Sony confirms that the PlayStation 4’s controller, the DualShock 4, will work out of the box with any Windows based PC. The PS3’s controller the DualShock 3 could work on PC, but it require special drivers and third-party software, most notably MotionJoy, to work. It’s competitor the 360 had its controller work right out of the box.
SCE President Shuhei Yoshida confirmed via Twitter than their new controller would work “by default” with Windows PC, adding that it would be compatible “for basic functions.” The implied meaning is that the analog sticks, d-pad, triggers and ace buttons will all work as intended and only special features of the DualShock 4 may not be compatible like the touchpad.
Multiple developers who have worked with the DualShock 4, like Retro City Rampage creator Brian Proviciano, have also confirmed that it works like this.