Dark And Darker Controller Support

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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06-01-2025

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Dark and Darker, the popular roguelike dungeon crawler, has captivated players with its intense gameplay and unforgiving challenges. However, one frequently debated topic amongst the community is controller support. While the game initially launched without native controller support, the developers have addressed this issue, albeit with some caveats. This post will delve into the current state of controller support in Dark and Darker, exploring its functionality, limitations, and the future outlook.

The Current State of Play: Is it Good Enough?

Currently, Dark and Darker offers controller support through third-party software, primarily Steam Input. This allows players to map controller inputs to keyboard and mouse commands, offering a degree of functionality. However, it's crucial to understand that this isn't native support. This means the experience isn't optimized for controllers in the same way a natively supported game would be.

While Steam Input provides a workable solution for some, it presents limitations. Precision aiming, crucial for successful combat in Dark and Darker, can prove challenging with a controller. Furthermore, the intricate inventory management system may feel clunky and less intuitive compared to using a mouse and keyboard. Players accustomed to the speed and precision of mouse and keyboard controls may find adapting to a controller frustrating.

The Pros and Cons of Controller Support (Via Steam Input)

Pros:

• Accessibility: Offers a more accessible gameplay experience for players who prefer controllers or find mouse and keyboard controls difficult.
• Alternative Playstyle: Provides a different and potentially more relaxed playstyle for veteran players.

Cons:

• Precision Issues: Achieving the same level of precision as mouse and keyboard is challenging, particularly with aiming.
• Clunky Interface: The in-game menus and inventory management system might feel cumbersome to navigate with a controller.
• Lack of Optimization: The overall experience isn't optimized for controllers, leading to suboptimal performance in certain aspects of the game.

The Future of Controller Support in Dark and Darker

The developers have acknowledged the community's desire for native controller support. While no firm release date has been announced, the potential for native support is strongly implied. Native support would likely address many of the current limitations, resulting in a smoother and more intuitive experience for controller users. We can anticipate improvements in aiming precision, inventory management, and overall usability if and when native support is implemented.

Conclusion: A Work in Progress

Currently, controller support in Dark and Darker is achievable but imperfect. While third-party solutions like Steam Input offer a playable experience, they don’t replicate the seamless integration of native support. The future outlook is positive, with the developers acknowledging the community's requests and hinting at the possibility of native controller support down the line. For now, players interested in using a controller should be prepared for a potentially less optimal experience compared to mouse and keyboard input.