protonscr

External Xbox controllers do not work with XInput by default.

protonopen
ValveSoftware/Proton#9611 · opened 2026-03-24 by BerkUnver · updated 2026-03-24 · 0 comments · github
BBerkUnver 2026-03-24 github

Proton version: 10.0

By default, Xbox controllers connected to a Steam Deck via USB or Bluetooth will not provide inputs when queried with XInputGetState. They show up, but their XINPUT_STATE structure will always be zeroed out.

If I go to the Steam settings for my game (Gear icon -> Properties -> Controller), and set "Override for [GAME NAME]" to "Disable Steam Input" and restart the game, Xbox controllers start working.

Note that HID devices, which are exposed as XInput devices by Proton, do work and show up as XInput devices even if the override is not set.

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