This is simple and should work with most games on Steam (unless they are emulated through DOSBox or similar):

1. Right click on the game in Steam and select "Properties".
2. Go down to the "Controller" tab.
3. Change the settings from "use default settings" to "Enable Steam input".
4. Enjoy the game.

If you can't get your Steam Deck controls to work then do a hard reset and relaunch the game after rebooting.

If it still doesn't work the game might've designated the Steam Deck as player 2. Switch the controls to player 1 and rebind the keys in the game settings if needed, then close and relaunch the game.

If it still doesn't work you might have to rebind the keys in Steam controller configuration tool found in "Properties > Controller > Controller configurator."


For non-supported games (e.g: non-Steam games, very old games, emulators, or if you experience any other detection/connectivity issues) you can can use either DS4Windows or DualsenseX:

• https://github.com/Ryochan7/DS4Windows/releases/tag/v3.3.3
  
• https://github.com/Paliverse/DualSenseX/releases/tag/1.4.9
  
  For unsupported controllers which don't work at all try using JoyToKey:
  
  
• https://joytokey.net/en/download
  
  
  Bluetooth updates:
  Update your bluetooth driver to the latest version If you play games wirelessly. Intel's driver is most commonly used on Windows, but it might differ depending on the bran and model.
  
  
• https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/download/18649/intel-wireless-bluetooth-drivers-for-windows-10-and-windows-11.html
  
  
  Firmware updates:
  Some controllers and arcade sticks receive firmware updates which improve stability, connectivity, responsiveness, or fix issues. Dual Sense controller for example (the PS5 controller) received a pretty big firmware update in August (as of October 2024).
  
  Update your controller to the latest firmware using the updater found below.
  
  Dual Sense and Dual Sense Edge (PS5) controllers:
  
  
• https://controller.dl.playstation.net/controller/lang/en/2100004.html
  
  Xbox controllers:
  
  You can update your controller wirelessly, with a USB connection, or on a PC using the Xbox Accessories app.
  
  
• https://www.microsoft.com/p/xbox-accessories/9nblggh30xj3?
  
• https://support.xbox.com/en-US/help/hardware-network/controller/update-xbox-wireless-controller
  
  8Bitdo controllers and arcade sticks:
  
  If you have an 8bitdo controller or arcade stick you can update your controller to the latest firmware using the update tool found on their support page.
  
  
• https://support.8bitdo.com/
  
  Nintendo Pro controller:
  
  The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller can only be updated via the Nintendo Switch. From the HOME Menu select "System Settings" > "Controllers and Sensors" > "Update Controllers."
  
  Mayflash arcade sticks:
  
  If you have a MayFlash arcade stick you can update it using the latest firmware found on their support page:
  
  
• https://www.mayflash.com/Support/list-24.html
  
  Hori controllers and arcade sticks:
  
  
• https://stores.horiusa.com/firmware-updates/
  
  
  Best of luck and have fun.