Competitive video game scenes like fighting games aren’t new. Players used to meet up in arcades, but now it’s more accessible. Despite the change in platform, players are always looking for an edge. What’s better: arcade sticks or controllers in the Fighting Game Community (FGC)?
A Comparison of Controllers and Arcade Sticks
The most popular fighting games first appeared on consoles before coming to PCs. There have been a lot of changes to these controllers over the years, but their original design remains the same.
A controller tries to capture the magic of the arcade. Xbox Series X|S controllers and PS5 DualSense controllers are two of the best controllers on the market right now. Fighting game fans now have access to portable arcade sticks that are designed for fighting games. If you’re trying to decide which is better for fighting games, here are a few factors to consider.
1. Precision of Input
We need to look at what fighting games require to be competitive. Over 30 years of competition has created a thriving FGC. In this game, every input counts, giving new players a lot to learn. It’s all up to you as long as you’re precise and fast. That’s why you need a controller with precision input.
We’ll start with the controller. There are a lot of buttons on controllers that you can assign to different actions. There are usually only two ways to move. D-Pad or joystick. There are some downsides to both options, even though they can be liberating.
When used by a novice, the joystick can be imprecise. Using a joystick for a long time can also cause stick drift, which could make your character move without your permission. While the D-Pad has a better range of motion but is a bit harder to use.
When it comes to input precision, an arcade stick wins. A joystick gives you freedom of movement but a D-Pad gives you precision. You can play most games with eight input buttons on most arcade sticks. The other stuff in the game is controlled by button combinations. It’s more skill-intensive to use a controller than an arcade stick.
2. Sturdiness
Whenever you use a controller in fighting games, you’ll be pushed to your limits. Before you buy, make sure your input is durable. We’ll look at how they’re built. Both sides have a point. Several users praise the ingenuity and solid build of newer controllers, while other users don’t think they’re as good.
There’s no getting around it: controllers degrade faster now. Competition in gaming may also be to blame. Unlike mainstream controllers, arcade sticks can be seen in the process of making. The build quality of arcade sticks can be seen on a few YouTube channels. A lot of abuse is put on arcade sticks so they last a long time.
With proper maintenance, a good arcade stick can last for five to six years. Changing controllers is more expensive when they’re damaged, and they need to be changed more frequently.
3. Button Functions
Fighting games have their own input specs. The best user experience comes from researching what your game needs. Arcade sticks have a lot fewer buttons than controllers. All modern fighting games come with face and shoulder buttons.
The customizability of arcade sticks is one reason why some gamers wear them. Taking apart your arcade stick means you can change the layout, add buttons and compete in your favorite game. Customizing an arcade stick requires some technical skills. Depends on how many buttons you need in a fighting game, a controller might be better.
4. Comments
Since the release of the dual-shock controller, console games have had plenty of feedback. There’s varying degrees of feedback in most modern fighting games. When your player gets hit, you might just feel a small vibration. Professional players don’t like the distraction these vibrations cause, so it’s not often a factor when choosing between arcade sticks and controllers. In the end, it’s up to you.
For players who like feedback, a controller is the best option. Vibrational feedback doesn’t come with arcade sticks. It’s possible to introduce haptic feedback to arcade sticks, though some enthusiasts are playing with it. Aside from that, the DualSense controller provides haptic feedback, so your fighting games will be more immersive.
5. Mechanics
The competitive gaming scene has made ergonomics increasingly important. Playing long hours of your favorite fighting game calls for optimizing your environment for prolonged sitting. As surprising as it may sound, your controller can affect your setup’s ergonomics. Let me explain.
It’s easier to relax when you’re playing with a controller, because you can move it around. There’s also a variety of grip styles on modern controllers so you can hold them for a long time. You can also sit on whatever chair is most comfortable for you with a controller.
Arcade sticks are big and clunky. Boxes can be placed on laps or tables. Gaming sessions with the first option can make you hunch over and hurt your back. Using an adjustable table can limit the damage. You can adjust the height of an adjustable table until you find the right one that lets you use your arcade stick straight.
However, just playing comfortably is a hassle. Therefore, controllers are much more ergonomic than arcade sticks.
6. Adaptability
It’s the biggest difference between a controller and an arcade stick. These days, you can play most fighting games on PC and console. What about controllers and fighting sticks? Do both work? What’s the most convenient way to connect your fight stick or controller?
There’s a different degree of controller support on consoles and PCs. All controllers work with their respective consoles and PCs. Microsoft Windows is compatible with both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S controllers. Steam supports traditional controllers and arcade sticks, so most fighting games run on it. If your game runs on Steam, you shouldn’t have a problem with either option.
Consoles, though, are picky about which arcade sticks they allow. Your console will support different arcade sticks, so you’ll need to research them. Compatibility is more of a concern for console players than PC players. It’s seamless on PC, while only a few inputs work on consoles.
Which Is Better, a Controller or an Arcade Stick?
Now that we’ve covered a few criteria, let’s decide what input to use. A fighting game arcade stick is a must if you want to be competitive. It’s got unmatched precision and functionality.
There are still some top players using controllers in the fighting game scene. Although it’s possible, being good on a controller takes a lot more effort. It won’t be a problem if you put in the extra time. You’re better off with an arcade stick.
Take Your Business to the Next Level
Competing in fighting games is all about being the best. This has led to a passionate community of gamers honing their skills through fighting games.
The best gear makes you the best. You just have to do what feels right. Would you rather play with an arcade stick or a controller? Playing your favorite fighting games will be awesome, either way.