Fix Silksong Controller Not Working on PC | Xbox, PS5 & Switch

Many players report that their controllers are not being detected in Hollow Knight: Silksong. Whether you’re using an Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch Pro controller, the issue usually comes down to Steam Input settings, drivers, or conflicting software. This guide walks you through the best fixes in order, so you can get back into the game quickly.

Before You Start

Run these quick checks first:

• Update Windows, GPU drivers, and your controller’s firmware.
• Test with a wired USB connection before trying Bluetooth.
• Close any extra controller tools (DS4Windows, reWASD, etc.) while troubleshooting.

1. Configure Steam Input

Most controller problems in Silksong come from Steam Input mismatches.

1. Open Steam Library → right-click Silksong → Properties.
2. Go to Controller tab.
3. Under Override for Silksong, select Enable Steam Input or Gamepad Only.
4. Restart the game and test.

2. Select the Correct Controller Layout

If your pad is detected but buttons don’t respond properly:

• Open Steam Big Picture Mode.
• Go to Manage Game → Controller Layout.
• Pick Gamepad (XInput).
• Avoid keyboard/mouse templates unless using mods.

3. Remove Duplicate Mappers

Running mapping tools alongside Steam can cause the game to see two controllers at once.

• If using DS4Windows or reWASD, enable Hide DS4 Controller.
• Or close the tool completely before launching Silksong.

4. Re-pair or Use Wired Mode

Wireless connections often cause drops, especially on Bluetooth.

• Remove and re-pair your controller via Windows Settings → Bluetooth.
• Prefer a USB-C cable for first-time pairing or if wireless feels unstable.

5. Enable Vendor Support in Steam

Different controllers need specific support toggles:

• PlayStation DualShock/DualSense: Steam Settings → Controller → Enable PlayStation Configuration Support. For DualSense, also enable Use Steam Input for PlayStation controllers.
• Nintendo Switch Pro: Enable Nintendo Support and Use Nintendo Button Layout if you want A/B and X/Y swapped. You can also calibrate stick drift in Steam.

6. Clean Up Hidden Devices

Old or “ghost” devices can confuse Windows.

1. Open Device Manager.
2. From the menu, click View → Show hidden devices.
3. Expand Human Interface Devices and uninstall grayed-out gamepads.
4. Reboot and reconnect your main controller.

7. Force XInput Mode

Some controllers switch between DirectInput and XInput.

• Use the physical toggle or companion software to switch to XInput mode.
• Tools like x360ce can also emulate an Xbox controller if needed.

8. Close Overlays and Conflicting Apps

Background overlays can hijack controller input.

• Temporarily disable Discord Overlay, GeForce Experience, RGB software, or even the Steam Overlay if inputs drop.

9. Adjust Display and Foreground Settings

Certain engines drop inputs if refresh rates are unusual or if you Alt-Tab a lot.

• Try running Silksong in borderless windowed mode.
• Cap refresh rate to a common value (60/120 Hz) as a test.

10. Verify Game Files

If all else fails, a corrupted file may be the culprit.

• In Steam: right-click Silksong → Properties → Installed Files → Verify integrity of game files.

Extra Tips

• Keep only one controller connected while testing.
• Use the Windows Game Controller panel (joy.cpl) to confirm inputs register outside of Steam.

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FAQs: Silksong controller not working

1. Why does my DualSense work over USB but not Bluetooth?
Older Bluetooth stacks or power saving settings often cause this. Re-pair the controller, update Bluetooth drivers, and disable power management for the device.

2. My controller works in menus but not in-game. Why?
That’s usually a layout problem. Make sure Silksong is set to a standard Gamepad profile in Steam and restart.

3. Do I need DS4Windows or other tools for PlayStation controllers?
Not if you configure Steam Input properly. Extra tools may create conflicts unless you disable duplicates.

4. Why does my controller disconnect randomly?
This is often a Bluetooth issue. Test with a wired USB connection first to rule it out.

5. Can I use a Switch Pro controller without remapping?
Yes. Just enable Nintendo support in Steam and choose your preferred button layout.

6. Should I reinstall the game if nothing works?
It’s a last resort, but reinstalling can reset hidden configuration problems.

Most Silksong controller issues come from mismatched Steam Input settings or duplicate devices. Standardizing on Steam Input with XInput mode, keeping drivers updated, and removing ghost devices solves the problem for Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch controllers. With these fixes, you should be ready to enjoy Silksong without interruptions.