Updated by Ivan Spasojevic on November 11, 2024
– swapped a game, updated parts of content.
As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring digital worlds on my trusty iPad, I can honestly say that these games are absolute gems! From the thrilling action of Death Road to Canada to the endless crafting adventures in Terraria, there’s something for every kind of gaming enthusiast.
Hey there, fellow gaming enthusiast! Dive into my curated collection of the top 20 iOS games, all optimized for controller use to elevate your gaming sessions to new heights. This diverse lineup spans multiple genres, offering a blend of free mobile games and premium picks that cater to every taste. Let’s embark on this exciting gaming adventure together!
As a gamer, I’ve found that using a controller instead of my phone’s touchscreen really amps up my mobile gaming experience. It adds an extra layer of control and precision that makes games more immersive. Plus, if you’re one of those players who’s used to console gaming, then controllers might be your preferred choice too. They can help make the transition from console to mobile smoother and more enjoyable.
Is it possible to connect a controller to a mobile?
With the advancement of technology, controllers are no longer limited to consoles but can also be paired with mobile devices easily. Nowadays, controllers and mobile devices come with native support for easier pairing and software installation. All you have to do is find a good and suitable controller which is supported by your mobile.
How to connect a controller to a mobile?
If you have found your favourite controller and wish to pair it with your mobile device, first, determine which type of controller it is. Basically, there are two types of controllers one is wired and the second one is wireless.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve found that wired controllers often need an OTG (On-The-Go) USB adapter to connect seamlessly with my mobile device. A quick search online will provide you with the necessary steps for pairing. On the other hand, wireless options leverage Bluetooth technology, making them a breeze to set up and use with your device.
When it comes to the two types of controllers, wireless controllers tend to be user-friendly with their simple setup and pairing processes. Conversely, wired controllers can sometimes encounter compatibility problems and the installation procedure may not always run smoothly.
With the fundamentals behind us, let’s explore a collection of top iOS games that offer controller compatibility!
1 Asphalt 9: Legends
Publisher:
Gameloft
Available on: iOS + Android + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Asphalt 9: Legends
Among numerous racing games, none can surpass Asphalt 9 for its thrilling action and quality. The game is brought to us by the renowned publisher, Gameloft, and, as the title implies, it’s the ninth game in the Asphalt series.
- Asphalt 9: Legends review
Among racing games available on iOS and Android, Asphalt 9 stands out as a crowd favorite. It boasts a wide variety of vehicles, ranging from everyday models to rare, high-end cars, which helps account for its enormous player community.
2 Call of Duty Mobile
Developer: Tencent
Publisher: Activision Blizzard
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Call of Duty Mobile
Without a doubt, this iconic shooter game has made a lasting impression since it first hit the scene. For several years running, it has reigned supreme among its peers and continues to challenge them fiercely. Moreover, the advent of esports competitions has brought together gamers from every corner of the globe.
It is fairly easy to control characters in FPS games and Call of Duty: Mobile has native support for controllers. We recommend using a controller with a vibration feature that will add an extra punch when you go on a killing spree.
3 Jetpack Joyride (previously Machine Gun Jetpack)
Developer: Halfbrick Studios
Publisher: Beatshapers
Available on: iOS + Sony PSP + Android + PlayStation Vita + Facebook
Find out more about Jetpack Joyride (previously Machine Gun Jetpack)
Many gamers enjoy playing infinite running games using a gamepad, and there are numerous games that accommodate this preference. Among the top choices in this category, Jetpack Joyride, stands out as one that has recently integrated gamepad support. This means players can now connect and play seamlessly with their controllers without encountering any compatibility problems.
Lately, the publisher introduced an updated game called Jetpack Joyride+ on Apple Arcade. This game can be played with controllers as well. Simply choose your preferred jetpack and glide past endless challenges!
4 Teacup
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Teacup
In contrast to other games on this roster, Teacup presents a unique spin. It’s an enchanting, endearing adventure game centered around hosting a tea party, with a captivating narrative drive. Since you’ve run out of tea for your soirée, you embark on a quest to gather essential ingredients hidden within your town. Along the way, you encounter a variety of characters, each with their own tasks. The game is designed to be completed in less than an hour, offering a tranquil, laid-back experience perfect for unwinding in the evening!
5 Dead Trigger 2
Developer: Madfinger Games
Publisher: Madfinger Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Dead Trigger 2
If you’re a fan of the traditional zombie apocalypse theme, Madfinger’s Zombie FPS shooter is definitely worth giving a shot. Dead Trigger 2 immerses you in a world overrun by zombies, challenging you to survive among them while battling and gathering resources necessary for your own survival.
- Dead Trigger 2 review
In this game, there’s a customizable control interface where you can adjust settings according to your preference. Furthermore, it offers over 600 post-apocalyptic scenarios for you to explore, along with more than 30 different types of weapons to eliminate the unsettling monsters.
6 Life is Strange
Developer: Don’t Nod
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Life is Strange
Among the top-tier story-focused games, Life is Strange stands out, particularly when played with a gamepad. The series spans across five episodes where you’ll be challenged to make critical decisions that could significantly impact the destiny of the town.
This game gives you control over time, enabling you to modify past and upcoming events. Notably, it’s compatible with a wide range of iOS devices and controllers.
7 Shadowgun Legends
Publisher: Madfinger Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Shadowgun Legends
Shadowgun Legends is a well-liked first-person shooter boasting stunning visuals, offering not just multiplayer action but also an engrossing single-player storyline and team-up missions. This game abounds in various key features like diverse weapons, armor, and aesthetic accessories, allowing you to fashion a one-of-a-kind warrior.
Shadowgun Legends has gained popularity because it offers numerous social features that enable interaction among players in multiple ways. This game is equipped with controller support, enhancing the gaming experience even further. For individuals seeking a first-person shooter to enjoy alongside friends, Shadowgun Legends stands as an excellent choice!
8 Grand Theft Auto: Vice City 10th Anniversary Edition
Developer: Rockstar Games
Available on: iOS + PlayStation Phone (Xperia Play) + Android + Steam
Find out more about Grand Theft Auto: Vice City 10th Anniversary Edition
In honor of its 10th anniversary, Rockstar Games released the widely acclaimed open-world game, Grand Theft Auto Vice City, on mobile platforms. As reported by the developers, it has been specifically tailored for optimal performance on iOS devices and includes controller support as well.
For those well-versed in the initial game, they’ll find themselves quite comfortable. They’ll have another chance to relive Tommy Vercetti’s questionable decisions, or even worse ones, and this time around, it promises to be an even more satisfying experience.
Download Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
9 Bike Baron 2
Developer: Cornfox & Bros.
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Bike Baron 2
Perfect choice for enthusiasts who can’t get enough of racing games! With endless levels to conquer, you can challenge fellow gamers on any iOS device. The acclaimed Bike Baron 2 is ready for download now.
This feature enables you to design personalized levels, adjusting track layouts and difficulty levels as per your preference. Furthermore, you have an opportunity to outshine your peers by climbing up the rankings, with a chance to see your name listed on the leaderboards. Notably, it’s one of the top-tier iOS games supporting controllers!
10 Minecraft – Pocket Edition
Developer: Mojang
Publisher: Mojang
Available on: iOS + PlayStation Phone (Xperia Play) + Android + Windows Phone
Find out more about Minecraft
The widely recognized sandbox simulation game, Minecraft, dominates the market and can be found on numerous platforms. At this moment, it’s leading the pack in popularity on both the App Store and its download numbers continue to climb steadily.
- Minecraft review
In Minecraft, you’ll embark on endless journeys through various worlds and construct unique structures from the ground up. The creative freedom in this game is boundless, allowing your ideas to soar without any restrictions.
11 Dead Cells
Developer: Motion Twin
Publisher: Motion Twin
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a unique, 2D-based action-platformer where you’ll play as an outcome of a botched experiment, venturing through a castle and its surrounding areas in search of the truth.
- Getting a Cavern key in Dead Cells
- Here’s how to acquire Gardeners keys
In Dead Cells, after any character’s demise in battle, the game transitions to a new stage with a fresh theme, yet preserves your best-achieved score. Furthermore, the assortment of weapons and loot scattered across each level is randomly generated, offering almost infinite replay value.
12 Madden NFL 25
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Madden NFL 25
Among American Football League games, EA’s Madden NFL 25 Mobile Football stands out as one of the finest. With NFL 25, you can fashion a personalized player avatar and join forces with well-known teammates for an engaging gaming experience.
Once you advance to a particular stage, you gain the ability to form your own squad and acquire players by utilizing the in-app currency. Additionally, the cross-platform functionality lets you continue your achievements across various devices, and noteworthy is that this game runs on iOS systems while offering controller compatibility!
13 Brotato
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Brotato
If you’re seeking a game that performs exceptionally well with a controller, Brotato is significantly more enjoyable in this setup compared to regular play! This top-down, arena-style bullet hell game offers an intense experience, as waves upon waves of various enemies assault you relentlessly! With up to six weapons at your disposal, you can engage in fierce alien battles, customizing your traits and builds to extend your survival time.
It’s a game that clearly is designed for controller use!
14 Among Us
Developer: InnerSloth
Publisher: InnerSloth
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Find out more about Among Us
Among Us could have the simplest title for installation and controller pairing across the whole lineup. This game, known as Among Us, is a widely recognized social deduction title created by Innersloth. In this game, you collaborate with other players to unmask the ‘imposter’ among you.
At first, they launched it offering just a single map and local multiplayer. Over time, more features were incorporated. Not long ago, in an update, the creators introduced controller compatibility and simultaneously rolled out the console edition featuring fresh maps and captivating game content.
15 Sky: Children of the Light
Available on: iOS + Android + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Sky: Children of the Light
In this game, Sky: Children of the Light, you’ll journey through enchanting worlds as you accomplish tasks. This popular open-world title debuted in 2013 and has since earned numerous accolades.
- Sky: Children of the Light review
It is about connecting with people and exploring their thoughts and untold stories. On top of this, it allows maximum character customization and team features. Make sure you meet a bunch of friends before exploring an unknown dark realm.
Download Sky: Children of the Light
16 Brawlhalla
Publisher: Blue Mammoth Games
Available on: iOS + Android + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Brawlhalla
Experience an exhilarating mobile battle with Brawlhalla! Just like iconic fighting games such as Mortal Kombat, KOF Allstars, and Street Fighter, this game offers a unique twist on the genre. With its vibrant 2D graphics and playful take on combat, Brawlhalla is an exciting addition to your gaming arsenal. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a handy tier list and provided codes specifically for Brawlhalla enthusiasts.
This game is fantastic, particularly for those who prefer action-packed genres. It’s even got international tournaments and a vibrant eSports community, making it the perfect moment to explore this treasure if competitive gaming is your thing.
17 Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Publisher: Konami
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is one of Konami’s timeless classics. As Alucard, your mission is to delve into Dracula’s Castle, confront creatures hiding in the shadows, and eventually break free from this haunting realm. Essentially, it’s an old-school role-playing game that evokes nostalgia, but its controller compatibility makes it a delightful experience – whether you love the game itself or just appreciate the vintage SEGA/PS feel.
If you’ve never heard of Castlevania yet, then it’s good to know it is also on Netflix – we’ve covered an article on that, as well as several reasons why you should give it a try!
Download Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
18 Oddmar
Publisher: Senri
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Oddmar
Oddmar represents an innovative adventure platformer that significantly elevates storytelling. At first glance, it might seem like a typical narrative-driven Viking adventure game. But upon closer examination and paying attention to each conversation, you’ll uncover a rich backstory that transcends the ordinary.
If you appreciate games with an engaging plot, captivating mechanics, you might find yourself thoroughly enjoying this title. Occasionally, you’ll discover subtle nods to the beloved platformer game, Super Mario, adding a delightful touch to the gaming experience.
19 Terraria
Developer: Codeglue
Publisher: 505 Games
Available on: iOS + Android + Windows Phone + Nintendo 3DS + PlayStation Vita + Steam
Find out more about Terraria
Let’s dive into another beloved title, Terraria, often hailed as the best game by many players across all platforms. Exciting news! You can now enjoy it on your iPad and iPhone, complete with a compatible controller for an enhanced gaming experience.
In essence, this game could be described as an intricate 2D version of Minecraft, offering a multitude of activities such as mining, crafting, battling, and exploring. With its engaging boss fights and endless playtime opportunities, it’s a thrilling adventure that pushes the limits for daring explorers like you. What’s more, the controls are easy to grasp, ensuring a comfortable gaming experience on your iPad.
20 Death Road to Canada
Developer: Madgarden
Publisher: RocketCat Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Death Road to Canada
In essence, are there any additional requirements you might seek? In Death Road to Canada, the experience is clear-cut – your objective is to navigate from the U.S. to Canada, which translates to battling endless waves of flesh-eating zombies in a thrilling, compact game. The charm lies in this post-apocalyptic journey, but beware, as the more you delve into it, the tougher the challenges become.
Yet, it ranks among the greatest indie roguelites ever made, a title worth experiencing. The added controller compatibility simply enhances its enjoyability.
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2024-11-11 16:49