Making XBox 360 controllers work better on Windows

[WildW]

Like many folks I use wireless XBox 360 controllers on Windows. The behaviour of these isn't ideal since they are not always connected, and programs (especially emulators) can't see them when they're not turned on.

I've had issues with some emulators forgetting controllers - so if I ever start an emulator with only one controller powered on, the next time I want to use two controllers I have to go into menus and reconfigure the controllers. This is especially annoying on the HTPC with the screen across the room and the interface so tiny.

Is this just something you have to live with or are there any workarounds for this sort of thing? A way to make controllers persist in Windows when they're not connected maybe?

 

[Smoblikat]

Good question, one I am mildly interested in also. But ive had the same problems youre having for years now with emulators (or controllers that were assigned to player X are now magically assigned to player Y) and I assumed it was just somthing you had to live with.

 

[ImpulsE69]

I can't vouch for 360 controller, but the Xbox One controller has been trouble free so far. Is your issue you start the applicatoin before turning the controller on? Always turn the controller on first.


edit: n/m you are talking about 2 controllers..never done that.

 

[EXCellR8]

this is why wired > *

i've never had any issues with the X360 controller, going all the way back to WinXP

 

[Smoblikat]

this is why wired > *

i've never had any issues with the X360 controller, going all the way back to WinXP

I only use wired controllers, and I have the same exact problem. 99% of the reason its a problem is because I dont keep all my controllers plugged in at all times because they like to change who player 1 is for no reason, and I have my one controller that I like to use for myself. If you could statically force player numbers to controllers and have them stick, most of the issues would be resolved. Though emulators generally arent hotswap when it comes to configuring/loading controllers, so they all need to be plugged in and assigned properly before loading the emu.

 

[Raduque]

Honestly, I just keep my X1 wired controller plugged in 100% of the time.

 

[sweenish]

This is on the developers, and not MS.

Tomb Raider 2013 is a great example of it done right. Forgot to turn the controller on beforehand? No problem, the game will recognize it and change inputs for you. Controller goes off during the game? No problem, the game seamlessly switches back to KB/M.

I use an Xbox One controller with wireless dongle, the only issues I've had are games that require the controller be on before you start them. Those would be a problem with literally any controller.

 

[WildW]

Yes, seems this is more down to the way Windows deals with all kinds of controllers. I guess I was just hoping there was a way to maybe get controllers to persist as devices even when they're not plugged in.