Steam Deck includes built-in controls designed to work with Steam Input. However, some games fail to detect the controller or ignore inputs during gameplay. This issue can occur in both verified and playable titles. The causes usually involve input profiles, Steam Input settings, or compatibility layers. This guide explains each fix using clear and tested steps about Fix Steam Deck Controller.
Why Steam Deck Controller Stops Working
Steam Deck uses Steam Input to translate controller signals into game commands. If the input profile is missing, disabled, or overridden, the game may not recognize the controller. Desktop Mode, third-party launchers, Proton versions, and per-game settings can also block input detection.
Check Fix Steam Deck Controller
Fix Steam Deck Controller Press the Steam button. Open Settings and select Controller. Confirm that the built-in controller is detected. Test buttons using the input test tool. If inputs register here but not in games, the issue is software-based rather than hardware-based for Fix Steam Deck Controller.
Fix 1 – Enable Steam Input for the Game
Steam Input must be active for most games.
Open the Steam Library. Select the affected game. Open Properties and go to Controller. Set the option to Enable Steam Input. Close the menu and restart the game.
Steam Input converts Deck controls into supported controller formats such as XInput. Disabled Steam Input prevents input translation in many games.
Fix 2 – Select the Correct Controller Layout
Incorrect layouts cause missing or unresponsive inputs.
Press the Steam button while the game is selected. Open Controller Layout. Choose a recommended or official layout. Apply the layout and test the game again.
Games without native controller support rely on community layouts. Selecting the wrong profile results in no input response.
Fix 3 – Reorder Controllers in Game Settings
Controller priority affects detection.
Launch the game. Press the Quick Access button. Open Controller Settings and reorder controllers. Set the Steam Deck controller as Player 1.
Some games default to external controllers or keyboard input, which blocks Deck controls.
Fix 4 – Disable Desktop Configuration in Game Mode
Desktop input profiles override game input.
Open Steam Settings. Navigate to Controller and select Desktop Configuration. Reset the profile to default. Return to Game Mode and relaunch the game.
Desktop profiles are designed for mouse and keyboard use and can interfere with in-game controls.
Fix 5 – Test the Game in Desktop Mode
Desktop Mode helps identify launcher issues.
Switch to Desktop Mode from the Power menu. Launch Steam and start the game. If the controller works here, the issue is related to Game Mode input mapping or overlay behavior.
Third-party launchers often require focus to detect controller input.
Fix 6 – Change Proton Compatibility Version
Proton affects input handling.
Open game Properties. Enable compatibility mode. Select Proton Experimental first. Test older versions such as Proton 8 if input issues persist.
Some Proton builds include controller fixes for specific engines.
Fix 7 – Check External Controller Conflicts
Connected devices override input priority.
Disconnect Bluetooth or USB controllers. Restart Steam Deck. Launch the game again using built-in controls.
Multiple active controllers confuse input assignment in certain games.
FAQs
Q: Why does the controller work in menus but not in gameplay?
A: The game may require a specific input profile or Steam Input enabled.
Q: Does this affect verified games?
A: Yes. Verified status does not prevent input profile conflicts.
Q: Will these fixes work on Steam Deck OLED?
A: Yes. Input systems are identical across all Steam Deck models.
Q: Can reinstalling the game fix controller issues?
A: Reinstallation rarely fixes input problems. Input settings should be checked first.
Conclusion
Fix Steam Deck Controller issues are usually caused by Steam Input settings, incorrect layouts, or compatibility conflicts. Enabling Steam Input, selecting the correct layout, adjusting controller order, and testing Proton versions resolve most problems. These step-by-step fixes restore controller functionality across supported and unsupported games.