To use a gamepad in Resident Evil 7 on PC, connect your controller to your computer and ensure the game recognizes it in its settings. This guide covers gamepad setup and troubleshooting so you can get the best control experience, whether your controller connects wirelessly or via USB.
Before you start: what you need to use a gamepad in Resident Evil 7 on PC
Resident Evil 7 on PC supports a controller, but official Capcom or Steam documentation for PC-specific setup is limited. Most modern gamepads that work with Windows, such as Xbox or PlayStation controllers, should be compatible. The game’s controller support is built in, so you typically do not need extra software, though Steam Input may affect how your gamepad behaves. Apple-supported device types include iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro.
Connect your gamepad to the PC
You can connect your gamepad using a wired USB connection or wireless Bluetooth pairing.
- For a wired connection, plug the controller’s USB cable into an available USB port on your PC. Windows should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers. For wired iPhone connection, some models and controllers may need an adapter sold separately.
- For Bluetooth, put the controller into discovery mode using its own instructions (check the controller’s manual for the specific pairing mode). Then open Windows Bluetooth settings, turn on Bluetooth, and select your controller from the list of available devices to pair it. Apple’s Buddy Controller feature at Settings > General > Game Controller > Buddy Controller works with any game that supports game controllers.
Make sure Steam recognizes your gamepad
Many players launch Resident Evil 7 through Steam, and Steam Input can override the game’s built-in controller settings. To check recognition, open Steam and go to Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings. Your gamepad should appear in the list of detected controllers. If it does not, try restarting Steam or reconnecting the controller. You may also want to disable Steam Input for this game if it causes conflicts, though the exact steps depend on your controller model.
Select and customize your gamepad in Resident Evil 7
Launch the game and go to the settings menu. Look for a “Controller” or “Gamepad” option. Select your connected controller from the list. The game usually allows button remapping and sensitivity adjustments, so you can customize the controls to your preference. Save your settings before exiting the menu. Apple’s exact menu path for game controller customization: Settings > General > Game Controller, where you can tap buttons to change or tap Add App to customize for a specific app.
Troubleshooting common gamepad issues in Resident Evil 7
If the game does not detect your controller, try these steps:
- Restart the game with the controller already connected.
- Check Steam Input settings and consider disabling it for Resident Evil 7.
- Try a wired connection instead of wireless, as some controllers are more reliably detected via USB.
- Make sure your controller’s drivers are up to date (most modern controllers are plug-and-play).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any gamepad to play Resident Evil 7 on PC?
Most gamepads that are compatible with Windows, including Xbox and PlayStation controllers, work with the game. Third-party controllers that Windows recognizes should also function.
Do I need to install drivers for my gamepad?
Modern gamepads are typically plug-and-play, so Windows installs the necessary drivers automatically. If your controller requires specific drivers, download them from the manufacturer’s website.
Can I customize the button layout for my gamepad in Resident Evil 7?
Yes, the game’s settings menu includes options to remap buttons and adjust analog stick sensitivity to suit your play style.
Is there an aim assist option for gamepad users in Resident Evil 7?
Yes, the game offers an aim assist setting that can be adjusted in the controls menu to help with targeting enemies.
Are there any specific gamepad settings I should be aware of in Resident Evil 7?
Yes, the aim assist option and analog stick sensitivity experimentation can significantly affect your control experience.
Why does my controller work in other games but not in Resident Evil 7?
This is often caused by Steam Input overriding the game’s controller support. Try disabling Steam Input for Resident Evil 7 in Steam’s controller settings, or launch the game directly from its executable instead of through Steam.
Related reading: How To Use Gamepad With ePSXe and How To Use Gamepad With GMod.
