How to Fix Your Expedition 33 Controller Not Working: Complete Guide

How to Fix Your Expedition 33 Controller Not Working: Complete Guide

BySarah

Having trouble with your controller in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33? You are not alone. Many players face controller issues with this popular turn-based RPG.

This guide covers everything you need to know about fixing controller problems in Expedition 33 so you can get back to enjoying the game.

Key Takeaways

  • Steam Input Conflicts: Disable Steam Input in game properties to fix most controller recognition issues
  • Controller Updates: Outdated firmware on your controller can cause compatibility problems with Expedition 33
  • PS5 Controller Issues: PlayStation controllers often need DS4Windows software to work properly with the game
  • Sound Panel Settings: Enabling your controller in the Sound Control Panel fixes many connection issues
  • Big Picture Mode: Using Steam’s Big Picture Mode improves controller detection and configuration
  • Xbox Button Prompts: Even when using PlayStation controllers, the game may display Xbox button prompts
  • Multiple Controllers: Having phantom controllers or multiple controllers connected can cause interference
  • Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth connection issues often require reconnecting or resyncing your controller
  • Game Updates: Game developers are aware of controller issues and are working on patches
  • Common Solutions: Most controller problems can be solved by reconnecting, updating firmware, or using specialized software
  • Button Input Problems: Some players experience specific button inputs not working after certain game sequences
  • Battery Issues: Low battery levels in wireless controllers can cause intermittent functionality problems

Understanding Expedition 33 Controller Issues

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an immersive turn-based RPG set in a dark fantasy Belle Époque setting. The game follows the volunteers of Expedition 33 who set out to destroy the Paintress, a mysterious being causing havoc. While the game offers an engaging gameplay experience, many players encounter controller issues that hinder their enjoyment.

The most common controller problems in Expedition 33 include controllers not being recognized by the game, specific buttons not responding, or controllers showing incorrect button prompts. These issues affect players across different platforms but are particularly common on PC.

Understanding the root causes of these problems helps in finding effective solutions. Most controller issues in Expedition 33 stem from compatibility conflicts between the game and your controller, outdated firmware, or interference from Steam’s controller configuration.

Common Controller Problems in Expedition 33

Players report several recurring controller issues when playing Expedition 33. Identifying your specific problem helps in applying the right fix.

The most frequently reported problem is the game not detecting the controller at all. This typically happens when launching the game, leaving players stuck at the title screen or unable to navigate menus. This issue affects both Xbox and PlayStation controllers but seems more prevalent with PlayStation controllers.

Another common issue is the game recognizing the controller but displaying incorrect button prompts. For example, PlayStation controller users often see Xbox button prompts, making it confusing to follow in-game instructions.

Some players also experience a problem where certain buttons stop working after playing for a while or after encountering specific in-game events. This is particularly frustrating as it often happens during critical gameplay moments.

Wireless controllers sometimes disconnect unexpectedly or suffer from input lag when playing Expedition 33. This can be particularly annoying during the game’s real-time combat sequences where timing is crucial.

Disabling Steam Input for Controller Fix

One of the most effective solutions for controller issues in Expedition 33 is disabling Steam Input. Steam’s controller configuration often conflicts with the game’s native controller support, causing recognition problems.

To disable Steam Input:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library
  2. Right-click on Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and select Properties
  3. In the Properties window, navigate to the Controller tab
  4. Find the Steam Input option and set it to Disabled

This simple fix resolves many controller issues because it allows the game to use its built-in controller support rather than relying on Steam’s interpretation. Players report that this solution is particularly effective for Xbox controllers.

After disabling Steam Input, restart your game to apply the changes. Your controller should now be recognized correctly by Expedition 33, allowing for smoother gameplay.

Many players report that this fix alone resolves their controller issues, making it the first solution you should try before moving on to more complex fixes.

Updating Your Controller Firmware

Outdated controller firmware is a common cause of compatibility issues with Expedition 33. Manufacturers regularly release firmware updates that improve controller performance and fix known bugs.

For Xbox controller users:

  1. Download the Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store
  2. Connect your controller to your PC using a USB cable
  3. Open the app and check for available updates
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to update your controller

For PlayStation controller users:

  1. Download the PlayStation Accessories app
  2. Connect your controller via USB
  3. Check for and install any available updates

Updating your controller firmware can fix various issues including input lag, button unresponsiveness, and connectivity problems. This is especially important if you’re using newer controller models with Expedition 33.

For third-party controllers, check the manufacturer’s website for firmware update tools or instructions. Most reputable controller brands provide regular firmware updates to ensure compatibility with new games.

After updating your controller firmware, test it with Expedition 33 to see if the issues are resolved. If problems persist, continue with the other fixes in this guide.

Using DS4Windows for PlayStation Controllers

PlayStation controllers often require additional software to work properly with PC games. DS4Windows is a popular tool that makes your PlayStation controller function like an Xbox controller, which is more widely supported in PC games.

To use DS4Windows with Expedition 33:

  1. Download DS4Windows from the official website
  2. Install and run the application
  3. Connect your PlayStation controller to your PC
  4. DS4Windows will automatically detect your controller
  5. Configure the settings as needed

When using DS4Windows, note that Expedition 33 will display Xbox button prompts instead of PlayStation buttons. This is normal and doesn’t affect gameplay functionality.

For optimal performance with DS4Windows:

  • Make sure you’re using the latest version of the software
  • Configure the controller to emulate an Xbox 360 controller
  • Disable Steam Input as mentioned earlier to prevent conflicts

DS4Windows is particularly useful for PlayStation 5 DualSense controllers, which have limited native support in many PC games. The software provides a layer of compatibility that makes these controllers work seamlessly with Expedition 33.

Enabling Controller in Sound Control Panel

A surprising but effective fix for Expedition 33 controller issues involves enabling your controller in the Windows Sound Control Panel. This solution works because some controllers are recognized as audio devices by Windows.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open Control Panel and go to Hardware and Sound > Sound
  2. Connect your controller to your PC
  3. Look for your controller in the list of audio devices
  4. Right-click on it and select Enable
  5. Right-click again and select Configure Speakers
  6. Select Quadrophonic in the configuration
  7. Check the boxes for Front left and right and Surround speakers
  8. Click Next and then Finish

This fix is particularly effective for Xbox Series X|S controllers and some PlayStation controllers. It addresses a Windows recognition issue that prevents the controller from functioning properly in Expedition 33.

Many players report that this seemingly unrelated fix instantly resolves their controller recognition problems. The solution works because it ensures Windows properly initializes all aspects of the controller, including both input and audio features.

Using Steam Big Picture Mode

Steam’s Big Picture Mode offers enhanced controller support and can fix compatibility issues with Expedition 33. This mode is designed specifically for controller use and provides more robust controller configuration options.

To use Big Picture Mode:

  1. Open Steam
  2. Click on the Big Picture Mode icon in the top-right corner
  3. Navigate to Settings > Controller Settings
  4. Enable Generic Gamepad Configuration Support
  5. Launch Expedition 33 from Big Picture Mode

Big Picture Mode improves controller detection and allows for custom button mapping if certain buttons aren’t working correctly. You can create a specific configuration for Expedition 33 that addresses any button responsiveness issues.

For PlayStation controller users, also enable PlayStation Configuration Support in the same settings menu. This provides additional compatibility options specifically for DualShock and DualSense controllers.

Many players find that launching Expedition 33 through Big Picture Mode with these settings enabled resolves most controller issues, particularly those related to button mapping and recognition.

Checking for Phantom Controllers

Sometimes Expedition 33 controller issues stem from what’s known as “phantom controllers” – additional controller inputs that Windows recognizes even though they aren’t physically connected. These phantom devices can interfere with your actual controller.

To check for phantom controllers:

  1. Open DS4Windows if you have it installed
  2. Go to Settings and click on GamepadTest
  3. This will show all connected controllers
  4. Disconnect any unused controllers shown in the list

Alternatively, check Device Manager:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager
  2. Expand the Human Interface Devices category
  3. Look for multiple controller entries
  4. Right-click and disable any controllers you’re not using

Phantom controllers often appear when you’ve previously connected multiple controllers to your PC or when using certain peripheral devices that Windows identifies as controllers. Removing these phantom devices can eliminate input conflicts in Expedition 33.

This issue is particularly common for players who frequently switch between different controllers or who use both controller and keyboard/mouse setups.

Reconnecting and Resyncing Controllers

Sometimes the simplest solution works best. Many controller issues in Expedition 33 can be resolved by properly reconnecting or resyncing your controller with your PC.

For wired controllers:

  1. Disconnect the controller completely
  2. Restart your computer
  3. Launch Expedition 33
  4. Reconnect your controller once the game is running

For wireless controllers:

  1. Remove the controller from your Bluetooth devices
  2. Press the sync button on your controller
  3. Add the controller as a new Bluetooth device
  4. Launch the game after successful connection

For Xbox controllers specifically:

  1. Press and hold the Xbox button to turn off the controller
  2. Press it again to turn it back on
  3. If using the wireless adapter, press the sync button on both the adapter and controller

These basic troubleshooting steps can resolve connection issues and input recognition problems that cause your controller to malfunction in Expedition 33. Sometimes the controller’s wireless connection becomes unstable, and reestablishing it fixes most problems.

Fixing Specific Button Input Problems

Some Expedition 33 players report that specific buttons stop working during gameplay, particularly after certain in-game events or boss fights. This issue often affects confirmation buttons or attack buttons.

If you’re experiencing button-specific issues:

  1. Try remapping your controller buttons in Steam’s controller configuration
  2. Check if the button works in other games to rule out hardware damage
  3. Try a different controller if available
  4. Verify the game files in Steam to ensure no corrupt files are causing the issue

For Xbox controllers with specific button problems:

  1. Open the Xbox Accessories app
  2. Test button inputs using the built-in diagnostics tool
  3. Remap buttons if needed

For PlayStation controllers:

  1. Use DS4Windows to check button inputs
  2. Create a custom profile with remapped buttons if necessary

Button-specific issues often indicate either a hardware problem with your controller or a software conflict within the game. By isolating which buttons are affected and testing them in different contexts, you can determine the appropriate fix.

Checking Controller Battery Levels

Low battery levels in wireless controllers can cause various issues in Expedition 33, including input lag, disconnections, and unresponsive buttons. Always ensure your controller is adequately charged.

For Xbox wireless controllers:

  1. Press the Xbox button to view battery level
  2. Replace batteries or connect via USB if the level is low

For PlayStation controllers:

  1. Check battery status in the PlayStation Accessories app or DS4Windows
  2. Use a USB cable if battery level is below 20%

Some controller issues in Expedition 33 only appear when battery levels drop below a certain threshold. The game’s real-time combat elements may be particularly sensitive to power fluctuations in your controller.

If you frequently experience controller issues toward the end of gaming sessions, low battery is likely the culprit. Consider using wired mode or keeping a backup controller charged for longer play sessions.

Waiting for Game Updates

The developers of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 are aware of controller compatibility issues and are working on patches. Sometimes the best solution is to wait for an official fix.

To ensure you receive the latest updates:

  1. Enable automatic updates for the game in Steam
  2. Follow the game’s official social media channels for patch announcements
  3. Check the Steam Community forums for developer responses to controller issues

Recent game updates have already addressed some controller compatibility problems, particularly with PlayStation controllers. The development team continues to work on improving controller support across all platforms.

If you’ve tried all the fixes in this guide without success, consider reporting your specific issue to the developers through official channels. Providing detailed information about your controller model and the exact nature of the problem can help them address it in future updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my PS5 controller show Xbox buttons in Expedition 33?

This happens because Windows primarily supports Xbox controller inputs. When using a PS5 controller, the game displays Xbox button prompts since it’s detecting a generic controller rather than specifically a PlayStation controller. Using DS4Windows won’t change the button prompts but will make your controller function correctly.

Can I use a third-party controller with Expedition 33?

Yes, third-party controllers generally work with Expedition 33, but may require additional configuration. Make sure to update the controller’s drivers and use Steam’s controller configuration options to ensure compatibility. Third-party controllers with Xbox-layout are most likely to work without issues.

Why does my controller work in other games but not Expedition 33?

Expedition 33 uses specific input detection methods that may conflict with certain controller configurations. The game’s combination of turn-based and real-time mechanics requires precise input handling, which can be more sensitive to controller compatibility issues than other games.

How do I fix controller drift in Expedition 33?

Controller drift (when your character moves without touching the analog stick) is usually a hardware issue rather than a game-specific problem. Try cleaning your controller’s analog sticks with compressed air, increasing the deadzone in controller settings, or if persistent, consider replacing the controller.

Will using keyboard and mouse work better than a controller?

Keyboard and mouse controls are fully supported in Expedition 33 and may provide a more consistent experience if you’re experiencing persistent controller issues. The game was designed to work well with both input methods, though some players prefer controllers for the action-based combat sequences.

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