Android can be used as a joystick for games. You can play your favorite races, flight simulators, shooters, using your Android device as a full-fledged wireless joystick, and also as a computer remote control!
Installing the necessary software
We will do everything using the application. PC Remote. A most ingenious application with great capabilities of Chinese origin. So, first you need to download the application and install it on your computer.
We will consider installation and configuration using Wi-Fi - this is the maximum convenient and no wires(you can also connect via USB, but then the main idea - convenience - is lost).
You can download the application itself and the PC client here:
- Install the program on your Android smartphone
- Install the Reciever client program on your PC
- Connect your smartphone and PC to the same router
Launch and setup
Congratulations, the devices are connected and ready to use, now all that remains is to select the joystick mode and start playing. The program offers many control options:
- Android as a steering wheel for racing (with G-sensor support - that is, control by tilting the phone)
- phone like joystick with 2 control sticks and 12 programmable buttons
- android phone like gamepad for shooters(sticker for turning and walking, programmable buttons and screen rotation in an empty field)
- tablet or phone joystick for flight simulators.
Setting up game controls
Launch your favorite game and go to the control settings. Many modern games offer immediate choice of keyboard and mouse or joystick control. In this option, select the joystick and, if there are options, select Monect. After this, you need to customize each joystick button to perform certain actions. This is individual in each game, so we won’t dwell on it.
If the game does not allow for gamepad control, then you can try setting the tilts and buttons for each action in the keyboard settings. There is also additional services, which convert joystick actions to corresponding keyboard buttons.
In this article, we learned that the android can be used as a joystick for games. You can play your favorite racing games, flight simulators, shooters, using your Android phone or tablet as a joystick, steering wheel or gamepad.
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Definitely games for Android devices are mainly aimed at touchscreen, but in fact, sometimes the joystick is irreplaceable. It is especially useful for games ported from other Android platforms, as well as for emulators. The situation with joysticks is the same as with VR; sometimes you can’t do without them.
There are a huge number of different forms and functionality. This list contains 5 joysticks that are market leaders.
Most of the controllers on the list have similar shapes and parameters and are somewhat reminiscent of joysticks from Xbox and PlayStation. Let's get down to business!
MadCatz GameSmart C.T.R.L.
The controller works on both Android and PC. It successfully passed the test on The Shield tablet, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Nexus 6, Nexus 6P and other devices. When working on a PC with Windows OS, some minor issues appear, but they can be resolved without any problems.
In design, the joystick is similar to its counterpart from the Xbox 360. PC and Android users really liked this shape. The controller has a D-pad, 4 face action buttons (A, B, X, Y), start, return button, sync button, 2 shoulder triggers and 2 shoulder bumpers. The device is of very high quality and comfortable to use. It's perfect for VR.
C.T.R.L. also have a unique feature: 3 modes. The first is GameSmart, which is perfect for Android. The second replaces the mouse and works perfectly on both PC and Android, and the third is purely for PC games.
The controller uses AA battery and can work continuously for 40 hours. C.T.R.L. has a reliable mount for a smartphone. The controller has high functionality and brings aesthetic comfort in your hands. With these unique 3 modes, it is perfect for every player.
Steel Series Stratus XL
This best bluetooth controller of all that I have ever tested. Pleasant black design, with orange and gray elements, balanced weight and solid build, that's what awaits you when you get acquainted with the Stratus XL.
In design, it resembles its colleague from the Xbox 360 and at the same time has similarities with the PlayStation. The controller has a D-pad, 4 main buttons (A, B, X, Y), three unique buttons in the center of the face and 2 triggers with 2 shoulder buttons.
Steel Series Stratus XL is compatible with both PC and Android. During the test, the controller performed equally well on both platforms.
The battery charge lasts about 8-9 hours. This is average among AA controllers like Xbox 360 or Xbox One. The device, due to the lack of smartphone mounts, is more designed for PC or tablet users. But this is a small minus for a high-quality device!
Moga Pro Power
The controller came out a couple of years ago, but technically it does not lag behind market competitors. It is cheaper than the previous 2 devices on the list and includes a Li-ion rechargeable battery + smartphone holder.
Pro Power has a D-Pad, 4 buttons, start and select buttons, two triggers and two shoulder buttons. Once again, the design is reminiscent of the Xbox 360/One, and the color scheme includes a base black and orange accent color.
The model operates on Bluetooth and is perfect for Android, it weighs moderately and leaves a good feeling in your hands when playing. It's not as easy on the eyes as the Stratus XL, but it comes very close to that mark.
The device supports microUSB charging and can even charge a smartphone from its battery.
It's worth noting that the controller doesn't feel comfortable in a PC environment, so it's probably more of a choice for Android users.
Razer Serval
Razer Serval works on Android, Windows and Mac computers. Again, similar design to Xbox and has 4 buttons, 2 shoulder and 2 triggers, a button for Android use and 3 unique buttons in the center (these won't work for all games). Among other Bluetooth controllers, in my opinion, this one is the most uncomfortable in terms of tactile sensation. To be honest, the design has not been fully thought out.
Battery life is about the same as other AA models. The controller will appeal to fans Android games, thanks to its highly targeted functionality.
Sminiker gamepad
Yes, few people know such a brand as Sminiker. This Chinese company, copying the design from the PlayStation, but don’t discount this device. When creating this list, I wanted to choose a reliable a budget option, with the necessary functionality. In this category, Sminiker is clearly the leader. Of course, there are cheaper devices, but this one costs only $20 (that's half the price of its analogues).
The design, as I said, is very similar to the PlayStation, has 4 main buttons, D-pad, start/select, 2+4 shoulder buttons. There is also a mount for a smartphone (up to 6 inches). This is definitely a very light version of a high-quality controller. This can be seen literally in everything. The material is quite low quality and the plastic is not trustworthy.
Definitely, Sminiker is not the best Bluetooth game controller, but it copes well with its tasks and works with VR, smartphones and tablets. The battery is lithium-ion and holds a charge for 3-4 hours.
If you are looking for a budget option, this controller is perfect. All its shortcomings immediately fade into the background, with a price tag of $20.
So the list of TOP 5 game controllers for Android has come to an end. What do you think about these devices? Leave your comments, let's discuss this matter!
There are two types of people: some play video games on their devices openly, others play them on the sly. The joke is old - but the essence remains the same. Everyone plays. And everyone has probably encountered the inconvenience of touchscreen controls. No matter how sophisticated the developers are, calling for help from position sensors or optimizing the placement of buttons on the screen, the result is the same. You play as if you were wearing cotton gloves.
This is where our old friend, the gamepad, comes to the rescue. This controller, which burst into our world with the first Dandy and Segami, is truly a veteran of the gaming industry. Generations of consoles and gaming fashions have changed. Gamers switched to PCs and returned to new generations of consoles. But the indestructible gamepad remained the king of controllers. And now it has come to mobile systems.
Today, we will present to you short review five gamepads designed specifically for mobile devices. These nice guys will help you achieve new records in your favorite games. Or just get even more pleasure from the gameplay.
All of the listed gamepads work on Android OS, but not all games are compatible with them. Therefore, it would be a good idea to make sure of this before placing your order.
However, we started talking. So, make yourself comfortable. We begin.
1. Razer Several
Approximate price: 7000 - 7500 rubles
Compatibility: Android, PC support expected
I think this manufacturer needs no introduction. A king among kings. The ergonomic design of the xBox 360 controller is recognized as one of the best on the market. Full set of buttons. Two analog sticks. Bluetooth connection to your device and holder for your smartphone. 40 hours battery life. What more could a simple gamer want?
This masterpiece has only one flaw - the price. This is the most expensive gamepad presented. But it will be worth every penny invested.
2. Steelseries Stratus XL
Approximate price: 5200 - 5500 rubles
Compatibility: Android, iOS, PC, MAC
If Razer is the king, then Steelseries is at least the duke. This company is known for making comfortable keyboards and excellent gaming controllers. And her Stratus XL is a great addition to any gamer's smartphone. It has a classic button layout with analog sticks at the bottom and compares favorably to its competitor with its low price. Its main disadvantages are the lack of smartphone mounts and proprietary Razer ergonomics. However, it is still capable of giving you the same 40 hours of gaming pleasure, with just one pair of AA batteries.
3. Mad Catz LYNX 3
Approximate price: 6000 - 6500 rubles
Compatibility: Android and PC
The Mad Catz company, known for its gaming controllers for PCs, also looked at mobile market, with its original transformable gamepad. It doesn't boast the sleek lines of its competitors. But he doesn’t need this - he has his own merits. Namely, compactness. After you finish playing, simply fold this miracle of technology into a small brick and hide it in your jacket or backpack pocket. At the same time, Rysenok is equipped with a mount for a smartphone and provides up to 30 hours of play on one battery change.
Unfortunately, all good things come at a price. And this Cybertronian fugitive costs almost as much as Razer.
4. PhoneJoy Gamepad 2
Approximate price: 7000 - 7500 rubles
Compatibility: Android and iOS
Another representative of the transformers family. But if the Little Lynx from Mad Catz could only fold for greater compactness, PhoneJoy Gamepad 2 can also expand. Thanks to this, it can accommodate even large phablets, such as Galaxy Note 5 or iPhone 6s Plus. And when the game is over, it folds up and disappears into your pocket.
However, this is not without its drawbacks. Besides the Razer price, this flip phone only provides 14 hours of gaming. Not enough.
5. Fantac 8BITDO
Approximate price: 3500 - 4000
Compatibility: Android, iOS, PC, MAC
Welcome to the past. If the sight of this gamepad makes you feel nostalgic, you've come to the right place. The 8BitDo Controller gamepad cannot boast of an ergonomic design or a transformable case, but it doesn’t need it. After all, his the target audience- these are those who, 20 years ago, discovered the world of video games using the same gamepads. And now you have a chance to return to your childhood. Moreover, at a very reasonable price.
According to statistics for 2016, the largest share of profits in the gaming industry came from mobile devices- tablets and smartphones. Then there are desktop computers, consoles, and so on. Based on this, we decided to write several articles about how you can play mobile phone or a tablet with comfort and an advantage over other players, what is needed for this, and so on. Today is an article about gamepads for Android devices. I will talk about the use case with a smartphone, but, in general, on a tablet the game process is the same, only you still need to secure the tablet somehow (with a stand, a case or on your lap). The main selection criteria are the quality of materials and workmanship, ease of play, charging process, ease of pairing devices and cost. And, it’s worth saying, when buying a gamepad for a smartphone, always try to look at more or less famous brands, since they will support their software and other things longer, and noname companies may disappear a couple of months after the sale of the gamepad and no one will update your software. We have selected five options from all the abundance that is on the Internet, and today we will tell you about these options as clearly and accessiblely as possible.
Xiaomi Mi Game Controller Bluetooth
We really liked this gaming gamepad because of its design, acceptable build quality and cost. Let's start with the fact that the gadget is completely black, made of matte plastic, which means it will practically not get dirty or scratched, and practicality in transportation will definitely be considered an advantage. Next, the gamepad connects very quickly to Android devices- press the center key, then confirm the action on your smartphone or tablet and that’s it, you can play. Of course, you should select games that support the gamepad, otherwise nothing will work. You can connect the gamepad to Windows devices- tablets, laptops and even desktop computer, if there is a Bluetooth module. True, you will need to download an emulator on your PC, but this is a matter of two minutes and then everything will play perfectly. The gamepad runs on two AA batteries, the operating time is quite decent, the range is up to ten meters. By the way, if you have a jailbreak, you can connect it to iOS devices. At a cost of only 1,330 rubles, this is a very cool solution that you can buy for your smartphone, and then play on your computer with a lot of fun.
MOGA Pro Power Controller
We primarily liked the MOGA Pro Power Controller gamepad because it has its own battery. Charging a gamepad is easier and more convenient than buying batteries constantly or charging them in a special charger. In addition, MOGA has always been pleased with the fairly high build quality of the case and high-quality materials - the plastic fits nicely in the hand, the shape of the case itself is quite comfortable. In addition, there is a clip on the case where you can insert your smartphone and play with it without holding it in your hands or on a table. The layout of the keys and sticks is like on a Microsoft controller, the movement of the sticks is quite soft, pleasant, nothing creaks or breaks. The gamepad connects to Android smartphones and tablets quite quickly, there have never been any problems with this, the product is immediately recognized in games. In addition, there are just a ton of guides and tips on setting up for each game on the Internet, there are emulators for working with a computer and a lot of interesting things. The only thing we didn’t like was the cost - from 3999 to 5600 rubles, depending on the region and stores. This is quite expensive for a mobile gamepad, although, of course, the quality and functions correspond to the price.
Sony Dualshock 4
Now many will start writing angry comments about this gamepad, but first, let’s read this paragraph to the end. The fact is that the Sony Dualshock 4 gamepad itself is simply gorgeous and its only drawback is the sticks, which can wear out over time. But, if we take gadgets from new batches, then this problem has been solved. There’s no need to talk about the quality, build and features of the gamepad - this is the best solution on the market (the only competitor is the Microsoft Xbox One gamepad), so let’s talk about the connection. You need on your smartphone Root rights, they are obtained in half an hour, even if you are a beginner, after which you install the application from the market and that’s it, you can play absolutely all games that the gamepad supports, with help Sony Dualshock 4. It holds the battery for a long time, looks cool and this adds a certain uniqueness to you - it’s quite rare to see players on a mobile phone with a Sony Dualshock 4 in their hands. The only downside is that there is not and will not be a stand for a smartphone, and headphones will not work through the Sony Dualshock 4, only through a smartphone. The cost is 3490 for the standard version, there are also customized ones.
Mad Catz C.T.R.L. R Mobile Gamepad
We've always liked Mad Catz products because High Quality and an emphasis on convenience. This company does not look at competitors and makes its own product, which is why the convenience is on a completely different level. Large palm rests, the sticks are positioned correctly, they don’t wobble or creak, the rubber doesn’t wear off after prolonged use, and the keys don’t shake or rattle. There are keys on the case for controlling music tracks or videos, and on the bottom of the case there is a mode switch. It is worth noting that the gamepad supports the DirectInput / XInput API, so you can connect it to Android smartphones and tablets and to a Windows computer. The product is powered by two AAA batteries, which gives you 40 hours of active gaming time, which is simply amazing - you can buy a pack of these batteries and not worry about the battery charge at all for half a year. The gamepad simply has no downsides; it is ideal for mobile games Suitable for computer too. The cost is 3990 rubles, which we consider quite justified. The gadget will serve you for many years, giving you pleasure from games and other entertainment.
SteelSeries Stratus XL
Despite the fact that on the Internet the name Android is attributed to the SteelSeries Stratus XL, this gamepad is truly universal. It connects to Android devices, quite quickly, no problems arise. Next, you can connect it to a PC and play various types of gaming products; a modern connection protocol is supported. And, most incredibly, the gamepad connects to iOS device no jailbreak! That is, you buy such a product and you can play on everything except consoles. It’s very convenient if you have several platforms at home and want to play on all of them with pleasure. The arrangement of the sticks on the body is reminiscent of the Dualshock, that is, the sticks are on the same line. D-pad on top left, keys on top right. There are triggers and hammers for firing and other functions, they are made of silver material and look very attractive. Appearance We also liked the product, but it will not be so comfortable to play on a certain type of palm - the fingers cannot reach the keys. The cost of the gadget is 4990 rubles and, as for me, this is one of best solutions, although quite expensive. If you don't have iOS along with Android, there's no point in taking it.