Once I used Xbox controllers for 20 years, then I moved to the Dualsense... story time; help needed
Once I used Xbox controllers for 20 years, then I moved to the Dualsense... story time; help needed
I've always preferred working with the mechanics of a controller. My hands and fingers memorize every button layout, I don’t have to guess where the right one is—no searching, no fussing. Although I’ve been playing PC games since 1999, I’ve never really gotten the feel for key positions like pressing "M" or "I." I bought a mouse with 22 removable buttons so I could reach those tricky keys more easily; honestly, over the years my hand dexterity hasn’t been the same.
For about two decades, I used XB controllers and KBaM. Some titles just suit a controller better. I purchased an Xbox 360 wired controller in 2005 because connecting a DualShock 3 was nearly impossible back then—or at least I didn’t know how. Many claimed only Xbox controllers were fully compatible with Windows PCs, so I never really thought about alternatives. Until recently, controllers—especially XB ones—just worked without extra software or virtual devices; they simply plug in and play, functioning on every game that supports them. All the features are there, as straightforward as possible.
I only realized this after switching, but XB controllers are quite basic compared to the DualShock 4 and Dualsense. Their controller design has changed little since the Xbox One era, aside from cosmetic tweaks and paddle buttons. Features like gyro control and haptic feedback are huge improvements, though I’m not sure about the triggers.
Years ago—and still today—some people say controllers can’t match the power of a mouse and keyboard, that they’ll never be better. I think that’s outdated. Gyro inputs and haptics are now on par with KBaM, even without aim assist.
As someone unfamiliar with PC controller setups, I’m amazed by this new input method. I’d want it in every shooter I play, but I’m still confused and frustrated. These are the small questions that keep me puzzled. Can you explain this to a five-year-old?
I notice very few people use Bluetooth on these controllers—it seems wired is the standard. Does Bluetooth work at all for native DualSense? It appears games with native support don’t function via Bluetooth, but emulating an XB controller does.
How do I get proper rumble in games that only offer vibration? There are several tools—DSX, DS4Windows, Rewasd, Joyshock Mapper, Steam input—and many ways to configure them. I’ve tried countless settings with different software, but the rumble is often barely noticeable. Each tool has its quirks; DS4Windows gives the best results so far, though it’s not my top choice. Disabling virtual controllers and switching to native mode helps, as does setting everything to passthrough. Steam input works well too, letting me access all the detailed controller controls without extra layers.
Currently, I’d prefer a single method without extra software, but if the rumble issue isn’t fixed, I might stop posting here. Thanks for any help or advice!
The responses shared here could be useful
https://forums.pcgamer.com/threads/...d-...ost-386975