When it comes to flying through the ‘verse in Star Citizen, control customization is everything. Whether you’re running a HOSAS or HOTAS setup, or flying with mouse and keyboard, there’s always room to refine your experience. For me, that next level came from a tool called Game Touch Controller—a powerful app that lets you create interactive touchscreen panels and custom buttons you can use in-game.
But let’s be clear up front: this isn’t a replacement for traditional input methods. I run a VKB HOSAS setup with pedals, a GNX-SEM-V, and a GNX-THQ-V—so I’m definitely not giving up physical hardware. Instead, Game Touch Controller works alongside everything else, adding extra control panels, system toggles, MFDs, and more—all on a touch screen.
What Is Game Touch Controller?
Game Touch Controller is a Windows-based app that lets you design and use custom touchscreen interfaces for games. You can build a virtual cockpit with switches, toggles, displays, and macros tailored to your needs. It’s all drag-and-drop, and each button or element can send keystrokes or key combinations directly to your game.
You install the server-side app on your gaming PC (where you’re running Star Citizen), and then use a client device to display your custom panels. This client can be your phone, tablet, or even another Windows device.
In my case, I use a 2-in-1 convertible touchscreen laptop, folded into tablet mode. It sits right on my desk in front me me, acting like a dedicated ship control panel. The convenience of having system controls and ship functions just a tap away has been a game changer.
How I Use It in Star Citizen
With GTC, I’ve set up touch panels for things like:
- Power and shield management
- Vehicle Controls
- FPS (On-Foot) Functions
- Turret Controls
- MFD Toggles
- Mining and Salvage Functions
- Chat macros (for quick comms)
- And So Much More!
All of this runs simultaneously with my physical controls. I still use my VKB sticks and pedals for flight, but i use the touch screen panel to activate quantum travel and to manage power settings.
The interface is fully customizable, so you can theme it to look like a ship-specific panel.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re like me and enjoy tailoring every aspect of your cockpit, yes. The flexibility to build your own interface and the added immersion make Game Touch Controller a great addition to any setup—not a replacement.
It’s lightweight, responsive, and works reliably across networked devices. The fact that it supports both Android and Windows tablets makes it super versatile, and it doesn’t get in the way of the muscle memory you’ve built with your main controls.
Final Thoughts
Game Touch Controller has become a natural extension of my Star Citizen command setup. Whether you’re managing systems mid-flight, landing at a bustling port, or just want to look and feel more immersed, it’s a brilliant way to extend your cockpit without cluttering it.
Got a touchscreen laptop or an old tablet lying around? Try turning it into your next in-game panel—you might never go back.