How To Use A Game Controller As A Mouse In Windows

Using a game controller as a mouse in Windows can significantly enhance your computing experience, especially for those who prefer a more console-like interaction with their PC. This guide will walk you through the various methods to achieve this, highlighting the most recent and effective tools available.

Connecting Your Controller

To start, you need to connect your game controller to your Windows PC. This can be done via a USB cable or a wireless adapter, depending on the type of controller you are using.

Using Steam's Built-in Solution

If you have Steam installed on your PC, you can utilize its built-in controller support to turn your gamepad into a mouse.

1. Open Steam and Go to Settings: Navigate to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings.
2. Select Your Controller: Check the box for your controller type (e.g., Xbox, PlayStation, Switch Pro).
3. Configure Desktop Settings: Go back to Settings > Controller and click on Desktop Configuration. Here, you can customize the button mappings. For example, you can set the right stick to act as a mouse and the triggers to act as mouse clicks.
4. Customize Controls: You can map specific buttons and sticks to various mouse functions. For instance, you can set the right trigger to right-click and the left trigger to left-click.

However, note that this feature will be disabled when you launch a game through Steam, so it's best suited for navigating the desktop and non-gaming applications.

Using JoyToKey

For a more versatile solution that works outside of Steam, you can use JoyToKey.

1. Download and Install JoyToKey: Visit the JoyToKey website to download the software and follow the installation instructions.
2. Configure Joysticks: Open JoyToKey and go to Settings > Configure Joysticks. Select your device from the list.
3. Assign Stick1: Close the dialog box and right-click on Stick1: <-. Click on Edit Button Assignment and navigate to the Mouse tab. Assign the stick to control cursor movement by setting the horizontal slider to negative numbers for left and positive numbers for right.
4. Set Up Mouse Clicks: Assign a mouse click button by going to Edit Button Assignment on the desired button. For example, set button 5 for right-click and button 6 for left-click.
5. Save and Test: Save your configurations and test your settings to ensure everything is working as desired.

Using AntiMicro

Another tool that allows you to use your game controller as a mouse is AntiMicro.

1. Download and Install AntiMicro: Download the AntiMicro application and launch it on your PC.
2. Configure the Controller: In AntiMicro, click on All Sticks and select Mouse Normal from the presets drop-down menu. This will enable the controller to act as a mouse.
3. Assign Mouse Buttons: Go to the L Shoulder and R Shoulder settings, and assign them to left and right mouse clicks, respectively.
4. Adjust Settings: Adjust the sensitivity and other settings as needed, then save your configurations.

Using Gopher360 for Xbox Controllers

If you have an Xbox controller, Gopher360 is a simple and free solution.

1. Download Gopher360: Download the latest version of Gopher360 from its Releases page.
2. Launch Gopher360: Double-click the program to launch it. Minimize the command window that appears.
3. Customize Settings: The left analog stick will control the mouse pointer, the A button will act as a left click, and so on. You can adjust the sensitivity and customize the button layout through Gopher360's config file.

Using InputMapper for PlayStation Controllers

For PlayStation controllers, InputMapper is a suitable option.

1. Download and Install InputMapper: Install the latest release of InputMapper and launch the program.
2. Configure the Controller: When you connect a DualShock controller, you'll be prompted to configure the gamepad. You can create a profile that maps the controller to its Xbox 360 equivalents or as a mouse and keyboard.
3. Customize Mappings: Customize the button mappings and other tweaks from the program's main window. The DualShock's touchpad can be set to move the cursor, and tapping it can be set to click the mouse.

Additional Tools and Considerations

• Controller Companion: This is a more polished and customizable option, though it requires a purchase. It offers advanced features for mapping controller inputs to mouse and keyboard functions.
• Xbox Mouse: This is a native binary utility available on the Microsoft Store that allows you to control your PC with an Xbox controller. It offers detailed mappings for various functions, including mouse movement and clicks.

By following these steps, you can effectively use your game controller as a mouse in Windows, enhancing your computing experience and providing greater flexibility in how you interact with your PC.