Use a Controller with Genshin Impact: Setup, Tips, and Troubleshooting Guide

Level Up Your Genshin Impact Experience: A Controller Guide for Travelers

Are you tired of swiping your phone screen? Do keyboard and mouse sessions tire you out? Well, Traveler, you are in luck. Genshin Impact, the popular open-world RPG, supports controllers. Yes, that’s right. Say goodbye to digital controls and hello to buttons. Let’s explore how to set up your gamepad for Genshin Impact, and how it can enhance your PC gaming too.

Genshin Impact and Controller Compatibility: A Match Made in Teyvat

First, Genshin Impact plays well with controllers. HoYoverse allows controller support on various platforms. While you can explore Mondstadt on PCs and iPads, Android users miss out. It’s an odd choice to exclude Android, but iOS devices prevail for controllers right now.

Choosing the right controller can be daunting. But for the best Genshin Impact experience, consider the 8Bitdo Ultimate 2.4G Wireless Controller – Chongyun Edition. This officially licensed controller features Chongyun’s cool design and connects easily with PCs and Apple devices. It’s a top pick for many gamers. Think of it as the Kamisato Ayaka of controllers – stylish and effective.

Alongside traditional controllers, versatile options like the Backbone One also shine in Genshin Impact. This device clamps onto your smartphone and changes it into a handheld console, similar to a Nintendo Switch. The Backbone One caters to many platforms, including GeForce Now and PS Remote Play. Remember, Android phones do not support Genshin’s controller features. Zenless Zone Zero supports controllers like Backbone One too. HoYoverse remains friendly towards controllers, making life easier for gamers.

Connecting Your Controller to Your PC: Wired, Wireless, and Everything In Between

Ready to use a controller on your PC? Great choice. Let’s get into the steps for connecting your gamepad. Thankfully, it is straightforward to connect a controller to your PC.

The Holy Trinity of PC Controller Connections: USB, Bluetooth, and Wireless Adapters

These are your connection methods. Each has advantages, but all accomplish the task.

• The Reliable USB Cable: The easiest method. For a solid connection, use a USB cable. Connect one end to your controller, and the other to your PC USB port. Plug-and-play simplicity with no batteries needed!
• Bluetooth Bliss: No wires needed! Bluetooth offers wireless freedom. Most modern PCs have built-in Bluetooth. Just put your controller in pairing mode and connect via Bluetooth settings. It’s convenient and stylish.
• The Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows: Ideal for Xbox controllers. This dongle provides a dedicated connection that outperforms Bluetooth. If you love Xbox controllers, consider this for a stable wireless experience.

Xbox Controller Connection: A Step-by-Step Guide

Xbox controllers are default choices for PC gaming. They are comfy and widely supported. Follow these steps to connect yours:

1. Power Up: Hold the Xbox button in the center of the controller until it lights up. This turns it on and signals readiness.
2. Initiate Pairing Mode: Locate the pairing button near the charging port on the controller. Press and hold until the Xbox button starts flashing rapidly. This indicates it’s searching for a connection.
3. Connect via Your Chosen Method:
   • USB: If using wired, plug in the USB cable now. Windows should detect and configure your controller automatically.
   • Bluetooth: On your PC, access Bluetooth settings (search “Bluetooth” in the Windows bar). Ensure Bluetooth is on. Click “Add Bluetooth or other device” and select “Bluetooth.” When your Xbox Wireless Controller appears, click to pair. You may have to enter a code.
   • Xbox Wireless Adapter: Insert the adapter into a USB port on your PC. Press its pairing button. Then, follow previous steps to put your controller into pairing mode. They will find and connect automatically.
4. Connection Confirmation: When connected successfully, the Xbox button will stop flashing and remain solid. You are ready to game!

Troubleshooting Xbox Controller Connection Hiccups: Not every connection goes smoothly. Here are common fixes:

• The Blinking Xbox Button Blues: A blinking Xbox button indicates problems with connection. Here are quick fixes:
• Restart Your Controller: Turn off your controller by holding the Xbox button until it powers down. Turn it back on and attempt pairing again.
• Restart Your PC: This classic trick often resolves tech issues.
• Check Batteries or Charge: Low batteries cause connection issues. Ensure your controller has fresh batteries or is fully charged if wireless.
• Bluetooth Behaving Badly?: Confirm Bluetooth is enabled on your PC. Toggle Bluetooth off then back on to resolve potential glitches.
• USB Cable Chaos?: If using USB, try a different cable or port. A faulty cable or port may be the issue.
• Driver Drama: Outdated drivers cause issues. Ensure your Xbox controller drivers are updated via Windows Update or Microsoft’s site.
• Wireless Adapter Woes?: Unplug and replug the adaptive device if using the Xbox Wireless Adapter. Update its drivers too.

PlayStation Controller Connection: DualShock and DualSense Delight

PlayStation controllers, particularly the PS4 DualShock 4 and PS5 DualSense, are excellent choices for PC gaming. They are ergonomic and support various features. Let’s connect them:

1. PS4 DualShock 4 Connection:
   • Wired USB Connection: Connect your PS4 controller to your PC using a micro-USB cable. Normally, Windows recognizes it as a generic gamepad.
   • Bluetooth Pairing:
     1. Turn off the Controller: Ensure your PS4 controller is off. If on, hold down the PS button until it shuts down.
     2. Enter Pairing Mode: Press and hold the Share button and the PS button simultaneously until the light bar blinks blue rapidly. This shows it’s in pairing mode.
     3. Connect via PC Bluetooth: On your PC, look for Bluetooth settings. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on and add a new device. Select the controller when it appears in the list.
2. • 1. On a PC, access Bluetooth settings. Ensure Bluetooth is on. Click “Add Bluetooth or other device.” Choose “Bluetooth.” Your PC scans for devices. Look for “Wireless Controller.” Click on it to pair.
3. PS5 DualSense Connection:
   • Wired USB-C Connection: The DualSense controller uses USB-C. Connect a USB-C to USB-A (or USB-C to USB-C for USB-C ports) from the controller to the PC. Windows should recognize it.
   • Bluetooth Pairing: Pairing the PS5 DualSense is like pairing the PS4 DualShock 4:
     1. Turn off the Controller: Make sure the DualSense is off.
     2. Enter Pairing Mode: Press Create and PlayStation buttons together until the light bar flashes rapidly in blue.
     3. Connect via PC Bluetooth: Go to PC Bluetooth settings. Scan and select “Wireless Controller” when it appears.

DS4Windows: Your PS4 Controller Compatibility Booster: Windows has limited support for PS4 controllers. For better compatibility, use DS4Windows. It makes your PC think your PS4 controller is an Xbox 360 controller. This enhances compatibility with many games. It also gives extra features like touchpad mapping and light bar adjustments. It is essential for dedicated PS4 controller users on PC.

Nintendo Switch Controller Connection: Joy-Cons and Pro Controller Power

Switch controllers can connect to your PC. Use Joy-Cons or the Pro Controller. Here’s how:

1. Enabling Bluetooth on Your PC: Make sure Bluetooth is on your Windows PC. Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices and toggle Bluetooth on.
2. Pairing Joy-Cons:
   1. Separate Joy-Cons: If Joy-Cons are attached, detach them.
   2. Enter Pairing Mode: On each Joy-Con, find the SYNC button. Press and hold it until the lights flash.
   3. Connect via PC Bluetooth: In Bluetooth settings, click “Add Bluetooth or other device,” select “Bluetooth.” Your PC scans for devices. Select “Joy-Con (L)” or “Joy-Con (R)” to pair. Do this for each separate Joy-Con. For pairing together, configure within Steam or a specific game.
3. Pairing Switch Pro Controller:
   1. Enter Pairing Mode: Find the SYNC button on the top of the Switch Pro Controller near the USB-C port. Press and hold it until the bottom lights flash.
   2. Connect via PC Bluetooth: Use the same PC Bluetooth connection steps as Joy-Cons. Scan and select “Pro Controller.”
4. Steam Configuration for Switch Pro Controller: Steam supports Switch Pro Controller well. To optimize its use in Steam games:
   1. Enable Switch Pro Controller Support in Steam: Open Steam in Big Picture Mode. Click the gear icon for Settings. Go to Controller Settings. Tick “Switch Pro Controller Support.” Optionally, check “Use Nintendo Button Layout.”
5. Adding Genshin Impact to Steam for Enhanced Controller Support: Even without buying it through Steam, add Genshin Impact to your library as a “non-Steam game” for better compatibility. In Steam, click “Games,” then “Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library.” Locate the Genshin Impact executable file and add it. Running Genshin Impact through Steam provides better integration.

Connecting Controllers Without Bluetooth: The Wired and Adapter Alternatives

If your PC lacks Bluetooth or prefers wired connections, you still have options:

• The USB Cable Savior: Use a USB cable to connect the controller directly. Plug it in, and you are good to go. This works for most modern controllers, including Xbox, PlayStation, and third-party gamepads. For Xbox One and Series controllers, use their provided USB cables (micro-USB or USB-C).
• The Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows: This adapter does not depend on Bluetooth. It sets up its own connection. Just plug in the adapter, pair your Xbox controller, and enjoy wireless gaming.
• USB Bluetooth Adapters: Your Bluetooth Upgrade: For Bluetooth connectivity, buy a USB Bluetooth adapter. These inexpensive dongles plug into a USB port to provide Bluetooth functionality. Install drivers, and connect controllers wirelessly as if built-in Bluetooth were present.

Controller Connection to Your Phone: Mobile Gaming on the Go

You can connect a controller to your phone easily. This is straightforward for iOS (Genshin Impact support is missing for Android). Here’s how:

1. Enable Bluetooth on Your Phone: Open your phone’s settings and access Bluetooth options. Activate Bluetooth.
2. Put Your Controller in Pairing Mode: Follow pairing instructions for specific controllers (e.g., press pairing button for Xbox; hold Share + PS button for PlayStation; hold SYNC button for Switch controllers). Lights on the controller should flash.
3. Connect in Your Phone’s Bluetooth Settings: Scan for nearby devices. Your controller appears in the available list (named “Xbox Wireless Controller,” “Wireless Controller,” etc.). Tap your controller’s name to pair. You should be ready to game!

Configuring Controller Settings in Genshin Impact: Tweak it to Your Taste

Your controller is connected, now let’s set it up in Genshin Impact. Thankfully, Genshin Impact usually detects controllers automatically, but some settings may need tweaks:

1. Accessing the Settings Menu: Once in Genshin Impact, open the Paimon Menu. On PC, press Esc. On PlayStation devices, press OPTIONS.
2. Navigate to Controls: In the Paimon Menu, click the gear icon for Settings. Locate the “Controls” section.
3. Change Control Type to “Controller”: In Control settings, find “Control Type.” This option should show if a controller is connected. Select “Controller.” If already selected, proceed. If not visible, check if your controller connects properly. Restarting Genshin Impact helps in recognition.

Selecting “Controller” changes button prompts to reflect controller input. You’ll see controller icons instead of keyboard keys during gameplay. Start exploring Teyvat comfortably with your gamepad.

Controller Functionality Within Genshin Impact: Mastering the Button Layout

How do you control your Traveler using a controller in Genshin Impact? Here are key functions:

• Opening the Map:If you need your location or a waypoint, press the “Menu” button on Xbox (three horizontal lines) or “Options” on PlayStation (button right of the touchpad).
• the touchpad). This brings the full map of Teyvat.
• Opening the Paimon Menu: The Paimon Menu is your access point for settings, inventory, character screens, and more.
  • PC: On PC, press the Esc key to open the Paimon Menu.
  • PS4/PS5: On PlayStation, press the OPTIONS button to reach the Paimon Menu.
• Using Elemental Sight (PC Controller): Elemental Sight is vital for puzzles and resource gathering in Genshin Impact. On PC, hold the ALT key and click the Elemental Sight button (the eye icon near the minimap) or hold the middle mouse button. When using a controller, it’s usually mapped to a button, often a shoulder button or trigger. Check your game settings for the specific mapping. It’s usually straightforward and easy to access.

Besides these functions, movement, attacking, using skills and bursts, jumping, and interacting with the world are controlled through the controller’s analog sticks, face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. Genshin Impact’s controller scheme is designed well, resulting in smooth and enjoyable gameplay.

Using Controllers for Other PC Games: Expanding Your Gamepad Horizons

PC gaming offers versatility. Controllers are not just for Genshin Impact. You can use controllers with many PC games. Let’s explore the compatibility of PC controllers beyond Teyvat.

PC Games and Controller Compatibility: A Growing Trend

Yes, indeed! You can play numerous PC games using a controller. Many modern titles are developed with controller support in mind, especially those on consoles too. Genres like platformers, action-adventure, racing, fighting, and sports games feel more natural with a controller than a keyboard and mouse. Xbox controllers have become standard for PC gaming, but PlayStation controllers are also compatible and support continues to improve.

Steam’s Controller Support and Big Picture Mode: A Controller-Friendly Ecosystem

Steam is a leading platform for PC game distribution. It offers great built-in controller support, making it easy to use various gamepads with its games. Many titles on Steam are designed specifically for controllers. Steam’s Big Picture Mode enhances controller navigation and gaming on a TV from the couch.

Steam Big Picture Mode: Big Picture Mode changes the Steam interface into a console-like experience, ideal for controller use on larger screens. To enter this mode, click the “Big Picture Mode” icon in the upper-right corner of the Steam client window (it appears as a rectangle with expanding corners) or press the Home button (Steam button) on your controller while Steam runs. In Big Picture Mode, you can browse your library, access the Steam Store, adjust settings, and start games using your controller. It’s ideal for co-op sessions or leisure time with a controller-friendly game on a big screen TV.

Tools for Games Without Native Controller Support: Bridging the Gap

What if a game lacks official controller support? Don’t worry! You can often still use controllers with games designed for keyboard and mouse. Here are a couple of useful tools:

• TocaEdit Xbox 360 Controller Emulator (x360ce): This popular tool emulates an Xbox 360 controller. Many older or indie games that lack native support often are designed for Xbox 360 controllers. x360ce maps inputs from your controller (even if it isn’t an Xbox controller) to the XInput standard used by Xbox 360 controllers. This allows the game to recognize your controller and enable its input. It’s particularly useful for DirectX titles.
• DS4Windows (Again!): Yes, DS4Windows, which enhances PS4 controller support, also emulates an Xbox 360 controller for games that don’t support PS4 controllers natively. It’s a versatile tool with multiple functions for controller compatibility.

Mapping Controller Inputs to Mouse Actions: Customization is King

Even with emulation tools, you might need precise control over how your controller interacts with a game or your PC. This is where controller mapping software comes into play. These programs allow customization of inputs by mapping buttons and sticks to keyboard keys, mouse clicks, and movements.

• Steam Input (Built-in Steam Feature): Steam has a strong built-in mapping system called Steam Input. It allows remapping of buttons, creating custom control schemes, and mapping inputs to mouse and keyboard actions for any game launched through Steam. Access Steam Input settings by right-clicking on a game in your library, going to “Properties,” and selecting the “Controller” tab. Steam Input is very versatile and supports many controllers.
• Third-Party Mapping Software: Keysticks and JoyToKey: For advanced customization or mapping inputs outside Steam games, you can use dedicated programs like Keysticks and JoyToKey. These tools create profiles mapping controller buttons to nearly any keyboard key or mouse action. This enables using controllers with older games or productivity applications or even controlling your desktop with a gamepad.
  • Keysticks: Keysticks expertly simulates mouse actions with a controller. It helps control applications or games designed mainly for mouse input.
  • JoyToKey: JoyToKey focuses on mapping joystick inputs to keyboard and mouse actions. It is user-friendly and widely compatible, making it great for overall mapping needs.

Troubleshooting Controller Issues: When Things Go Wrong (and How to Fix Them)

• Controller Not Connecting: Here’s a checklist for handling connection problems across all controllers:
  • Bluetooth Basics: If using Bluetooth, confirm it is enabled on your device. Toggle Bluetooth off and back on.
  • Pairing Mode Panic? Ensure your controller is in pairing mode (lights flashing). If not, re-enter pairing mode.
  • Restart and Refresh: Restart your controller and device. This often resolves temporary issues.
  • USB Cable Check: If using USB, try another cable and USB port.
  • Wireless Adapter Woes? Ensure if using an adapter that it is plugged in properly and its drivers are updated. Unplugging and replugging the adapter may help.
  • Battery Blues: Check the batteries or charge level of your controller. Low power can lead to connection problems.
  • Driver Drama (Again!): Outdated or corrupt drivers can be a problem. Update drivers through Windows Update or the manufacturer’s website.
  • Interference Issues: Wireless interference can disrupt connections. Move away from other wireless devices or walls.
• Controller Acting Like a Mouse: Sometimes, when using Steam Input or mapping software, your controller may control your mouse cursor unexpectedly. If this occurs:
  • Steam Input Interference: Steam Input might cause this issue. You can disable it for a specific game or globally through settings. Right-click on the game in your library, go to “Properties,” then “Controller,” and choose “Disable Steam Input” from the dropdown. Alternatively, go to Steam Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings to disable it globally.
  • Mapping Software Mayhem: If using tools like Keysticks or JoyToKey, check profiles to ensure inputs aren’t mistakenly mapped to mouse actions.
• Ensuring Drivers Are Up to Date: Keeping drivers updated is crucial for optimal performance. Here’s how to update:
  • Windows Update:The simplest method is using Windows Update by searching “Windows Update” in the Windows search bar and running it. This often finds and installs latest drivers automatically.
• • for your devices, including controllers.
  • Device Manager: Manually update drivers via Device Manager. Open it by searching “Device Manager” in Windows. Find your controller under “Human Interface Devices” or “Xbox Peripherals.” Right-click and select “Update driver.” Choose to search for updated drivers or browse your computer for downloaded drivers.
  • Manufacturer Websites: For specific controllers, download drivers from the manufacturer’s website. Search for the controller model. Look for a “Support” or “Downloads” section to get the latest drivers.

Benefits of Using a Controller: Comfort, Control, and Genre Preference

Why use a controller? Controllers add advantages that can improve gaming experiences based on the game type.

• Genre Preference: Controllers Shine in Certain Genres: Keyboards and mice offer precision in genres like first-person shooters and real-time strategy games. Controllers feel natural in genres like platformers, racing, fighting, sports, and action-adventure. Analog sticks permit nuanced movement control, unlike digital keyboard keys, allowing optimized button layouts for various games.
• Comfort and Analog Control: Ergonomics and Precision: Controllers provide comfort during long sessions. Their ergonomic shapes fit well in hands, reducing strain from keyboard and mouse use. Analog sticks respond to varying pressure degrees. This means more control over movement speed, acceleration, and braking. In racing games, pressing the trigger lightly leads to smooth acceleration, while a full press offers maximum throttle. This analog control adds nuance and precision often absent in keyboard controls.

Alternative Input Methods: Beyond Controllers

Controllers excel, but they are not the only input method for PC gaming. Let’s discuss some alternatives:

• Keyboard and Mouse: The Classic PC Gaming Duo: Keyboard and mouse stay the standard input for PC gaming, especially in genres requiring precision aiming and rapid inputs, like shooters, MOBAs, and RTS games. They offer unmatched accuracy and speed for various games and are often preferred for competitive play in certain genres.
• Using Your Phone as a Controller: Mobile-to-PC Control: You can even use your smartphone as a controller for your PC. Apps and software turn your phone into a virtual mouse, keyboard, or game controller. This option is helpful if you lack a dedicated controller. These apps connect your phone to your PC via Wi-Fi, allowing control through touch input or motion sensors.

Additional Information: Genshin Impact and Beyond

Let’s cover extra info related to Genshin Impact and PC gaming:

• Crossplay Support: Play Together Across Platforms: Genshin Impact supports crossplay. You can play with friends on PC, iOS, Android tablets (note: phones lack controllers for Genshin), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X/S. Crossplay enables players across platforms to join the same game world and adventure together.