How to use a game controller
A game controller has two sticks you move with your thumbs, a group of four buttons on the right, and a cross of arrow buttons on the left. Most games use the left stick to move and the right stick to look around. You learn the rest as you go, and nobody expects you to know it all at once.
The parts of a controller
- Sticks. Two small round knobs. You push them in any direction. A gentle push moves a little. A firm push moves more.
- Face buttons. Four buttons on the right, in a diamond shape. These are your main action buttons, such as jump or talk.
- Directional pad (D-pad). A cross-shaped button on the left. It moves a cursor or picks a menu item in steps.
- Shoulder buttons. Buttons on the top edge, where your index fingers rest.
- Triggers. Larger buttons just below the shoulder buttons. They press in further the harder you squeeze.
- Menu buttons. Small buttons in the middle. They open the pause menu or the home screen.
Buttons have different names on each console. Nintendo, PlayStation and Xbox controllers use different symbols. The game’s screen tells you which button to press, using the symbol on your controller.
How to hold it
Hold the controller with both hands. Rest your thumbs on the two sticks. Rest your index fingers on the shoulder buttons. Keep your grip loose. Many new players squeeze too hard, which tires the hands. Rest your elbows on a chair arm or cushion if that is more comfortable.
A simple first session
- Start with a game that has a gentle first level. Look at the beginner ratings for controls scores.
- Play for 15 to 20 minutes, then stop.
- Spend the first few minutes only moving around. Do nothing else. Get used to how far to push the stick.
- Add one new button at a time.
- Pause when you need a break. Most games let you pause at any time.
Common first-time problems
- The character keeps walking into walls. This is normal. Push the stick less far for slower movement.
- I forget which button does what. Look in the pause menu for a controls page. Most games have one.
- My thumbs hurt. Take a break, loosen your grip, and try shorter sessions.
- The picture spins when I move the right stick. That is camera control. Read Camera control explained.
Motion controls
Some Nintendo games use movement, such as swinging the controller like a tennis racket. This can be easier than buttons for some people. Nintendo Switch Sports is a good example.
Other ways to play
You can change what buttons do. Most consoles have a Settings > Accessibility area where you can remap buttons, which means swapping what each button does. Some makers also sell special controllers for players who find a standard one hard to use. See How to make games easier.
Is it hard to learn?
It takes practice, like learning to type or drive. Most adults find the basics feel natural after a few short sessions. Games rated 1 or 2 for controls in our ratings use only a few buttons.
Next steps
- Read Camera control explained
- Find a game with simple controls: Game finder