My partner is interested in learning some of the games I play, so I’m trying to find some introductory games to get her used to the common control schemes.
Off the top of my head, it’d probably have to be games that…
- Have few inputs beyond the basics
- Are not difficult or punishing
- Are approachable mechanically (So as not to overwhelm them when they’re focus on learning basic controls)
- 2D is probably preferable, since its easier to understand and process whats happening at a glance.
- Multiplayer would probably also be a strong bonus, but also not required
The only game that particularly comes to mind is Portal, but hopefully others will have some better ideas.
minecraft
I used to always use Minecraft for this. Sure, they can’t do everything immediately, but I put the game on peaceful and let them explore at their own pace.
I say “used to” because Luanti (formerly MineTest, an open source Minecraft Clone*) is finished and free.
(Okay, Luanti is a lot more than a Minecraft clone. But for this discussion that’s all one needs to know.)
Specifically Portal 2 actually. Since it was designed with console players in mind, all of the puzzles can be solved without having to shoot on the move.
Also it has co-op, so OP can play their partner, which might help when questions arise :D
Some particular reasons why I’d recommend Minecraft for this:
- it’s very easy to get started, but there’s a lot of depth if you get into it
- its pretty slow-paced
- its a multiplayer game where someone of a much higher skill level and someone of a much lower skill level can play together without the noob player feeling that they are holding the advanced player back
- if you set the difficulty to peaceful it’s hard to die, and it’s impossible to fully “lose”. You can also turn on keepinventory.
- it’s a very open-ended game where you can come up with your own goals, which makes it something that everybody can find fun in their own way
- if they do get into it, it’s a good segue into a wide variety of other games. Just figure out what part of Minecraft they enjoy. You can also extend Minecraft by playing with mods.
Son wanted to play Minecraft, here’s your mouse and keyboard
Slime Rancher would probably be a good introduction to fps controls.
Great suggestion. Great game. Very chill.
It is a great game but shame there is no multiplayer.
DOOM (1996)
Doom 2 is 1994, Doom 64 is 1997…
DOOM (1969)
I taught my wife to use WASD+mouse on Final Fantasy XV. Nice and beginner-friendly in the beginning.
My wife is really into the sims and oddly enough 'House Flipper was a really goof intro to wasd co trols in something she was interested in. She can play most anything these days.
Firewatch
Is she familiar with Animal Crossing? If so check out Dinkum. Other suggestions: Terraria, Core Keeper, Minecraft, and there is always classic FPS games lol. I learned WSAD in Quake
I’d consider what kind of game she finds fun and compelling–that’s more likely to engage her to become familiar with the mouse/keyboard combo.
That being said, Minecraft on peaceful mode would fit and is generally approachable. Stardew Valley is pretty relaxed as well, though I don’t remember whether it uses WASD specifically.
Oh! And if she’s into puzzles, look at Islands of Insight. First person with puzzle solving as the main mechanic, but also some exploration and a bit of mystery to it.
2D: Survivors/Bullet Heaven type games. Most are WASD to move, mouse to aim (if at all).
3D: Vampire Hunters. Since it auto shoots the focus is on movement: strafing, aiming, and avoiding getting hit by mobs. Dying early is expected, so no pressure on getting a perfect run.
My SO went from learning the controller with Fall Guys to Minecraft WASD. I think Fall Guys is was close to perfect, low amount of inputs, high amount of engagement.
Pineapple on Pizza is a short one shot game, it’s cutesy with a twisted ending. Uses WASD and Mouse
