Fix: Can’t Use Controller on Dark Souls PC!

For many players, the Dark Souls: Remastered experience on PC hinges on the precision and feel of a gamepad, yet widespread reports indicate a frustrating reality: users cant use controller on dark souls remastered pc. This issue frequently surfaces within online communities, such as the Dark Souls subreddit, where gamers share troubleshooting steps. Popular controller models, including those manufactured by Sony (PlayStation) and Microsoft (Xbox), are often affected. Addressing this connectivity problem frequently involves steps to ensure proper configuration within Steam or other PC gaming clients.

Conquering Lordran: A Controller Compatibility Odyssey

Dark Souls: Remastered. Just the name evokes a unique blend of reverence and dread in the hearts of gamers. Reverence for its intricate world design, demanding combat, and the profound sense of accomplishment that follows each hard-earned victory.

Dread, however, often stems from the game’s notorious difficulty, a challenge that can be exacerbated by an often-overlooked enemy: controller incompatibility.

While the original Dark Souls PC port was infamous for its clunky controls and reliance on keyboard-and-mouse workarounds, Dark Souls: Remastered promised a smoother experience. Alas, the reality can be far from seamless for many players.

The Unspoken Boss Fight: Controller Configuration

Beyond Ornstein and Smough, beyond the Bed of Chaos, lies another formidable foe: the tangled web of controller configuration. For many players, the initial hours of Dark Souls: Remastered are not spent dodging Hollows, but battling unresponsive buttons, phantom inputs, and complete controller dropouts.

This struggle is surprisingly common, affecting a wide range of controller types, from official Xbox and PlayStation gamepads to more generic, budget-friendly options. The problem isn’t necessarily the quality of the controller itself, but rather the complex interplay of drivers, input APIs, and Steam’s often-confounding controller settings.

A Guide to Reclamation: Your Controller’s Redemption Arc

This guide serves as a comprehensive manual to navigate this controller compatibility labyrinth. It’s designed to provide clear, actionable solutions for a multitude of controller-related issues. Whether you’re wielding an Xbox Elite controller, a trusty DualShock 4, or a generic gamepad you found in the back of a drawer, the goal is the same:

To ensure that your controller becomes an extension of your will, an instrument of precision in the brutal world of Dark Souls, not another obstacle standing between you and victory.

We will delve into the specific configurations required for various controller types, dissect common problems such as incorrect button mapping and controller disconnects, and explore advanced troubleshooting techniques.

This guide aims to empower you to overcome these technical hurdles and fully immerse yourself in the rewarding, albeit punishing, experience that Dark Souls: Remastered offers.

Prepare to reclaim Lordran, not just with skill, but with a perfectly configured controller in hand.

Understanding the Roots of Controller Conflicts

Dark Souls: Remastered. Just the name evokes a unique blend of reverence and dread in the hearts of gamers. Reverence for its intricate world design, demanding combat, and the profound sense of accomplishment that follows each hard-earned victory.

Dread, however, often stems from the game’s notorious control scheme and, more pertinently for PC players, the persistent and frustrating controller issues that plague many a playthrough. Before diving into specific fixes, it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes that turn your meticulously chosen gamepad into an instrument of digital torture.

XInput vs. DirectInput: The Ancient Divide

At the heart of many controller woes lies the fundamental difference between XInput and DirectInput, two distinct API architectures for handling controller input on Windows. DirectInput, the older of the two, offered greater flexibility and supported a wider range of devices.

However, it placed the burden of managing compatibility squarely on the game developer. XInput, introduced with the Xbox 360, simplified this process by standardizing input for Xbox controllers, but at the cost of native support for other devices.

Dark Souls: Remastered, like its predecessors, primarily favors XInput. This means that Xbox controllers generally work seamlessly, while other controllers often require workarounds or emulation to function correctly. Understanding this divide is the first step in diagnosing compatibility problems.

The Role of Steam Input: A Double-Edged Sword

Valve’s Steam Input system aims to bridge the gap between different controller types and games. It allows you to remap buttons, create custom control schemes, and even emulate XInput for controllers that don’t natively support it.

However, Steam Input can be a double-edged sword. While it can solve many compatibility issues, it can also introduce new ones, especially if not configured correctly. Overlapping configurations, conflicts with other input mappers, and unexpected behavior can all arise from improperly managed Steam Input settings. Disabling or carefully configuring Steam Input is a common troubleshooting step.

Driver Issues: The Foundation of Control

The importance of properly installed and up-to-date drivers cannot be overstated. Drivers act as the translator between your operating system and your controller, enabling them to communicate effectively.

Outdated, corrupted, or missing drivers can lead to a host of problems, including controller recognition failures, input lag, and erratic behavior. Always ensure that you have the latest drivers installed for your controller, whether it’s an Xbox controller with native Windows support or a third-party device.

Common Conflicts: Multiple Controllers and Input Methods

Another frequent source of controller problems is conflicts between different input methods. Having multiple controllers connected simultaneously, or using a combination of keyboard, mouse, and controller input, can sometimes confuse the game and lead to unexpected results.

Similarly, running third-party programs that intercept or modify controller input can interfere with Dark Souls: Remastered’s ability to recognize and process input correctly. Identifying and eliminating these conflicts is essential for stable and reliable controller functionality.

Controller-Specific Configurations and Fixes

[Understanding the Roots of Controller Conflicts
Dark Souls: Remastered. Just the name evokes a unique blend of reverence and dread in the hearts of gamers. Reverence for its intricate world design, demanding combat, and the profound sense of accomplishment that follows each hard-earned victory.
Dread, however, often stems from the game’s notorious…] controller incompatibility issues. Overcoming these requires understanding the specific configurations for each controller type, and sometimes, a healthy dose of patience. Let’s delve into how to make your chosen input device a reliable weapon in your fight against the undead.

Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S Controllers: Native Support, Real-World Issues

Microsoft’s Xbox controllers are generally considered the de facto standard for PC gaming. In theory, this means near-seamless plug-and-play compatibility with Dark Souls: Remastered. However, the real world often throws curveballs, requiring some intervention.

Ensuring Proper Driver Installation

While Windows often automatically installs drivers for Xbox controllers, it’s worth verifying that these are up-to-date. Navigate to Device Manager, locate your controller, and check for driver updates. Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common culprit for controller recognition problems.

Troubleshooting Connection Problems (Wired vs. Wireless)

Wired connections offer the most stable experience. If your wired controller isn’t working, try different USB ports, ensuring they’re functioning correctly.

Wireless Xbox controllers can be convenient, but prone to interference. Ensure a strong Bluetooth connection, if applicable. For the Xbox Wireless Adapter, ensure it’s properly connected and the correct drivers are installed.

PlayStation DualShock 4 (DS4) Controller: The PC Adaptation

The PlayStation DualShock 4 (DS4) controller, while excellent, requires a bit more finesse to work correctly with Dark Souls: Remastered on PC. Its DirectInput nature means it’s not natively recognized by the game as an Xbox controller (XInput).

Necessity of DS4Windows and its Configuration

DS4Windows is a crucial tool. It essentially translates the DS4’s input into XInput, allowing the game to recognize it as an Xbox 360 controller. Download the latest version and follow the setup instructions carefully.

Pay close attention to driver installation within DS4Windows. Ensure you’ve installed the necessary drivers to prevent conflicts.

Steam Input Configuration for DualShock 4

Steam Input can also be used to configure the DS4. In Steam’s Big Picture Mode, navigate to Controller Settings and enable PlayStation Configuration Support.

This allows Steam to handle the input mapping. While convenient, it can sometimes interfere with DS4Windows, so experiment to find the best configuration for your setup.

Addressing Input Lag Concerns

Input lag is a common complaint with DS4 controllers on PC. To minimize this:

• Ensure DS4Windows is properly configured.
• Disable any unnecessary background processes.
• Consider using a wired connection.

PlayStation DualSense Controller (PS5): Navigating Setup Complexities

The PlayStation DualSense (PS5) controller presents similar, albeit slightly more complex, challenges compared to the DS4. While it boasts advanced features, achieving optimal compatibility with Dark Souls: Remastered requires careful configuration.

Utilizing Steam Input for Compatibility

Steam Input is often the most reliable way to get the DualSense working. Similar to the DS4, enable PlayStation Configuration Support in Steam’s Controller Settings. This allows Steam to handle input translation and mapping.

Potential Driver-Related Issues on Windows 10 and Windows 11

The DualSense’s driver support can be inconsistent across different Windows versions. Ensure you have the latest Windows updates installed.

Experiment with different USB ports. Some users report better results with USB 3.0 ports.

Generic Controllers: Emulation is Key

Generic controllers, while affordable, often lack native support and standardized input methods. Making them work with Dark Souls: Remastered usually involves emulation.

The Role of x360ce in Emulating Xbox 360 Functionality

x360ce is a popular emulator that allows you to map the input of your generic controller to XInput, effectively tricking the game into thinking it’s an Xbox 360 controller.

Download x360ce and place the x360ce.exe file in the same directory as the Dark Souls: Remastered executable. Configure the input mapping within x360ce to match your controller’s layout.

The Importance of Precise Controller Mapping

Precise controller mapping is crucial for a playable experience. Test each button and axis within x360ce to ensure they are correctly assigned.

Pay close attention to axis settings (analog sticks and triggers). Incorrect axis configurations can lead to unresponsive or erratic movement. Remember to save your x360ce configuration and test it thoroughly in-game.

Diagnosing and Resolving Common Controller Issues

Having navigated the complexities of controller compatibility and configuration, the next crucial step involves troubleshooting those frustrating moments when your controller refuses to cooperate. Let’s delve into some common controller issues in Dark Souls: Remastered and explore actionable solutions.

Controller Not Recognized: A Systematic Approach

One of the most infuriating experiences is when the game simply refuses to acknowledge your controller. This can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from simple oversight to more complex software conflicts.

Checking Physical Connections

The first, and often overlooked step, is to verify the physical connection. For wired controllers, ensure the USB cable is securely plugged into both the controller and your computer.

Try different USB ports, as some ports might not provide sufficient power or have driver issues. For wireless controllers, ensure they are properly paired and charged.

Verifying Device Detection in Windows Settings

Next, check if your controller is detected by Windows. Navigate to the Device Manager and look for your controller under "Human Interface Devices" or "Sound, video and game controllers."

If the controller is listed with a yellow exclamation mark, it indicates a driver issue that needs to be addressed. Right-click the device, select "Update driver," and choose "Search automatically for drivers."

Restarting the Game and Steam

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve the issue. Close Dark Souls: Remastered and Steam completely, then relaunch them. This can help refresh the connection between the software and your controller.

Incorrect Button Mapping: Recalibrating Your Controls

Another common problem is incorrect button mapping, where the in-game actions don’t match the buttons you’re pressing on your controller. This can be disorienting and severely impact your gameplay.

In-Game Settings Adjustment

Begin by checking the in-game settings. Dark Souls: Remastered allows you to customize button mappings to some extent. Ensure that the buttons are assigned correctly to your preferred actions.

Steam Input Remapping

Steam Input provides a powerful tool for remapping controller inputs.

In Steam’s Big Picture Mode, navigate to Dark Souls: Remastered, select "Manage Game," and then "Controller Configuration."

Here, you can customize the button layout to your liking, effectively overriding the default mappings.

Configuration within DS4Windows or x360ce

If you’re using DS4Windows (for DualShock 4) or x360ce (for generic controllers), ensure that the button mappings are correctly configured within these programs. These tools act as intermediaries between your controller and the game, so accurate configuration is essential.

Controller Disconnecting: Maintaining a Stable Connection

A controller that frequently disconnects can be a major source of frustration, interrupting gameplay at critical moments. Identifying the cause of these disconnections is crucial.

Checking Battery Levels for Wireless Controllers

For wireless controllers, the most common culprit is low battery. Ensure your controller is adequately charged.

Some controllers might have faulty battery indicators, so it’s always a good idea to charge them fully before playing.

Ensuring Stable Bluetooth Connection

If you’re using a Bluetooth connection, ensure that there are no obstructions between your controller and the Bluetooth adapter. Other electronic devices can interfere with the signal, causing disconnections.

Try moving closer to your computer or using a Bluetooth adapter with a stronger signal.

USB Port Troubleshooting for Wired Controllers

Even wired controllers can suffer from disconnections if the USB port is faulty.

Try using a different USB port or a different USB cable.

Sometimes, the USB port may not be providing enough power, especially if you have multiple devices connected.

Addressing Input Lag: Minimizing the Delay

Input lag, the delay between pressing a button and seeing the action reflected on screen, can significantly impact your reaction time and overall gaming experience.

Disabling Unnecessary Background Processes

Background processes can consume system resources and contribute to input lag. Close any unnecessary programs running in the background, such as web browsers, streaming services, or file downloads.

Adjusting Graphical Settings In-Game

Higher graphical settings can strain your system and increase input lag. Lowering the graphics settings in Dark Souls: Remastered can significantly improve performance.

Experiment with different settings to find a balance between visual quality and responsiveness.

Ensuring Proper Driver Installation for Your GPU

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can also cause input lag. Ensure that you have the latest drivers installed for your graphics card. You can usually download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website (Nvidia, AMD, or Intel).

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

Having navigated the complexities of controller compatibility and configuration, the next crucial step involves troubleshooting those frustrating moments when your controller refuses to cooperate. Let’s delve into some common controller issues in Dark Souls: Remastered and explore actionable solutions that go beyond the typical fixes.

Running as Administrator: Elevating Permissions for Controller Recognition

One surprisingly effective solution for controller recognition issues is running Dark Souls: Remastered with administrator privileges. This allows the game to bypass certain Windows security restrictions that might prevent it from properly accessing and utilizing your controller.

To do this, locate the game’s executable file (usually in the SteamApps/common/DarkSoulsRemastered directory), right-click it, and select "Run as administrator."

It’s a simple step, but it can make all the difference, particularly if you’re encountering persistent problems with controller detection. This action grants the game elevated access, potentially resolving conflicts with other processes or system-level settings that may be interfering with controller input.

Compatibility Mode: A Blast from the Past for Modern Problems

Dark Souls: Remastered, while a modern iteration, still carries some legacy code that might not always play nicely with the latest versions of Windows. Enter compatibility mode, a feature that allows you to run the game as if it were designed for an older operating system.

To enable compatibility mode, right-click on the game’s executable file, select "Properties," navigate to the "Compatibility" tab, and check the box labeled "Run this program in compatibility mode for." Experiment with different older Windows versions (Windows 7 or Windows 8 are good starting points) to see if it resolves your controller issues.

This workaround tricks the game into thinking it’s running on an older system, potentially bypassing compatibility issues that might be causing controller malfunctions. While not a guaranteed fix, it’s a valuable tool in your troubleshooting arsenal.

The Perils of Problematic Software: Avoiding Legacy DS3 Tools

In the quest for controller compatibility, it’s easy to stumble upon outdated or unreliable software. A prime example is MotioninJoy (DS3 Tool), a once-popular program for using PlayStation 3 controllers on PC. However, MotioninJoy is now considered highly problematic due to its invasive driver installation and potential security risks.

These old drivers can wreak havoc on your system, causing conflicts with other controllers and even compromising your system’s security. If you’ve previously used MotioninJoy, it’s crucial to completely remove it from your system using a dedicated uninstall tool or by manually deleting the associated drivers.

Stick to modern, well-supported solutions like DS4Windows (for DualShock 4) or Steam Input to avoid the pitfalls of outdated and potentially harmful software. A clean system is a happy system, and eliminating legacy driver conflicts can significantly improve controller performance in Dark Souls: Remastered.

Platform-Specific Considerations for Optimal Performance

Having navigated the complexities of controller compatibility and configuration, the next crucial step involves troubleshooting those frustrating moments when your controller refuses to cooperate. Let’s delve into some common platform-specific considerations in Dark Souls: Remastered, particularly focusing on Steam’s role and the legacy issues of the original Prepare to Die Edition.

Steam: The Double-Edged Sword of Controller Support

Steam, as a platform, plays a significant role in how Dark Souls: Remastered handles controller input. On one hand, Steam Input offers a universal API, allowing a vast array of controllers to function with the game, even those not natively supported.

However, this very flexibility can become a source of problems if not properly configured.

Understanding Steam Input Overrides

Steam Input allows you to override the game’s default controller settings. This is helpful for customizing button mappings or forcing recognition of unsupported controllers.

To access these settings, right-click on Dark Souls: Remastered in your Steam library, select "Properties," and then navigate to the "Controller" tab.

The "Override for Dark Souls: Remastered" dropdown menu is where you can fine-tune your controller experience. Options include:

• "Use Default Settings": Allows the game to handle controller input directly.
• "Disable Steam Input": Bypasses Steam Input entirely.
• "Enable Steam Input": Forces Steam Input to manage the controller.

Experimentation is key. Depending on your controller and specific issues, one of these options may provide a more stable and responsive experience.

Configuring Controller Layouts within Steam

Steam offers robust controller layout customization. If your buttons are mapped incorrectly or you wish to remap them for a more comfortable experience, Steam Input provides the tools to do so.

Within the "Controller" tab, select "Edit Layout." Here, you can remap individual buttons, create custom action sets, and even configure advanced features like gyro aiming (if your controller supports it).

Take advantage of this feature to tailor the controls to your personal preferences and overcome any inherent mapping issues.

Addressing Conflicts with Steam Input

Sometimes, Steam Input can interfere with other controller drivers or software, leading to conflicts.

If you’re experiencing issues like double inputs or unresponsive controls, try disabling Steam Input altogether. This will allow the game to directly access your controller, potentially resolving the conflict.

However, if your controller requires Steam Input for functionality, ensure that all other controller-related software is disabled or properly configured to avoid interference.

Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition – A Legacy of Controller Woes

The original Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition on PC is infamous for its controller issues. Unlike the remastered version, it lacks native controller support and relies heavily on third-party wrappers like x360ce.

The x360ce Dependency

x360ce is a DirectInput-to-XInput wrapper that emulates an Xbox 360 controller, allowing the game to recognize and utilize a wider range of input devices.

While essential for many, x360ce can be finicky to configure and prone to conflicts. It requires careful placement of its DLL files within the game’s directory and precise configuration of controller mappings.

Common Issues and Workarounds

Many players have reported issues such as:

• Controller not detected: Ensure x360ce is correctly configured and the DLL files are in the right location.
• Incorrect button mappings: Manually configure button mappings within x360ce to match your controller.
• Input lag: Try different versions of x360ce and experiment with its settings to minimize latency.

The Remastered Advantage

The existence of Dark Souls: Remastered largely mitigates these issues. Remastered boasts significantly improved controller support, making the original version largely obsolete for those seeking a smoother controller experience.

If you’re struggling with controller issues in the Prepare to Die Edition, upgrading to the Remastered version is highly recommended. It offers a much more streamlined and user-friendly experience.

Hopefully, this guide helped you finally conquer that annoying "cant use controller on dark souls remastered pc" issue! Now you can get back to dying repeatedly in Lordran, the right way – with a controller in hand. Good luck, and don’t you dare go hollow.