Controller Only Works in Steam? Here’s What to do

Prevent Steam from taking over the controller

5 min. read

Published onOctober 9, 2023

published onOctober 9, 2023

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Key notes

Many have reported that their PS (DualShock) or Xbox controller works only in Steam and not with other games installed on the PC. While some managed to find a solution, others were forced to replace the controller. However, before you get a new one, remember the problem is fixable!

For a few, the controller only worked with the gaming client in Big Picture mode and not during the gameplay. And in most cases, it turned out that the Steam client was at fault.

Why is my controller working only in Steam?

How do I get my controller to work on non-Steam games?

Before we head to the slightly complex changes, try these quick solutions first:

If none work, move to the fixes listed next.

1. Terminate the Steam process

Often, users found that the Steam client conflicted with the controller settings, and subsequently, the latter only worked with Steam games. Terminating the gaming client will helpget the controller to work!

Also, if Steam automatically loads at boot,disable the startup app.

2. Reconfigure the Steam controller settings

3. Update the controller driver

If thecontroller is not working with games, make sure the drivers are up to date! Start with the controller, and thenget the latest Bluetooth drivers.

In case the problem remains unresolved, check the manufacturer’s website, download the latest version, andmanually install the driver.

Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Add the game to the Steam library

When the Xbox controller only works on Steam, an easy solution is toadd the Xbox game to the Steam library. It has worked for several users, but should be used as one of the last resorts!

5. Switch to Steam Beta client

If the controller works in Steam but not in game, you couldopt for Steam Client Betaand get the latest updates earlier than others. This will eliminate any bugs in the installed version sooner!

When your controller only works in Steam, things are easy to fix! But there are also cases where thecontroller is detected but not working, and you will then have to look for game or controller-specific solutions.

Besides, if you are facing anyXbox Cloud Gaming controller issues, charging it or updating the firmware will do the trick!

For any queries or to share more solutions with us, drop a comment below.

Controller Only Works in Steam? Here’s What to do#

How do I get my controller to work on non-Steam games?#

1. Terminate the Steam process#

2. Reconfigure the Steam controller settings#

3. Update the controller driver#

Outbyte Driver Updater#

4. Add the game to the Steam library#

5. Switch to Steam Beta client#