Making the Switch: Tips for Playing FPS Games on Steam Deck from Mouse and Keyboard

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I’ve been loving my Steam Deck for almost two years, enjoying a ton of games thanks to its varied library. While I’m a fan of the trackpads and Steam Input that help play different genres, I’ve been struggling with first-person shooters. I’ve played FPS games exclusively with a mouse and keyboard since the ’90s, and using a controller with thumbsticks drives me crazy because my accuracy and reaction time plummet. Trackpad support hasn’t worked much better for me, especially with older titles that don’t respond well to mixed inputs. Gyro control has potential, but that also needs careful setup. My main question is for those who transitioned from using a mouse and keyboard to the Steam Deck for FPS games: what strategies worked for you? What input settings do you use? Any tips on adapting to this new setup? How long did it take you to feel comfortable?

Making the Switch: Tips for Playing FPS Games on Steam Deck from Mouse and Keyboard
Windosill: Steam Deck Edition

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1 Answer

ControllerWizard123 -

Giving gyro controls a shot has worked wonders for me! I tweak the sensitivity to get it just right. My favorite setup is using gyro to assist aim when I’m not touching the right thumbstick. It feels natural and lets me make those fine adjustments while keeping a hold on the thumbstick for primary aiming. Honestly, it took some practice, but once I got that combination down, it really helped bridge the gap between my old mouse-and-keyboard habits and controller play. I’d suggest starting there!

AimAssistMaster -

So you set gyro only to engage when you lift off the stick? What’s your setup exactly—gyros as joystick or mouse?

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