Playing Valorant with a controller can be a real challenge for players not accustomed to using it. However, if you're an avid console gamer and are used to conquering FPS shooters not only with a keyboard and mouse but also with a gamepad, then this guide is right up your alley.

Nevertheless, we hasten to warn you that the game from Riot Games developers lacks the necessary settings and capabilities to connect any third-party device. Therefore, we'll tell you about all available options and the consequences of their use.

How to Play Valorant with a Controller

If you still want to give it a try, you can use third-party programs such as JoyToKey or reWASD to map controller input signals to keyboard and mouse commands.

• Download and install controller mapping software such as JoyToKey or reWASD. These programs allow you to assign controller buttons to keyboard and mouse commands.
• Connect the controller to your computer using a USB cable or a wireless adapter if it's a wireless controller.
• Open the installed controller mapping software.
• In the mapping software, assign keyboard and mouse commands to controller buttons. For example, you can assign movement to the left analog stick, aiming to the right analog stick, shooting to the trigger button, etc.
• Adjust sensitivity settings in the mapping software to find a comfortable balance for you. This may require some trial and error to get the settings right.
• Once you've mapped controller buttons and adjusted sensitivity settings, save your configuration.
• Launch Valorant and test your controller setup in training mode or a custom game to see how it works.

Keep in mind that using a controller may put you at a disadvantage compared to players using a keyboard and mouse, especially in competitive games like Valorant where accuracy and quick reaction times are crucial. Additionally, Valorant's developer, Riot Games, does not officially support controller input, so using third-party mapping software may come with some limitations and risks.

How to Connect and Configure JoyToKey and reWASD

Despite the lack of native controller support in Riot Games' Valorant, there are several third-party programs that provide easy access and customization of gamepad controls for playing Valorant. Among the best of them are JoyToKey and reWASD – both software are easily customizable and compatible with most PC games.

JoyToKey and reWASD are programs for customizing keys and buttons on a gamepad for PC. They allow users to remap controller buttons, create macros, adjust stick sensitivity, and much more. With their help, you can tailor the controls to your needs. Both programs are regularly updated, so you don't have to worry about compatibility with your device.

First and foremost, it's worth mentioning reWASD, which besides convenient customization, has a set of ready-made configurations from the Valorant gaming community. In addition to the long and tedious setup, there is always an option to download a ready-made and fully adapted assembly for the game.

Installation and Connection Guide is quite simple, just follow the steps below and you'll definitely succeed:

1. Download and install the program

The first step is to download and install the reWASD program from the official developer's website or another trusted source. Make sure you download the latest version of the program to have access to all the latest features and improvements.

2. Connect your controller

Connect your controller to the computer using a USB cable or a wireless adapter if your controller is wireless. Make sure your computer recognizes the controller and is ready to work with it.

3. Launch reWASD

After installation, open the reWASD program.

4. Configure controller buttons or download ready-made configurations

In reWASD, select the button on the controller that you want to configure. Then assign the corresponding keyboard key or mouse action to this button. For example, if you want the "A" button on the controller to emulate pressing the "Space" key on the keyboard, simply configure the corresponding action. Or you can always download ready-made configurations.

5. Customize other functions

In addition to the basic buttons, reWASD allows you to customize other functions, such as analog sticks, joysticks, and more. This allows you to tailor your controller to your preferences and needs.

6. Save the configuration

Once you've configured all the buttons and functions, don't forget to save your configuration in reWASD. This will allow you to easily restore settings if needed.

7. Launch the game

Now that your controller is configured, you can confidently launch Valorant and test the functionality of the controller. After launching the game, make sure that all buttons and functions work correctly, and then head into competitive mode to experience the new sensations.

Note: Using a controller in games that are typically designed for keyboard and mouse may take time to get used to. However, with reWASD, you can enjoy Valorant with comfortable controller support.

Is it worth using a controller for playing Valorant?

One of the main advantages of using a keyboard and mouse in tactical shooters is more precise and faster control. Valorant is a game that requires quick reactions and precise shooting, with no aim assist provided, so players using controllers will have to rely entirely on their own skill.

In Valorant, as in any competitive game, having an advantage over the opponent is crucial, especially at higher levels of play. Players using the standard gaming setup (keyboard and mouse) often have more advantages than controller users.

Despite the ability to use reWASD to emulate keyboard and mouse control with a controller, such settings may be less effective and less accurate compared to actual keyboard and mouse usage.

However, for many players, using a controller may be more convenient or familiar, and this may be more important to them than achieving a potential advantage. Therefore, the decision to use a controller for playing Valorant depends on your personal experience, preferences, and goals.

If you play for fun and prefer a controller, then, of course, you can try using it with reWASD. However, if you aim for serious play at high levels or have ambitions in competitive mode, using a keyboard and mouse will likely be a more effective choice. We hope that our guide on using a controller for playing Valorant will help you decide which devices you want to conquer this game with.