July 21, 2023 by Jeremy Englert
SKIP TO PLAYSTATION CONTROLLERS
SKIP TO NINTENDO SWITCH CONTROLLERS
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MLB The Show isn’t just a game for the hardcore fans – it’s a deep dive into the intricate world of baseball. Precision and control are vital, and they start with your controller. It’s your digital glove, bat, and the key to your strategy. This guide will reveal the top controllers for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch that could be game-changers for your MLB The Show performance.
Selecting a good controller is even more important for Xbox users as the default Xbox controller has been plagued with issues when using pinpoint pitching since 2022. Additionally, Xbox users can benefit from using a wired controller to reduce input time – so all of the options included for Xbox users will be wired controllers.
Luckily for you, there are multiple great options to select from when it comes to a great Xbox controller for MLB The Show.
Don’t let the low price fool you. The PowerA Enhanced is an officially licensed Xbox controller that brings a lot to the plate.
The PowerA Enhanced is a wired controller that also features two mappable buttons on the back, textured grips and comes in a variety of colors. The layout is similar to the standard Xbox controller, but with improvements in ergonomics.
Why we like it: While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some of the other options, you’d be hard pressed to find a better wired controller at the price point.
The successor to the popular FUSION Pro 2, the FUSION Pro 3 improves on its predecessor by including 4 programmable back buttons (opposed to the detachable paddle system found on the FUSION Pro 2) and other features such as:
Why we like it: The FUSION Pro 3 brings a lot to the plate while staying at a moderate price point. The swappable thumbsticks also mean you won’t need to invest into a set of Kontrol Freeks.
The grand-daddy of Xbox controllers – the features of the Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO controller are enough to get any gamers juices flowing. This controller is fully modular – meaning you can swap out the stick-modules, triggers, stick caps, grips and even the D-Pad module. Best of all, the controllers includes many of these interchangeable parts right in the box – so you’ll be able to start customizing your controller on day 1.
In addition to being fully modular, the Thrustmaster eSwap X PRO also includes:
Why we like it: Being fully modular allows you to really configure this controller to your needs. It’s a great option if you want to jump between games that involve unique controller setups.
The Razer Wolverine V2 is an excellent option for Xbox players seeking to elevate their gaming experience. This controller has been engineered for competitive gaming and offers customizable features that set it apart from the pack. It is perfect for MLB The Show fans due to its precise control mechanisms and comfortable design.
The Razer Wolverine V2 offers:
Why we like it: The Razer Wolverine V2 combines a high degree of customization with a comfortable, ergonomic design. This combination, along with its competitively priced entry point, makes it a strong choice for any MLB The Show player looking to enhance their gaming experience.
While Xbox users will see benefits from using a wired-controller, the same can’t be said for PlayStation. For the most part, PlayStation gamers are best off using an official Sony controller – luckily, Sony recently released a new controller packed full of features.
The DualSense Edge is like the standard PS5 DualSense controller – but on steroids. One of its highlighting features is the ability to swap out stick modules – meaning you can easily swap in a fresh stick module and have the “new controller feel” again.
But that’s not all – the DualSense Edge comes packed full of features that can be helpful when playing MLB The Show. Such as:
Why we like it: The DualSense is already a great controller, and the Edge improves upon it with a great set of features that should help any MLB The Show gamer.
For Nintendo Switch players, the standard Joy-Cons might not provide the level of precision and comfort you desire for MLB The Show. Therefore, we’ll look at an alternative controller that could enhance your baseball gaming experience on the Switch.
PowerA is known for making high-quality, affordable alternatives to official console controllers, and their Nintendo Switch controller is no exception. This controller is a great option for those looking for a cheaper alternative to the Pro Controller.
The PowerA Controller for Nintendo Switch provides:
Why we like it: The PowerA Controller offers a similar feel to the Pro Controller at a reduced cost. The additional mappable buttons provide a level of customization not present in many other controllers at this price point.
Jeremy is a partner and developer at ShowZone. He also does random stuff, like writing the article you just read.