You've seen the gyro aiming option in your favorite video games settings and you're wondering if it's the secret of the best controller players? The answer is yes. This technology, far from being a gimmick, is a revolution that offers precision close to that of a mouse. Ready to never blame your stick for a missed shot again?
What is gyro aiming? The secret to precise shots on a controller
Gyro aiming (or gyro aiming) uses the motion sensors integrated into your controller to translate physical rotations of your hands into camera movements in the game. In short: you slightly tilt your controller, and your reticle moves with millimeter precision. This is the very definition of gyro controls.
This method doesn't replace the right analog stick; it complements it. The best approach is as follows:
- Right analog stick: for large, quick movements (turning around, aiming 180°).
- Gyro aiming: for micro-adjustments, target tracking, and recoil correction.
A brief history of gyro controls: from Wii to PS5
While gyro aiming seems new to many, its roots go back to the Nintendo Wii era. However, it was with the Nintendo Switch and flagship titles like Splatoon 3 or The Legend of Zelda that its potential for precision was truly standardized. Nintendo proved that it was possible to offer a viable and sometimes superior alternative to the traditional right stick.
The current state in 2025: who dominates gyro aiming?
Nintendo Switch: the precursor and the reference
The Nintendo Switch is the reigning platform for gyro controls. The Pro Controller and Joy-Cons integrate excellent motion sensors. Games like Splatoon 3 have built their entire gameplay around this mechanic, making it almost indispensable for high-level play.
PlayStation (PS4/PS5): increasing adoption
Sony has integrated gyroscopes since the PlayStation 4 with the DualShock 4 controller. However, the feature was long underutilized. It is with the PlayStation 5 and its DualSense controller that developers have begun to massively adopt it in shooting games, partly due to demand from PC players accustomed to this feature.
PC and Steam Deck: absolute freedom
On PC, freedom is total. Thanks to tools like Steam Input, it's possible to configure gyro aiming on almost any compatible controller (DualSense, Pro Controller, etc.) and for any game, even if it doesn't natively support it.
Xbox controllers: the big absentees
This is the major drawback: to date, official Xbox controllers do not include a gyroscope. Players on this platform are therefore unfortunately deprived of this feature, unless they use complex third-party adapters.
How to configure your gyro controls for victory
To master gyro aiming, you need to dive into the game options. Fortnite is an excellent example, having collaborated with expert Julian Smart (aka Jibb) to create very advanced settings.
Activate aiming: go to the game options
In general, you will find the settings in a dedicated menu, such as Fortnite's "Touch and Motion" section. The first step is to activate gyro aiming.
Key settings: active mode, sensitivity, and more
Among the different game modes for the gyroscope, the "Active Mode" is crucial. It defines when the gyro is on: "Always," "When aiming," "When aiming or modifying," etc. "When aiming" is the most recommended to start. Then adjust the sensitivity until you find your balance.
The "Flick Stick": the ideal partner for gyro
The Flick Stick is a major innovation popularized by Julian Smart. The concept: the right stick is no longer used for aiming, but for a quick stick movement to instantly turn the camera in a direction (e.g., a flick of the stick to the right turns you 90°). This technique assigns rapid rotations to the stick and fine aiming 100% to the gyroscope. It's the ultimate combination for speed and precision.
Hardware makes the difference: why choose a pro controller?
Mastering gyro controls, especially with advanced techniques like the Flick Stick, requires impeccable hardware. This is where the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro stands out for PC gamers.
It is designed for performance and offers perfect synergy with gyro aiming:
- Hall Effect Joysticks: magnetic technology eliminates any risk of stick drift. This guarantees that your reticle will only move when you decide, providing a stable base essential for precise gyro aiming.
- High-precision motion sensors: faithful and low-latency transcription of your movements, essential for intuitive and responsive aiming.
- Extensive customization: its software allows fine adjustments to configure the gyroscope and sticks to create a profile perfectly adapted to techniques like the Flick Stick.
FAQ: gyro aiming
What is the difference between gyro aiming and accelerometer?
The gyroscope measures rotation (the angle and speed at which you turn your controller), which is ideal for precise aiming. The accelerometer measures displacement movement (from point A to point B). Modern controllers combine both motion sensors for complete detection, but it is the gyroscope that is at the heart of gyro controls.
Is gyro aiming considered cheating?
Absolutely not. It is a feature integrated by video game developers and supported by manufacturers. Many console esports tournaments allow it. It is an alternative control method, just like keyboard/mouse or a classic controller.
What is the Flick Stick?
The Flick Stick is a control technique where the right stick is used to make fast and instantaneous camera rotations (a quick stick movement to the right will turn the view 90° to the right). It is the ideal partner for gyro aiming: the Flick Stick handles large angles, the gyroscope handles fine aiming.
Are all Nacon controllers equipped with gyro aiming?
Motion aiming functionality is a characteristic of next-generation controllers. At Nacon, the Revolution 5 Pro is specifically designed for demanding players and integrates high-precision motion sensors for an optimal gyroscopic experience on PC, in addition to its other cutting-edge technologies.
Conclusion: more than an option, a gameplay revolution
Gyro aiming is no longer a curiosity but a performance standard. It bridges the precision gap that existed with the mouse. To get the most out of it, it is essential to equip yourself with suitable hardware, such as the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro, which not only integrates this technology but also accompanies it with synergistic features like Hall effect joysticks, giving you all the tools for victory.
