The PlayStation 5 (PS5) DualSense controller is a game-changer in the world of console gaming. With its advanced haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and built-in microphone, the DualSense offers an unprecedented level of immersion. These features allow players to feel the game in ways that were previously impossible, making the experience more tactile, responsive, and engaging. While many games offer basic support for the DualSense, some titles go above and beyond, fully harnessing its potential to elevate gameplay. In this article, we’ll explore the five best games that fully utilize the PS5 DualSense controller features.
1. Astro’s Playroom

Overview
“Astro’s Playroom” is more than just a game; it’s a showcase designed to highlight the capabilities of the PS5 and its DualSense controller. Pre-installed on every PS5, this delightful platformer takes players on a nostalgic journey through the history of PlayStation while demonstrating the DualSense’s features in a fun and interactive way.
How It Utilizes the DualSense Features
- Haptic Feedback: The game’s haptic feedback is incredibly detailed, allowing players to feel the texture of surfaces as Astro walks across them. Whether you’re skating on ice, trudging through sand, or walking on metal, each surface feels distinct in your hands.
- Adaptive Triggers: The adaptive triggers come into play when using various gadgets in the game. For example, when Astro uses a bow, you can feel the tension as you draw the string back, providing a realistic sense of resistance.
- Microphone Interaction: The built-in microphone is also used creatively, with players needing to blow into it to activate certain in-game mechanisms, adding another layer of interactivity.
Why It’s a Must-Play
“Astro’s Playroom” is a must-play for anyone who wants to experience the full potential of the DualSense controller. It’s not just a tech demo; it’s a well-crafted game that’s both charming and innovative, making it the perfect introduction to the PS5’s capabilities.
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2. Returnal

Overview
“Returnal” is a roguelike third-person shooter that combines fast-paced action with psychological horror elements. The game is known for its challenging gameplay, atmospheric world, and innovative use of the DualSense controller, which enhances the overall experience.
How It Utilizes the DualSense Features
- Haptic Feedback: “Returnal” uses haptic feedback to immerse players in its alien world. You’ll feel the pitter-patter of raindrops, the rumble of distant thunder, and the impact of enemy attacks with stunning precision.
- Adaptive Triggers: The adaptive triggers play a crucial role in gameplay, particularly in weapon handling. The triggers have two levels of resistance: a half-pull activates your primary fire mode, while a full pull activates the weapon’s secondary mode. This system allows for more complex and dynamic combat.
- Audio Feedback: The game also takes advantage of the controller’s built-in speaker, emitting subtle audio cues that add to the tension and atmosphere of the game.
Why It’s a Must-Play
“Returnal” is a game that demands precision and quick reflexes, and the DualSense controller’s features make the experience more intuitive and immersive. The combination of haptic feedback and adaptive triggers allows players to feel deeply connected to the game, making every moment more intense and engaging.
Also Read- How To Control Your PS5 With Voice Commands Using The DualSense Controller
3. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Overview
“Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart” is a visually stunning action-adventure game that showcases the power of the PS5. This game leverages the DualSense controller to enhance the gameplay experience, making it one of the best examples of how new technology can transform gaming.
How It Utilizes the DualSense Features
- Haptic Feedback: The haptic feedback in “Rift Apart” is used to great effect, especially during combat. Each weapon feels unique, with distinct vibrations that correspond to their effects. For example, the ricochet weapon sends vibrations that mimic the sensation of bullets bouncing off surfaces.
- Adaptive Triggers: The adaptive triggers provide different levels of resistance depending on the weapon you’re using. For example, lightly pressing the trigger might fire a single shot, while fully pressing it could unleash a more powerful attack. This feature adds depth to the combat, encouraging players to experiment with different weapons and firing modes.
- Environmental Feedback: As you traverse through different dimensions, the controller’s feedback changes to match the environment. Whether you’re walking on metal surfaces or gliding through the air, the DualSense enhances the sensation of movement and interaction.
Why It’s a Must-Play
“Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart” is a visual and sensory delight. The game’s creative use of the DualSense controller not only makes combat more satisfying but also brings the vibrant worlds to life. It’s a must-play for anyone looking to experience the PS5’s next-gen capabilities.
Also Read- How To Integrate The PS5 DualSense Controller With Your Smart Home Setup
4. Demon’s Souls

Overview
The remake of “Demon’s Souls” brings the beloved classic to the PS5, with stunning graphics and gameplay enhancements that make it one of the best titles on the platform. The game’s challenging combat and dark atmosphere are amplified by the DualSense controller’s innovative features.
How It Utilizes the DualSense Features
- Haptic Feedback: In “Demon’s Souls,” haptic feedback is used to convey the weight and impact of every action. Whether you’re swinging a sword, blocking an attack, or casting a spell, you’ll feel the force behind each movement. This tactile feedback adds to the game’s immersive and challenging experience.
- Adaptive Triggers: The adaptive triggers are particularly effective in combat, providing resistance when blocking or using heavy weapons. This feature makes every encounter feel more intense, as the physicality of the game is mirrored in the resistance of the triggers.
- Environmental Immersion: The controller’s feedback is also used to enhance the game’s atmosphere. The vibrations and subtle audio cues from the controller immerse players in the dark and foreboding world of Boletaria, making every step feel perilous.
Why It’s a Must-Play
“Demon’s Souls” is a game that tests your skills and patience, and the DualSense controller adds another layer of immersion to this already intense experience. The combination of haptic feedback and adaptive triggers makes every victory hard-fought and deeply satisfying.
Also Read- How to Properly Clean and Maintain Your PS5 DualSense Controller
5. Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Overview
“Spider-Man: Miles Morales” is an action-packed adventure that lets players swing through New York City as the titular superhero. The game builds on the success of its predecessor while introducing new mechanics and fully utilizing the DualSense controller to enhance the experience.
How It Utilizes the DualSense Features
- Haptic Feedback: The haptic feedback in “Miles Morales” makes swinging through the city feel more immersive than ever. You can feel the tension of the web as it shoots out, and the subtle vibrations mimic the sensation of air rushing past you as you soar between skyscrapers.
- Adaptive Triggers: The adaptive triggers add depth to combat, providing resistance when using Miles’ Venom powers. The triggers’ resistance varies depending on the intensity of the move, making each attack feel powerful and impactful.
- Environmental Sensations: The controller’s feedback also enhances the sensation of Miles’ interactions with the environment, from walking on different surfaces to engaging in high-speed chases. These details make the world feel more alive and responsive to your actions.
Why It’s a Must-Play
“Spider-Man: Miles Morales” is a thrilling superhero adventure that fully harnesses the power of the PS5 and its DualSense controller. The game’s use of haptic feedback and adaptive triggers enhances the already exhilarating experience of being Spider-Man, making it a must-play for fans of the character and action games alike.
Conclusion
The PS5 DualSense controller is more than just a gamepad; it’s a gateway to new levels of immersion and interactivity. These five games—”Astro’s Playroom,” “Returnal,” “Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart,” “Demon’s Souls,” and “Spider-Man: Miles Morales”—exemplify how developers are harnessing the controller’s features to create more engaging and tactile gaming experiences. Whether you’re feeling the tension in “Returnal” or the weight of a sword in “Demon’s Souls,” these games demonstrate that the DualSense is truly a game-changer. If you own a PS5, these titles are essential for experiencing the future of gaming.