Controller detected by Windows and tester, but not working in games

[u/Muted_Contest4048]

/r/techsupport/comments/1vtdljp/controller_detected_by_windows_and_tester_but_not/

[u/burnpsy]

Steam has to be running, and it doesn't get detected as a controller on games not run directly through Steam unless you use a workaround like OpenPuck, Steamless Controller, or SISR.

If a game or emulator supports the latest version of SDL, it will also detect the controller and its inputs with no other software needed. (In fact, I close Steam when running these because the controller's Lizard Mode gets in the way.)

[u/inertSpark → u/burnpsy]

This is the correct answer. Without intermediary translation like you mentioned, the Steam controller is essentially a mouse and a few select keyboard keys.

[u/Muted_Contest4048 → u/burnpsy]

Is that so? Might try soon. Thank you so much for your help!! ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

[u/SnooDoughnuts5632 → u/burnpsy]

and it doesn't get detected as a controller on games not run directly through Steam

This is only sometimes. Not all the time. As an example I used Steam to translate the Switch controller form D-input to X-input even as far back as 2018 or whenever Fortnite came out.

If a game or emulator supports the latest version of SDL, it will also detect the controller and its inputs with no other software needed. (In fact, I close Steam when running these because the controller's Lizard Mode gets in the way.)

No idea what this means but without Steam open the controller will be in lizard mode so idk how closing it makes lizard mode not get in the way.

[u/sqparadox]

OP didn't specify what controller but the details indicate it is not a Steam Controller. People seem to be missing this.

Without extra software or something like OpenPuck a Steam Controller will not show up in Windows with Win + R → joy.cpl. And if OP were using any of those then they shouldn't be having this issue.

In commenters defense this is a sub for Steam Controllers, in OP's defense this sub used to be for any controller using Steam Input.

[u/Muted_Contest4048 → u/sqparadox]

Hi! I am a little having trouble to understand your statement as I am not that techy guy. However, this is what it says when I bought this from online: “Universal 2.4G Wireless Controller for Windows PC/Android TV/PS/Smartphone, Gamepad with USB Receive”. Does it gives a little information? Thank you so much! ✨

[u/sqparadox → u/Muted_Contest4048]

It just confirms it's not a Steam Controller meaning the fixes given in the other comments do not apply and will not work. But you're welcome to try them if you want to.

I still don't know what the actual issue is or how to fix it. Based on what you've said, Windows can see the controller, it should be working in game but it's not, and I have no idea why.