Why Use a Controller?

If you play for any length of time you know that ATS/ETS2 requires so many inputs and very fine control that it seems a wheel and pedal setup is really the only option for those looking to really play the game the way it was meant to be played.

I had a w&p setup for the longest time and it was fantastic. Don't get me wrong, it's probably, hands-down one of the best ways to drive. But my problem was the setup and teardown each day since I work from home. I couldn't have a huge w&p setup in front of my camera when I was on a web conference. I decided to move back to a controller. Specifically, I moved to my PS4 Dualshock controller and retired my W&P. Here's how I did it:

1. PS4 contollers can be paired to any bluetooth enabled PC. If your pc doesn't have bluetooth, you can purchase an inexpensive adapter for as little as $10.00 CAD. Press the SHARE button and PS4 button simulatanously when your controller is Powered OFF and when it starts blinking, pair it to your windows PC.
2. Use Stick Extenders. Stick extenders attach to your control sticks and enlarge the arc of travel so that larger movements translate to smaller steering corrections. These are pretty cheap too. I think I got mine on Amazon for about $10.00 for 3 sets of 2.
3. Get a back button paddle attachment. These attach to your controller to remap controls such as the L1 and R1 placing two paddles positioned beneath the controller so you can shift without removing your thumbs from the control sticks. Options for the DS4 currently are the USB cabled version FPS Strickpack Dominator $49.99 and Playstation has an official one that is wireless for $29.99
4. Use remapper software such as ReWASD to essentially remap any button you like on your controller. I have my paddle buttons from my PS4 back button attachedment set to shift so if I click the left paddle I get another set of controls. Clicking the right paddle gives me a whole different set. With theses mapped to shift buttons, I have access to well over 50 possible button mappings with a single controller.

When I play ATS now, the only reason I have to remove my hand from the controller is to move the mouse and click something in the map. Otherwise, I can lean back, relax, and enjoy the same precision and control as a W&P without all the activity required to operated a W&P.

if you see me around, feel free to ask about my set-up. I love sharing!

Safe Travels!