Does MiSide Support Controllers?

If you're preparing to play MiSide, the psychological horror adventure game developed by AIHASTO, you might be wondering if the game supports controllers. Many players prefer using a controller for a more comfortable gaming experience, especially when playing immersive titles like MiSide, which features eerie environments and detailed exploration. In this article, we’ll dive into whether MiSide supports controllers and provide alternatives if you're looking for a controller-like experience.

Controller Support in MiSide

As of now, MiSide does not officially support controllers. The game is designed to be played using a keyboard and mouse, offering a more traditional PC gaming experience. Players are expected to navigate the game’s world and solve puzzles using these input devices.

Why Doesn't MiSide Support Controllers?

The decision to exclude official controller support in MiSide likely stems from the developer’s focus on delivering a precise and immersive experience using a mouse and keyboard. Psychological horror adventure games often rely heavily on precise movements, quick reactions, and menu navigation, which can be more easily achieved with a mouse and keyboard on a PC. Additionally, the game’s environment and puzzle-solving mechanics are optimized for the control schemes offered by these input methods.

However, despite the lack of official controller support, some players still prefer using a controller for comfort or ease of play. If you're one of those players, there are workarounds to use a controller with MiSide.

How to Use a Controller with MiSide (Third-Party Software)

Although MiSide does not natively support controllers, you can use third-party software to map controller inputs to the keyboard and mouse. Here are a few popular options to make this possible:

1. Steam Big Picture Mode

If you’re playing MiSide through Steam, you can use Steam’s Big Picture Mode, which has built-in controller configuration support. Steam allows you to remap controller buttons to keyboard and mouse actions, enabling you to play the game with a controller despite the lack of official support.

Here’s how to set it up:

  • Launch Steam and enter Big Picture Mode (click the controller icon in the top-right corner).
  • Go to Settings > Controller Settings.
  • Enable your controller type (e.g., Xbox, PlayStation).
  • Under Manage Game, configure the controls for MiSide to match your preferences.

2. Xpadder

Another option for using a controller is Xpadder, a program that allows you to map controller buttons to keyboard keys. Xpadder works with most controllers and provides a simple way to simulate mouse and keyboard inputs using your gamepad. You can configure the controller layout based on your personal preferences and the game’s controls.

3. JoyToKey

Similar to Xpadder, JoyToKey is a tool that allows you to map keyboard and mouse actions to your controller. It supports a variety of controllers and works well for most games that do not natively support controllers. With JoyToKey, you can create custom control layouts and use them to play MiSide with your controller.

4. DS4Windows (for PlayStation Controllers)

If you're using a PlayStation controller, DS4Windows is a tool that allows you to use a PS4 or PS5 controller on Windows. It can map your controller’s inputs to keyboard and mouse functions, allowing you to control MiSide as if it were a native controller-supported game.

Controller Alternatives for a Better Experience

If using a controller is important to you, but you don’t want to go through the process of setting up third-party software, consider switching to PC-compatible gamepads that might offer better compatibility out of the box. Brands like Xbox offer controllers with native Windows support, making it easier to configure and use, even with games that don’t officially support controllers.

Additionally, Steam’s Big Picture Mode offers extensive controller support for many games, even those that do not have native support. This means you can use the Steam controller or any other compatible controller with some level of customization.

Conclusion

While MiSide does not officially support controllers, you can still play the game with a gamepad by using third-party software to map controller inputs to keyboard and mouse actions. Tools like Steam Big Picture Mode, Xpadder, JoyToKey, and DS4Windows make it possible to enjoy MiSide using a controller, even though it wasn’t designed with controller support in mind.

For the best experience, however, MiSide is optimized for keyboard and mouse controls. The precision and flexibility offered by these input methods make navigating the game's dark and immersive world easier and more enjoyable. But if you prefer using a controller, these workarounds will help you achieve a more comfortable gaming experience while solving puzzles and exploring the eerie world of MiSide.