RoadCraft: Gamepad, wheel or keyboard-mouse — which one should you choose?
Are you a fan of heavy vehicle driving? Then you’ve probably heard of RoadCraft, the new game developed by Saber Interactive — the studio behind major titles and best known for SnowRunner, the critically acclaimed off-road driving simulator.
This new title delivers large-scale, heavy-duty driving simulation with gameplay powered by hyper-realistic physics! It brings a breath of fresh air to the world of trucking and construction/destruction simulation.
RoadCraft strives for realism with a gameplay experience filled with dynamic events (natural disasters, rough roads, debris, complex cargo, and more). Your mission will be to intervene on disaster sites, clear rubble, restart shut-down factories, and restore critical infrastructure. To achieve this, you’ll have access to a wide range of powerful machines adapted to every type of job
As an extreme simulation game, physics is at the core of the gameplay: every pothole, every ton of debris moved, and every terrain bump becomes a real challenge to overcome.
So, to tame these metal beasts, what’s the best peripheral to use? Gamepad, racing wheel or keyboard-mouse — which is the best choice?
Playing RoadCraft with a keyboard and mouse
While keyboard and mouse are the standard for PC gamers, keep in mind that RoadCraft is also available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series. So this section will only apply to PC players.
Nowadays, keyboard and mouse are often praised as the ultimate control method for all games. But in reality, it depends on the genre. Sure, this setup offers precise menu navigation and responsive handling of vehicle tools and accessories. However, when it comes to cornering or fine-tuning acceleration and braking — things get tricky. Especially in a game like RoadCraft, where these aspects are deeply integrated into the gameplay.
Advantages of using a keyboard and mouse in RoadCraft:
- Easy to access
- Suitable for casual players who don’t want to invest in extra gear
Disadvantages of using a keyboard and mouse in RoadCraft:
- Lack of precision when accelerating or braking
- Lower immersion and feedback compared to a wheel
- Jerky and imprecise control, making complex maneuvers frustrating
Verdict? If you’re a die-hard keyboard-mouse user, you’ll get by — but don’t expect a truly immersive experience. RoadCraft requires precision driving, and even the best keyboard won’t match the smooth control of a racing wheel.
Playing RoadCraft with a gamepad
The gamepad is the ideal choice for players looking for a balance between ease of use and driving feel. Unlike the keyboard, it offers smoother vehicle handling thanks to its analog triggers, allowing you to apply gentle or forceful acceleration and braking. No more “all or nothing” — a light press makes you inch forward, while a full press gives you full power.
Another advantage: analog sticks provide solid flexibility in turns. It’s not as realistic as a wheel, but the intuitive controls help you anticipate your path and adjust direction with minimal effort.
Advantages of using a gamepad in RoadCraft:
- Smooth control over acceleration and braking
- Versatile — easily used for many other games
- Easy to install and user-friendly
Disadvantages of using a gamepad in RoadCraft:
- Limited feedback compared to a racing wheel
- Fewer buttons available for complex controls
- Some stiffness in movement remains
It’s a solid option for casual players or those not ready to invest in a racing wheel. However, you’ll want a high-quality gamepad like the HEART CONTROLLER for the best experience.
Playing RoadCraft with a racing wheel and pedals
If you want to really feel the thrill of driving, a racing wheel is your best option. Every motion and feedback is delivered right into your hands for a hyper-realistic experience. Nothing beats the adrenaline rush!
Advantages of using a racing wheel in RoadCraft:
- Excellent precision for progressive acceleration and braking
- Immersive and realistic driving feel
- Designed for long sessions with optimal ergonomics
Disadvantages of using a racing wheel in RoadCraft:
- Once you try it, you won’t want to go back to a keyboard or gamepad!
Which racing wheel should you choose for RoadCraft?
Now that we know the wheel is the best option, which one should you go for? We recommend the T248, combined with the SimTask Steering Kit.
Why choose the T248 for RoadCraft?
The T248 is built for immersive driving, with three force feedback modes and an interactive display to show real-time data. It comes with a magnetic pedal set, giving you the finesse you need for accurate braking and acceleration. The result? You’ll feel the difference between muddy ground, freshly paved roads, and chaotic construction zones.
Why the SimTask Steering Kit is a great accessory for RoadCraft
Most racing wheels are not designed for trucking or farming simulations. The SimTask Steering Kit changes that. It transforms the T248 into a proper truck-style wheel setup, with tilt adjustment and a steering knob for intuitive maneuvering. Your rig ends up feeling like the cabin of a real heavy-duty machine.
So, which one wins?
If we ranked the options by immersion and control, here’s how it would look:
- Racing Wheel (T248 + SimTask Steering Kit): The perfect duo for enthusiasts, offering unmatched realism.
- Gamepad: A viable compromise, though lacking full immersion.
- Keyboard and Mouse: Practical, but far from optimal for this type of simulation.
RoadCraft is all about mastering powerful machines. To truly enjoy the gameplay and realism, a racing wheel is clearly the best choice.
In the end, your setup depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you just want to play, a keyboard or gamepad will do. But if you want to fully dive into the RoadCraft world and feel every bump, load, and challenge — the T248 + SimTask Steering Kit combo is unbeatable.