How to Get Xbox Controllers Working With Baldur's Gate 3? Is There A Controller Support For Baldur's Gate 3?

Learn how to make Xbox controllers compatible with Baldur's Gate 3, and get tips for setting up and using Xbox controllers effectively in the game.

by Alaguvelan M

Updated Aug 13, 2023

How to Get Xbox Controllers Working With Baldur's Gate 3? Is There A Controller Support For Baldur's Gate 3?
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How to Get Xbox Controllers Working With Baldur's Gate 3?

Discover how to play Baldur’s Gate 3, the fantasy RPG, using a gamepad instead of the traditional keyboard and mouse setup. Integrating an Xbox controller into the game might pose certain challenges, but worry not – if you're encountering issues getting your Xbox controller to cooperate with Baldur’s Gate 3 on Steam, you're not the only one.

To tackle this problem, start by testing whether your Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S controller functions with other games. If it doesn't, the initial step should be addressing the controller issue itself. Keep in mind that some older Xbox One controllers might require a Bluetooth-supporting dongle. Assuming your controller performs well with other Steam games, here's a comprehensive approach to getting it to function with Baldur’s Gate 3:

  • Close the game and return to Steam.
  • Access the Steam drop-down menu (make sure you're not in big picture mode) and select Settings.
  • Proceed to Controller.
  • Scroll down to Xbox Extended Feature Support Driver and click the Install button. The driver will be installed.
  • While you might be prompted to restart, it's not compulsory for the changes to take effect.
  • Relaunch Baldur’s Gate 3, and your Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S controller should now be recognized and supported. By adhering to these steps, you'll successfully activate Xbox controller compatibility for the game on your PC. For additional insights into Baldur’s Gate 3, explore guides on running the game on the Steam Deck and perusing the list of voice actors and their corresponding character roles.

Is There A Controller Support For Baldur's Gate 3?

To put it concisely, Baldur’s Gate 3 doesn't currently offer native controller support during its early access phase. Nevertheless, with the full game release on August 3rd for PC and an upcoming PlayStation launch, it's reasonable to anticipate controller compatibility. Larian Studios, known for their work on Divinity: Original Sin 2, which seamlessly incorporated native controller support for Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, is likely to extend the same to Baldur’s Gate 3.

However, this doesn't mean you can't use controllers with Baldur’s Gate 3 right now. You can actually configure the game to function with various controllers using Steam’s controller settings. Here’s the process:

  • Launch your Steam Client and click on Steam in the upper-left corner of the screen.
  • Access settings and navigate to the controller section.
  • Within the external gamepad settings, you'll find a range of controller configuration options.
  • Mark the checkbox relevant to your specific controller.
  • Close the settings window and right-click on Baldur’s Gate 3 within your Steam Library.
  • Head to properties and select the controller tab.
  • Click the drop-down menu and activate steam input.
  • In the external gamepad settings, you'll also discover the calibration and advanced settings, allowing you to fine-tune your controller's dead zone. Please be aware that due to the ongoing early access status of Baldur’s Gate 3, some bugs and glitches may arise when using the controller to navigate its intricate menus.

What Are The Steps To Enable Controller Support in BG3?

In the realm of Baldur's Gate 3, the default configuration rests on an "Auto" Input setting. This nifty feature entails the game's ability to smartly discern whether a keyboard and mouse or a gamepad is in play. This intuitive responsiveness promptly alters the on-screen controls to harmonize with the chosen input method.

For aficionados of BG3 traversing the PC realm with a controller in mind, the procedure is delightfully uncomplicated. A straightforward connection of the gamepad to the computer, followed by launching the game, is all that's required. This seamless integration translates to a convenient plug-and-play experience, ensuring the journey remains immersive and unburdened.

Of course, there are alternative settings that cater to specific preferences. These configurations maintain a steadfast focus on one control style, bypassing the automatic transition triggered by a different input source. Opting for "Controller-only" locks the game into this specific mode, impervious to any accidental nudges toward the keyboard. Conversely, those who prefer the "mouse and keyboard" realm need not fret about an inadvertent controller encounter altering their chosen input device.

What Are The Solutions For BG3 Not Recognizing An Xbox Controller?

Facing the vexing enigma of getting your Xbox controller in cahoots with Baldur's Gate 3 via Steam? Fret not, you're in the company of many. While I've yet to encounter any similar issues in the GOG version of the game, it appears that a multitude, myself included, have grappled with Steam-related predicaments.

Let's embark on a methodical quest for solutions. Commence by verifying if your Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S controller synchronizes harmoniously with other gaming realms. If it's evasive in other domains too, the crux of the issue rests with your controller's connectivity, warranting prompt resolution. It's worth noting that certain older Xbox One controllers might yearn for a Bluetooth boost via a trusty dongle.

But assuming your controller orchestrates a symphony of functionality with other Steam games, as it did for me, the plot takes an intriguing twist. Once you unleash the grandeur of Baldur's Gate 3, you're confronted with the disheartening reality that, regardless of the buttons you gallantly press, the game remains oblivious to your controller's existence.

To unravel this quandary, initiate your strategic retreat from the game and retrace your steps back to the haven of Steam. Traverse the Steam drop-down menu with caution (preferably devoid of big picture mode), and steer your cursor towards the realm of Settings.

With your coordinates locked onto the "Controller" realm, navigate the terrain below until you encounter the promising beacon known as "Xbox Extended Feature Support Driver." Kindly grace it with a click, thereby invoking the sacred "Install" incantation.

As the driver unfurls its digital embrace, you may be nudged toward the prospect of a reboot. While adhering to this advice might be wise, I chose a different route and found success sans a reboot.

Now, the pièce de résistance: rekindle the flames of Baldur's Gate 3 and bask in the glory of your Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S controller's newfound compatibility. And thus, dear seeker of wisdom on integrating Xbox controllers with Baldur's Gate 3 on PC, your quest finds its triumphant conclusion.

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How to Get Xbox Controllers Working With Baldur's Gate 3 - FAQs

1. How can I make my Xbox controller work with Baldur's Gate 3 on PC?

To achieve Xbox controller compatibility with Baldur's Gate 3, follow these steps to ensure a seamless connection.

2. What should I do if my Xbox controller isn't working with Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam?

If you're encountering issues with your Xbox controller on Steam, there's a solution to help you get it up and running smoothly.

3. Why isn't my Xbox controller recognized in Baldur's Gate 3?

If your Xbox controller remains unnoticed by Baldur's Gate 3, don't fret; follow these troubleshooting steps to ensure a successful connection.

4. Can I use an Xbox Series X|S controller with Baldur's Gate 3?

Yes, you can employ an Xbox Series X|S controller to navigate the world of Baldur's Gate 3. Here's how to make it happen.

5. Is there a way to configure my Xbox controller for Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam?

Indeed, you can customize your Xbox controller's compatibility with Baldur's Gate 3 by configuring its settings on Steam. Here's the process.