Ghost of Yotei, one of 2025’s biggest action-adventure titles, has captivated players with its breathtaking visuals, engaging combat, and immersive story. But for some PS5 players, excitement turns into frustration when they discover that their controller is not working properly with the game.

Controller issues can vary: some players report that button inputs are delayed, others that the DualSense controller isn’t recognized at all, or that features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback don’t function as intended. These problems disrupt gameplay and prevent players from fully enjoying Ghost of Yotei’s unique PS5 experience.

The good news is that controller issues are usually tied to software glitches, outdated firmware, or misconfigured settings—and they can often be fixed with some quick troubleshooting. This detailed guide covers common causes of controller problems in Ghost of Yotei and offers step-by-step fixes to help you get back into smooth, responsive gameplay.


Common Causes of Controller Not Working in Ghost of Yotei on PS5

  1. Outdated Controller Firmware – If the DualSense firmware is outdated, it may not function correctly with new games.
  2. PS5 System Software Issues – Running on outdated system software can lead to controller detection errors.
  3. Corrupted Game Data – Missing or damaged files can cause Ghost of Yotei to ignore controller input.
  4. Wireless Connectivity Problems – Weak Bluetooth signals may lead to input lag or disconnections.
  5. USB Cable Issues – If using a wired connection, faulty or non-certified cables may fail to transmit input properly.
  6. Conflicting Settings – Controller profiles or accessibility settings may override Ghost of Yotei’s default configurations.
  7. Hardware Problems – In rare cases, the DualSense controller itself may be faulty.

Fix 1: Restart Your PS5 and Controller

Start with the basics:

  1. Hold the PS button on your controller.
  2. Select Turn Off PS5 (not Rest Mode).
  3. Power the console back on.
  4. Turn off the controller by holding the PS button for 10 seconds.
  5. Restart the controller and reconnect it.

💡 A full restart clears temporary glitches that may cause input issues.


Fix 2: Update Your PS5 System Software

Sony frequently releases system updates that improve controller compatibility:

  1. Go to Settings → System → System Software → System Software Update and Settings.
  2. Select Update System Software.
  3. Choose Update Using Internet.
  4. Restart your console and test the controller with Ghost of Yotei.

Fix 3: Update DualSense Controller Firmware

Your DualSense controller has its own firmware, and keeping it updated ensures proper functionality:

  1. Connect your controller to the PS5 using a USB-C cable.
  2. Go to Settings → Accessories → Controllers → Wireless Controller Device Software.
  3. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Fix 4: Reconnect the Controller (Bluetooth & Wired)

If the controller isn’t detected or inputs are delayed:

  • Bluetooth Method:
    • Go to Settings → Accessories → Bluetooth Accessories.
    • Select your controller → Forget Device.
    • Re-pair by holding PS button + Create button until the light bar flashes.
  • Wired Method:
    • Use a certified USB-C cable.
    • Connect directly to the PS5 (avoid third-party hubs).

Fix 5: Check In-Game Controller Settings

Sometimes the game itself may have incorrect input configurations:

  1. Launch Ghost of Yotei.
  2. Go to Settings → Controller Settings.
  3. Ensure Button Layout and Input Type are correctly set to DualSense.
  4. Reset to default if unsure.

Fix 6: Disable Conflicting Accessibility Settings

Accessibility features may override standard inputs:

  1. Go to Settings → Accessibility.
  2. Check for features like Button Remapping, Switch Control, or Input Assist.
  3. Disable them if enabled.

Fix 7: Test with Another Controller

To confirm whether the issue is with Ghost of Yotei or your controller:

  • Try another DualSense controller with the game.
  • If the new controller works, your original one may need repair or replacement.
  • If the issue persists, it’s likely a game or system issue.

Fix 8: Clear Cache & Rebuild Database

A corrupted cache may prevent Ghost of Yotei from recognizing inputs properly:

  1. Power off your PS5 completely.
  2. Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps (Safe Mode).
  3. Connect the controller via USB.
  4. Select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database → Rebuild Database.

Fix 9: Reinstall Ghost of Yotei

If the issue is tied to corrupted game files:

  1. Highlight the game on the home screen.
  2. Press Options → Delete.
  3. Go to Game Library → Purchased → Download Ghost of Yotei again.
  4. Install on the internal SSD for best performance.

Fix 10: Reset the Controller

If none of the above works, reset the DualSense controller:

  1. Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller (near the L2 button).
  2. Use a pin to press and hold the button for 5 seconds.
  3. Reconnect the controller via USB and pair it again.

Fix 11: Factory Reset PS5 (Last Resort)

If Ghost of Yotei still doesn’t recognize your controller, a system reset may be necessary:

⚠️ Backup your saves to the cloud first.

  1. Go to Settings → System → System Software → Reset Options → Reset Your Console.
  2. Follow the instructions to complete the reset.
  3. Reinstall Ghost of Yotei and test again.

Additional Tips

  • Keep your controller charged to avoid connection drops.
  • Avoid interference by playing close to the console if using Bluetooth.
  • Use official Sony accessories instead of third-party add-ons that may cause compatibility issues.
  • If using headphones plugged into the controller, test without them to rule out audio-related bugs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is my controller not working in Ghost of Yotei?
It could be caused by outdated firmware, corrupted game data, or Bluetooth connection issues.

2. Does Ghost of Yotei support DualSense adaptive triggers and haptic feedback?
Yes, but these features may not work correctly if your firmware or system is outdated.

3. Can I use a wired connection to fix controller lag?
Yes, connecting via USB-C reduces input lag and bypasses Bluetooth interference.

4. Will reinstalling the game fix controller problems?
Yes, if the issue is due to corrupted game files.

5. Should I reset my PS5 if my controller doesn’t work only in Ghost of Yotei?
Try all other fixes first. Resetting should be a last resort.


Conclusion

A controller not working issue in Ghost of Yotei on PS5 can be incredibly frustrating, but in most cases, the problem can be solved with simple fixes like updating the system, updating the DualSense firmware, or reconnecting the controller.

If those don’t work, rebuilding the database, reinstalling the game, or resetting the controller usually resolves the problem. Only consider a factory reset as the final option.

By following this guide, you’ll ensure your controller works smoothly, letting you enjoy every intense battle, breathtaking moment, and immersive detail in Ghost of Yotei’s epic journey. 🎮

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