How do I switch a PC game to gamepad controls?
Connect the controller first, then open the game's settings and look for a Controls, Input or Gamepad section where you can choose controller input. Many modern PC games switch automatically the moment you press a button on the gamepad. If a game does not support controllers at all, Steam Input can map gamepad buttons to keyboard and mouse.
Step by step on Windows
- Connect the gamepad. Plug it in by USB, or pair it over Bluetooth in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device. Xbox controllers also work with the Xbox Wireless Adapter.
- Check that Windows sees it. Xbox controllers work out of the box; PlayStation and other controllers may need Steam or the manufacturer's software to work in every game.
- Select it in the game. Open Options > Controls (or Input) and choose Controller or Gamepad. Some games also have a separate button-prompt setting.
- Restart the game if needed. Some games only detect controllers that were connected before launch.
Games without controller support
- Steam Input: in Steam, open the game's Properties > Controller and enable Steam Input. You can load community layouts or map buttons to keys yourself. Non-Steam games can be added to Steam to use this too.
- Look at the store page: Steam lists "Full controller support" or "Partial controller support."
On phones and tablets
Pair the controller in Bluetooth settings. Android and iPhone support Xbox and PlayStation controllers natively, and games that support controllers will use them automatically.
FAQ
Why doesn't my game detect the controller?
Reconnect it before launching, close other controller software that may conflict, and check whether Steam Input is on or off for that game — toggling it often fixes detection.
Can I use a gamepad instead of a mouse in Windows?
Yes, with Steam's desktop controller layout or third-party mapping tools, though it is slower than a mouse for everyday work.
Can I play every PC game with a controller?
Not natively, but Steam Input can map controller buttons to keyboard and mouse for almost any game.
Is a controller better than mouse and keyboard on PC?
Controllers suit racing, action and platform games; mouse and keyboard are better for shooters and strategy games.