What You Need To Know About Game Controllers On Android

Android Controller Standards

One reason for this market dynamic is that official support for controllers was established in Android in version 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich. The support is so well-integrated you can control your phone or tablet by using a compatible controller.

Device Options

One of the cheapest iOS game controllers by MSRP is the $49.99 SteelSeries Stratus. You can buy many cheaper ones for Android. In fact, Android Bluetooth controllers work over the Human Interface Device protocol, so they can work with computers as well, though you may find compatibility a little suspect. Many Android Bluetooth controllers don’t work with their analog joysticks on desktops. But still, you can generally expect them to work on Android. Android’s chaotic nature, where manufacturers often apply different tweaks and functions to the OS that Google didn’t program, means any individual device may or may not work. But many devices that comport closely to Google’s standards should work.

Devices for Other Platforms

Android’s open nature means you can even use gamepads like the Wii remote, DualShock 3, and DualShock 4 with your Android phone or tablet. SteelSeries makes high-quality controllers, including the SteelSeries Stratus XL for Windows and Android. If you’re a multi-platform gamer, this device might be worth checking out. Not only does it support Android, but it also supports Xinput on Windows, giving it widespread compatibility with controller-capable games there. The Stratus does not have a clip to hold it to a phone, so you need to use it with a tablet or TV box. If you’re looking for a good budget option, iPega makes several controllers that work well. They also have some exotic options, including ones with touchpads for mouse control on the controller. There’s also a particularly rare option: a controller that actually supports a tablet and allows you to hold it in your hands instead of propped up on a table or hooked up to a TV. It may be a bit wide, but if you’re used to the Wii U tablet controller, this should work fine for you.

Games Supporting Controllers

While there are hundreds of games that support controllers, including first-person shooters such as Dead Trigger 2, action-RPGs like Wayward Souls, and racing games like Riptide GP2, support is occasionally limited. Often times, mobile developers are focused on iOS and less aware of Android’s capabilities.