The PlayStation 5's DualSense controller is widely regarded as a generational leap in gaming hardware, praised for its sophisticated haptic feedback and innovative adaptive triggers. While the console has faced criticism regarding exclusive titles, the controller's capabilities remain undisputed. However, these advanced features only reach their full potential in a select group of games that truly understand how to leverage them.
Games That Redefine Immersion
For those new to the PlayStation 5 ecosystem or looking to deepen their experience, certain titles stand out for their exceptional use of the DualSense. These games transform gameplay from a simple visual and auditory experience into a tactile one, making you feel every action.
A Plague Tale: Innocence & Requiem masterfully uses the adaptive triggers. Holding a trigger to sprint introduces resistance, mimicking the genuine struggle of fleeing from danger. The slingshot weapon also uses this feature, where delayed aiming worsens your precision. The haptic feedback is equally impressive, with the sensation of countless rats creating vibrations that feel like they are scurrying across your hands.
Bugsnax, despite its multiplatform release, remains best on PS5. The DualSense speaker emits the cute cries of the creatures, while haptic feedback changes with the terrain. Each gadget uses the adaptive triggers differently, making the simple act of catching a bugsnax uniquely satisfying.
Konami's Silent Hill f employs a clever, nostalgic trick. The controller's speaker emits static when you're near a hidden radio, a direct nod to the series' roots where static signalled nearby monsters. This sudden intrusion of sound from your hands into the real world is genuinely startling.
Unexpected Mastery of the Controller
Some games surprise players with their inventive use of the DualSense, proving that you don't need a blockbuster budget to create immersive feedback.
Chorus, the space combat sim, received a post-launch update adding adaptive trigger support. This addition makes firing each distinct weapon feel more impactful and immersive, enhancing an already solid title.
Arkane's Deathloop uses the controller in brilliantly subtle ways. Its weapon jamming mechanic is perfectly conveyed through the adaptive triggers locking up, forcing a weapon switch. Haptic feedback is constant, from gunfire to footsteps on different surfaces, and even distant fireworks. The nemesis character, Julianna, taunts you directly through the controller's speaker.
Perhaps the most unexpected entry is the deck-building game Inscryption. It uses haptic feedback for card placement and adaptive triggers for actions like ringing a bell or sacrificing cards, adding a physical weight to its dark, tabletop atmosphere. Its most shocking moments are accentuated by the controller in ways best left unspoiled.
First-Party and Cross-Platform Excellence
Sony's own studios and other developers have created defining DualSense experiences, some of which are available across platforms but shine brightest on PS5.
Kena: Bridge Of Spirits uses the controller to differentiate between light and heavy attacks through rumble. The sensation of blocking with a shield is particularly effective, and drawing Kena's bow with the adaptive triggers provides tangible feedback for a more powerful shot.
The enhanced edition of Metro Exodus on PS5 is arguably the definitive way to play. Haptic feedback makes each weapon feel distinct, and the adaptive triggers require varying pressure for actions like firing guns and rowing boats, significantly boosting immersion.
The puzzle platformer The Pedestrian didn't need DualSense support but features fantastic implementation. Nearly every action, from footsteps to picking up objects, triggers nuanced haptic feedback, enriching the game's atmospheric world.
In Stray, you don't just control a cat—you feel like one. Meows come from the controller speaker, and the adaptive triggers simulate the sensation of the cat digging its claws into surfaces. The haptic feedback lets you feel every purr and movement.
Housemarque's Returnal is a first-party tour de force. The adaptive triggers have a dual-stage function: a half-press aims, while a full click activates an alternate fire mode. The haptic feedback is incredibly detailed, with subtle pulses for individual raindrops.
Finally, Astro's Playroom and Astro Bot remain the gold standard. The former is a built-in tech demo that constantly delights with its creative use of every controller feature, from the touchpad to force feedback. Astro Bot builds on this foundation with some of the most satisfying and varied rumble effects ever felt in a game, perfectly synced to the on-screen action.
