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PS4 Controller Is Not Working in RetroArch: 4 Ways to Fix It
PS4 controllers are a dream but a nightmare when not working
5 min. read
Updated onJanuary 22, 2024
updated onJanuary 22, 2024
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Key notes
The PlayStation 4 controller is a great input device for retro gaming. It has many buttons, works well with most emulators, and feels comfortable in your hand. However, sometimes your PS4 controller will not work in RetroArch.
If you are a gamer and love to play retro games on your PS4, you must have downloaded RetroArch or any other front-end emulator.
RetroArch is a popularall-in-one emulatorthat can run on various systems, including Linux, Windows, MacOSX, and Android, and lets you play old games on your modern gaming system.
Why isn’t my controller working with RetroArch?
There are many reasons why your PS4 controller might not be working with RetroArch. Below are some common reasons:
Now that you know the possible causes of your controller woes, below are some reliable solutions that can help you address the problem with your PS4 controller not working in RetroArch.
What can I do if my PS4 controller is not working in RetroArch?
Before we start making major changes, here are a few quick things you can do:
If these don’t work, move to the solutions listed next.
1. Update your drivers
Often, outdated or buggy drivers can cause issues with your controller. The latest drivers will have bug fixes and improvements that may help.
You can find the latest driver updates by updating your OS or downloading them directly from the manufacturer’s website.
Outbyte Driver Updater
2. Update controller firmware
You might already know that when you buy a controller, it has some default settings and features. These are only limited to basic functions and features, but not all of them.
However, when you update the firmware of your controller, then it will unlock more features that were not available earlier on your device and also increase its compatibility with RetroArch.
3. Update your OS
This may sound like an obvious solution, but it’s one of the most effective ones out there. You need to update your operating system when new updates are available to keep everything running smoothly.
You may miss out on bug fixes if you don’t update your system regularly. Then, there will be problems such as these when using RetroArch on your PS4.
4. Uninstall and reinstall RetroArch
If you’ve been using RetroArch for a while without getting any controller problems, updating it may be all that’s needed.
If the problems start after updating to a newer version, then it might be causing some issues with your PS4 controller not working properly. It’s possible that something went wrong during the installation process hence the need for a fresh install.
How do I connect my PS4 controller to RetroArch Android?
It’s no secret that Android has an impressive library of games, so gamers would want to connect their controllers to their Android devices.
You can easily connect your PS4 controller to your Android device using a Bluetooth connection. Next, you will have todownload RetroArch for Androidfrom the Google Play Store. You will be prompted to select a core acting as a console emulator.
At this stage, you need to consider how powerful your Android device is because lower-end and old devices running on old OS might struggle with compatibility issues and perform poorly.
Alternatively, you can opt for anAndroid emulator, given that Windows 11 now allows Android apps for a smoother transition.
IfRetroArch is not workingfor you; it could be due to outdated drivers, error downloading cores, or corrupted RetroArch app, read this guide to learn more.
Let us know if you have solved the issue of the PS4 controller not working in RetroArch in the comment section below.
More about the topics:emulator software,PS4 errors
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
