RPCS3 is one of the best emulators to run console games on your PC. It is a free and open-source video game console emulator that you can easily install on your PC to run PS3 games. However, you can sync your controller to your PC. But what to do when RPCS3 does not detect your controller?
Here are some fixes and workarounds that will help you to fix RPCS3 not detecting controller and rpcs3 not recognizing controller issues.
Related: 8 Ways to Fix PS5 Controller Not Responding or Working?
How to fix RPCS3 Not Detecting Controller?
There are many controllers that you can sync to your PC and play games using your controller on the RPCS3 emulator. However, RPCS3 recommends you use DualShock 3, DualShock 4, DualSense, and Xbox or XInput-compatible controller.
These controllers improve the overall performance and are suggested for better connectivity. But your controller can disconnect anytime, and you need to fix it to sync with the RPCS3 again. Follow the below methods to fix an unresponsive controller that is not working with RPCS3.
Install recommended drivers.
Playing games on RPCS3 via a controller is not easy at all. You will have to install all recommended drivers and tools for your controller. Visit the RPCS3 Wiki: Controller Configuration page to install drivers and understand the basic settings of your controller.
Note: It is important that you install the recommended drivers otherwise RPCS3 will not detect your controller.
Install DS4 Windows software.
After installing the recommended drivers from the RPCS3 wiki page, if your controller is not syncing or connecting to your PC then you should install the DS4/DS5 windows software to use the PS4 or PS5 controller on your PC.
Visit the official website of DS4/DS5 windows software and click on the Download button. Now install the setup file and complete the installation. Once done, connect your PS4/ PS5 controller to your PC via Bluetooth or wire cable.
Launch the game on RPCS3 and try to press the buttons of your controller. It should definitely work and if still RPCS3 is not detecting your controller, follow the next method.
Update your Bluetooth drivers.
Right-click on the Windows icon and select Device Manager. Now right-click on the Bluetooth icon and select Scan for hardware changes.
Once done, expand the Bluetooth drivers and devices. Right-click on your controller and select Disable device. Now enable it again and check if RPCS3 detects your controller.
If this doesn’t help, then Uninstall the device from the Bluetooth settings and connect your controller again.
Reset your controller.
Sometimes your controller may be unresponsive and this can conflict with the connection of your PC. You can reset the controller to restore its default settings and connect to your PC again.
Use a fine pointy object to press the reset button of your controller. You can find it at the back of your controller and press and hold it for a few seconds. Now restart your PC as well and connect the controller again.
Change your cable.
If you are using a wire cable to connect your controller to your PC, then make sure that the cable is not damaged and loose. Many users fixed this issue by changing the cable. Moreover, you should also try to sync your controller using the Bluetooth option.
Open the Bluetooth settings on your Windows 10 or 11 device. Click on Add a device option and select the Bluetooth option. Now your system will detect your controller and once you see it on your screen, simply click on the Connect button.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my controller not being recognized by RPCS3?
This could be caused by a variety of reasons such as outdated drivers, incorrect controller settings, or compatibility issues with the controller itself.
How do I fix the “controller not detected” error on RPCS3?
Try reinstalling the controller drivers, checking the controller settings in RPCS3, and making sure the controller is properly plugged in or connected wirelessly. You can also try different USB ports or different controller types.
Can I use a third-party controller with RPCS3?
Some third-party controllers may work with RPCS3, but compatibility can vary. It is recommended to check the controller’s compatibility with RPCS3 or use an officially supported controller.
How do I configure my controller settings in RPCS3?
You can configure controller settings in the RPCS3 settings menu under the “Controllers” option. You can also use the “Controller Configuration” feature to set button mapping and other settings.
Can I use a controller with a USB wireless adapter on RPCS3?
Some wireless adapters may work with RPCS3, but compatibility can vary. It is recommended to check the adapter’s compatibility with RPCS3 or use a wired controller for the best results.
So this is all you need to know regarding how to fix RPCS3 not detecting your controller issue. I hope the above methods help you to connect your controller to RPCS3 and you can play your game peacefully.
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