EA’s Skate. (2025) is finally here, bringing back the beloved skateboarding series with new mechanics, smooth animations, and a massive online world. While the game is fun with a keyboard and mouse, most players prefer the controller/gamepad for a more immersive skating experience. Unfortunately, many PC players are facing an annoying issue where their controller is not detected, not working properly, or has input lag.
If your Xbox, PlayStation, or third-party controller isn’t working in Skate., don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll go through step-by-step solutions to fix controller problems, remap controls, and get back to skating without frustration.
Common Controller Issues in Skate. (2025)
Here are some of the most reported controller-related problems:
- Controller not detected by Skate.
- Controller disconnects randomly during gameplay.
- Wrong button mapping (Xbox buttons showing on PlayStation controllers).
- Stick drift or unresponsive controls.
- Input lag or delay when using wireless controllers.
Step 1: Check Controller Compatibility
Skate. officially supports:
- Xbox One/Series X|S controllers (wired & wireless)
- PlayStation 4 (DualShock 4) and PlayStation 5 (DualSense)
- Officially supported third-party controllers via XInput
❌ Some cheap third-party controllers may not work properly without additional drivers or emulation software.
Step 2: Update Your Controller Drivers & Firmware
- Xbox controllers:
- Use the Xbox Accessories app (Windows Store) → Update controller firmware.
- PlayStation controllers:
- Download the Firmware Updater for DualSense/DualShock 4 from Sony’s official site.
- Windows updates:
- Press
Win + I→ Update & Security → Windows Update → Install all updates.
- Press
Step 3: Connect Your Controller Correctly
For Xbox Controllers
- Wired: Plug via USB cable. Windows should auto-detect.
- Wireless: Use Bluetooth or the Xbox Wireless Adapter.
For PlayStation Controllers
- Wired: Use USB-C (PS5) or Micro-USB (PS4).
- Wireless: Connect via Bluetooth. Hold PS + Share (PS4) or PS + Create (PS5) until light blinks → Pair in Windows Bluetooth settings.
💡 For DualShock 4, you may need DS4Windows software if it doesn’t register properly.
Step 4: Enable Steam Input (or Disable, if Needed)
If you’re playing Skate. on Steam:
- Open Steam Library → Right-click Skate. → Properties.
- Go to Controller → Override for Skate..
- Select:
- Enable Steam Input (for remapping support, especially PS controllers).
- If already enabled and not working, try Disable Steam Input.
💡 Some controllers only work properly when Steam Input is disabled, while others require it.
Step 5: Configure Controller Settings in EA App
If you’re playing via the EA App (non-Steam):
- EA App automatically detects controllers, but sometimes conflicts occur.
- Make sure other controller software (like DS4Windows, InputMapper, or reWASD) is not interfering.
- If multiple controllers are connected (like a steering wheel or second gamepad), disconnect the extras.
Step 6: Calibrate Your Controller in Windows
- Open Control Panel → Devices & Printers.
- Right-click your controller → Game Controller Settings.
- Select your controller → Properties → Calibrate.
This can fix issues like unresponsive analog sticks or drift.
Step 7: Fix Button Mapping Issues
If the game shows the wrong button prompts (like Xbox buttons when using PS5 controller):
- In Steam Input, set your controller type manually (Xbox/PS).
- Use DS4Windows for PlayStation controllers to emulate an Xbox controller.
- Remap buttons in Steam Big Picture mode if necessary.
Step 8: Reduce Input Lag (Wireless Controllers)
- Use a wired connection for the lowest input delay.
- If using Bluetooth:
- Keep controller close to PC.
- Remove other connected Bluetooth devices.
- Update Bluetooth drivers.
Step 9: Disable Conflicting Software
Programs like NVIDIA GeForce Experience Overlay, Discord Overlay, MSI Afterburner, or controller emulators can interfere with controller detection.
- Disable overlays and close background controller software before launching Skate.
Step 10: Reinstall Drivers if Nothing Works
- Press
Win + X→ Device Manager. - Expand Human Interface Devices & Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click your controller → Uninstall Device.
- Reconnect the controller to reinstall drivers automatically.
Additional Tips
- If your controller disconnects often, try a different USB cable or port.
- Install Skate. on an SSD for smoother performance and faster input response.
- Use Input Mapper software if your third-party controller is not recognized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Skate. support PS5 DualSense features like adaptive triggers?
Currently, most PC games (including Skate.) only support basic DualSense functions. Advanced features may not work unless EA adds support.
2. Why does my controller work in menus but not in-game?
This usually happens due to Steam Input conflicts. Try disabling or enabling Steam Input from the game’s properties.
3. Can I use a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with Skate.?
Yes, but you may need to enable Steam Input and manually configure button mapping.
4. Why is my controller showing Xbox buttons instead of PlayStation buttons?
This is normal on PC since most games use XInput (Xbox API). You can fix it with DS4Windows.
5. Do I need third-party software for Xbox controllers?
No. Xbox controllers are plug-and-play on Windows 10/11.
Conclusion
Controller issues in Skate. (2025) can be frustrating, but with the right fixes, you can get back to skating smoothly. Start by updating your drivers and firmware, check Steam Input settings, and calibrate your controller. If you’re still having problems, try using DS4Windows (for PlayStation controllers), disable overlays, or reinstall controller drivers.
By following these steps, you should be able to fix controller/gamepad issues and enjoy Skate. the way it’s meant to be played — with smooth, responsive controls.
