouse.

Go to Settings > Controllers > Edit Sensitivity, and fine-tune movements for your liking.

Practice and Game Selection

Start with Single-Player Games

Beginning with single-player games allows you to practice at your own pace without being pressured by the competitiveness of online multiplayer. Games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales or Horizon Zero Dawn are excellent choices for newcomers.

Gradually Transition to Multiplayer

When you feel more confident using the controller, try multiplayer games like Rocket League or Fortnite. These games will challenge your quick responses and help you master the controller in real-time situations.

Make Gaming With the DualSense Feel Natural

Transitioning from mobile or PC gaming to mastering the PS5 controller is all about patience and practice. Get familiar with its unique features, adjust settings to suit your playstyle, and start with beginner-friendly games to build your confidence. Once you’ve conquered the basics, take on challenges like multiplayer matches or games that push the boundaries of the DualSense features.

Now, it’s time to hit start and level up! What will your first PS5 adventure be? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or tag us on social media with your progress.