Fix ARC Raiders Controller / Gamepad Not Working on PC (2025 Guide)

If your controller or gamepad isn’t working in ARC Raiders, you’re not alone. Many players have reported that their controllers aren’t being detected, fail to respond in menus, or behave inconsistently — especially when switching between input devices like keyboard and gamepad.

This issue can be caused by driver conflicts, Steam Input settings, or background software interference. Fortunately, several reliable fixes can help you get your controller working again.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential solutions to make your controller or gamepad function properly in ARC Raiders on PC.

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⚙️ Common Causes

Before jumping into the fixes, let’s review what typically causes controller detection problems in ARC Raiders.

Possible Reasons Include:

• Steam Input or overlay conflicts
• Outdated or missing controller drivers
• Wrong input mode selected (keyboard/mouse vs. controller)
• Third-party software interference (like DS4Windows or InputMapper)
• USB port or cable issues
• Controller not configured correctly in Steam

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Fix 1: Check Controller Connection

First, ensure that your controller is properly connected and recognized by Windows.

Steps:

1. Unplug and reconnect your controller.
2. Try using a different USB port (preferably a rear port).
3. If using wireless, ensure your controller is paired and has enough battery.
4. Press Windows + R → joy.cpl to open the Game Controller settings panel.
5. Confirm your controller appears in the list and responds to input.

✅ Result: Confirms that Windows correctly detects your controller.

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Fix 2: Disable Other Input Devices

Sometimes, having multiple input devices connected — like steering wheels, flight sticks, or extra controllers — can confuse ARC Raiders.

Steps:

1. Unplug all other peripherals except your main controller.
2. Restart your PC and launch the game again.

✅ Result: Prevents input conflicts and ensures the correct controller is prioritized.

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Fix 3: Configure Steam Input Settings

Incorrect Steam Input settings are one of the most common causes of controller problems in ARC Raiders.

Steps:

1. Open Steam → Library → Right-click ARC Raiders → Properties.
2. Go to the Controller tab.
3. Under “Override for ARC Raiders,” select Enable Steam Input or Disable Steam Input — test both options.
4. Restart the game after changing settings.

✅ Result: Ensures proper input mapping between your controller and the game.

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Fix 4: Calibrate the Controller

If your controller behaves erratically or doesn’t respond accurately, calibration may help.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type joy.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Select your controller → Properties → Settings → Calibrate.
3. Follow the on-screen calibration wizard.
4. Restart your PC afterward.

✅ Result: Corrects analog stick drift and input inconsistencies.

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Fix 5: Update Controller Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers can cause the controller to stop functioning properly.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
2. Expand Human Interface Devices and Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click your controller → Update driver → Search automatically.
4. For Xbox controllers, install the Xbox Accessories App from the Microsoft Store.

✅ Result: Ensures the controller driver is up-to-date and compatible with ARC Raiders.

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Fix 6: Disable DS4Windows or Third-Party Tools

Programs like DS4Windows, InputMapper, or reWASD can sometimes interfere with Steam Input or create duplicate controller profiles.

Steps:

1. Close these tools before launching ARC Raiders.
2. If you need to use DS4Windows, disable “Hide DS4 Controller” or switch its emulation mode.
3. Relaunch the game to test.

✅ Result: Eliminates software conflicts and restores correct input detection.

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Fix 7: Check In-Game Input Settings

Sometimes, ARC Raiders may be set to keyboard/mouse input by default.

Steps:

1. Launch ARC Raiders.
2. Go to Settings → Controls → Input Method.
3. Ensure “Controller” or “Gamepad” is selected.
4. Restart the game after applying changes.

✅ Result: Forces the game to prioritize controller input over keyboard/mouse.

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Fix 8: Run Steam as Administrator

Running Steam without admin privileges can cause controller access issues.

Steps:

1. Close Steam completely.
2. Right-click the Steam shortcut → Run as administrator.
3. Launch ARC Raiders again.

✅ Result: Grants Steam full access to hardware devices, including controllers.

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Fix 9: Reinstall Controller Drivers (Last Resort)

If all else fails, reinstalling your controller drivers can help.

Steps:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Locate your controller under Human Interface Devices.
3. Right-click → Uninstall device.
4. Disconnect and reconnect your controller — Windows will reinstall the drivers automatically.

✅ Result: Restores a clean, functional driver setup for your controller.

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💡 Additional Tips

• Always connect the controller before launching ARC Raiders.
• Avoid using long or damaged USB cables.
• Update your Steam client and Windows OS regularly.
• If using Bluetooth, remove and re-pair the controller in Bluetooth Settings.
• Keep batteries or charge levels above 50% for wireless controllers.

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❓ FAQs

Q1: My Xbox controller works in other games but not ARC Raiders. What should I do?
A: Try toggling Steam Input settings or updating the Xbox Accessories App.

Q2: Can I use a PS5 controller with ARC Raiders on PC?
A: Yes, but ensure you enable PlayStation Configuration Support in Steam settings.

Q3: Why is my controller not responding mid-game?
A: Background apps or overlays may have interrupted the input — close them and relaunch the game.

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🎯 Conclusion

If your controller or gamepad isn’t working in ARC Raiders, the issue usually comes down to Steam Input misconfiguration, outdated drivers, or device conflicts.

By following the steps above — including checking connections, updating drivers, and adjusting Steam settings — you can quickly restore full controller functionality.

Once fixed, you’ll be able to enjoy ARC Raiders with smooth and responsive gamepad controls for a much better experience.