How to Fix Silksong DualSense Controller support not working

By Ambar Jimenez | 2025-09-11 09:52:16

Fix DualSense Controller Support Issues in Silksong

Overview of the Problem

Within 24 hours of Silksong’s launch, players began reporting issues with DualSense controller support, particularly on PC via Steam. While the game offers improved movement physics and refined combat mechanics, controller compatibility—especially with PlayStation’s DualSense—has proven inconsistent. The most common symptoms include:
  • The game not recognizing the DualSense controller at all
  • Steam defaulting to Xbox button layouts even when DualSense is connected
  • Bluetooth mode failing, while USB mode works intermittently
  • Inputs registering incorrectly or not at all
These issues affect both standard DualSense controllers and the DualSense Edge, though the latter is known to have limited support in some games.

Launching in Steam Big Picture Mode

One of the first recommended steps is to launch Silksong in Big Picture Mode, which can help Steam properly detect and configure controller input.

How to do it:

  • Open Steam and locate the Big Picture Mode icon (usually near the minimize button)
  • Click to launch Big Picture Mode
  • Navigate to your library and start Silksong from within this interface
  • To exit, press Esc, go to Power, and select Exit Big Picture Mode
  • Big Picture Mode often resolves layout mismatches and improves controller detection, especially for non-Xbox devices.

    Disconnecting External Input Devices

    Sometimes, multiple input devices can interfere with controllerrecognition. If you have other peripherals connected—such as flightsticks, drawing tablets, or additional gamepads—they may conflict withSteam’s input mapping.

    Recommended steps:

    • Disconnect all external input devices
    • Reconnect only the DualSense controller
    • Relaunch Steam and the game

    This clean setup helps isolate the controller and ensures Steam isn’t confused by multiple input sources.

    Toggling Steam Input Settings

    Steam offers customizable input settings per game. For Silksong, toggling Steam Input on or off can help resolve detection issues.

    How to adjust:

  • Right-click Silksong in your Steam library
  • Select Properties
  • Go to the Controller tab
  • Under “Use default settings,” try toggling between Enable Steam Input and Disable Steam Input
  • Launch the game after each change to test results
  • Some users have found success by disabling Steam Input entirely, allowing the game to detect the controller natively.

    Checking Windows Device Recognition

    If Steam isn’t the issue, Windows itself may not be recognizing the DualSense controller properly—especially in Bluetooth mode.

    Steps to verify:

  • Open SettingsBluetooth & DevicesDevices
  • Look for Wireless Controller in the list
  • Right-click it and select Game Controller Settings
  • In the pop-up window, check if inputs are registering correctly
  • If not, try the following:
    • Connect the controller via USB
    • Re-pair the controller over Bluetooth
    • Restart your PC and try again
  • Proper recognition at the OS level is essential for Steam and Silksong to register inputs correctly.

    Installing Controller Accessories Software

    While not always necessary, installing official software can help with driver-level compatibility.

    Options include:

    • PlayStation Accessories App: Helps configure DualSense controllers and update firmware
    • Xbox Accessories App: Useful if you’re switching between Xbox and PlayStation controllers
    • DS4Windows: A third-party tool that emulates Xbox input for DualShock/DualSense devices (use with caution)

    These tools can help bridge compatibility gaps, especially for games that default to Xbox-style input mapping.

    USB vs Bluetooth Mode

    Many players have reported that USB mode works, while Bluetooth mode fails to register inputs or causes layout mismatches. If you’re experiencing issues:

    • Try switching to a wired connection
    • Use a high-quality USB-C cable
    • Avoid using USB hubs or extension adapters

    Wired mode offers more stable input and is less prone to latency or detection errors.

    No Official Fix Yet

    As of now, Team Cherry has not released an officialpatch or statement regarding DualSense controller support. The issueappears to be widespread but not universal—some players report fullfunctionality, while others struggle to get basic input recognized.

    Given the popularity of DualSense and its advanced features (adaptive triggers, haptic feedback), it’s likely that a future update willaddress these compatibility concerns.

    Final Tips

    • Restart Steam after making any changes
    • Test in other games to confirm controller functionality
    • Use Steam’s controller configuration tool to remap buttons if needed
    • Monitor community forums for updates and shared fixes
    Tags: Silksong
    Platform(s): Microsoft Windows PC, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4 PS4, PlayStation 5 PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
    Genre(s): Metroidvania
    Developer(s): Team Cherry
    Publisher(s): Team Cherry
    Engine: Unity
    Release date: 4 September 2025
    Mode: Single-player
    Age rating (PEGI): 7+
    Video preview



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