
Fix Ghost of Tsushima Not Detecting PS5 Controller on Steam
You’re all set for an epic adventure through feudal Japan. You’ve got your shiny PS5 controller, Steam is open, and Ghost of Tsushima is ready to roll. But wait—your controller isn’t working! Don’t rage quit just yet. This guide will show you how to fix the “PS5 controller not detected” issue on Steam. Let’s go samurai mode on this problem!
1. Start with the basics
Before diving into tech settings, make sure your controller is connected properly.
- USB connection: Plug it directly into your PC using a USB-C cable.
- Bluetooth: Hold the PS + Create buttons until the light bar flashes. Then pair it via your PC’s Bluetooth settings.
Sometimes it really can be that simple!

2. Update everything
Old software can be a party pooper. Make sure everything is up to date:
- Steam: Click Steam > Check for Steam Client Updates.
- Controller firmware: Use the PlayStation app on PC to update your DualSense.
- Windows: Run Windows Update just to be sure.
Fresh code, fewer problems!
3. Turn on PlayStation Configuration Support
In Steam, you need to let it know you’re using a PS5 controller.
Here’s how:
- Open Steam and go to Settings.
- Select Controller from the sidebar.
- Click General Controller Settings.
- Check the box for PlayStation Configuration Support.
This lets Steam map the controls correctly.
4. Add Ghost of Tsushima as a Non-Steam Game
If Steam isn’t recognizing the controller properly, try this trick.
- Click Games on the top menu in Steam.
- Select Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library.
- Find Ghost of Tsushima and add it.
- Now launch it from your Steam library.
This can make Steam handle the controller input better.
5. Use Big Picture Mode
Big Picture Mode is Steam’s full-screen interface made for controllers.
Try this:
- Click the Big Picture Mode icon in the top-right of Steam.
- Navigate to your game library.
- Launch Ghost of Tsushima from there.

This mode often helps fix input issues because it’s optimized for console-style play.
6. Disable Steam Input for the Game
Steam Input sometimes causes problems instead of solving them.
To disable it:
- Right-click Ghost of Tsushima in your library.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Controller tab.
- Find the dropdown that says Use Default Settings.
- Change it to Disable Steam Input.
Some players find this makes the PS5 controller work instantly!
7. Try DS4Windows (optional)
If nothing has worked so far, DS4Windows can help. It tricks your PC into thinking the PS5 controller is an Xbox controller.
- Download DS4Windows (get it from the official GitHub page).
- Install the app and connect your controller.
- It should now be recognized in Steam and games.
It’s a workaround, but it gets the job done.
Wrap-up: Ride into battle!
With your controller finally working, it’s time to dive back into Ghost of Tsushima. Whether you’re a stealthy assassin or a head-on warrior, smooth controls make all the difference.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Check basic connections
- Enable PlayStation support in Steam
- Try Big Picture Mode
- Disable Steam Input if needed
- Use DS4Windows as a last resort
Now go slice and dice with honor, warrior. Your adventure awaits!