Dolphin is a popular emulator that allows you to play GameCube and Wii games on your PC Mac Linux or Android device. However if you want to enjoy the full gaming experience you might want to use an Xbox controller instead of a keyboard and mouse. In this article I will show you how to use Xbox controller on Dolphin with easy steps and tips.
Quick answer
To use Xbox controller on Dolphin you need to:
- Connect your Xbox controller to your device via USB or Bluetooth.
- Open Dolphin and click on Controllers.
- Select the controller type (GameCube or Wii) and configure the buttons and sticks.
- Save your settings and launch the game.
How to connect Xbox controller to your device
Before you can use Xbox controller on Dolphin you need to connect it to your device first. Depending on the type of Xbox controller and device you have there are different ways to do this.
| Type of Xbox controller | Connection method |
| Wired Xbox controller | USB |
| Wireless Xbox controller | Bluetooth or Xbox wireless adapter |
Wired Xbox controller
If you have a wired Xbox controller such as the Xbox 360 or Xbox One controller you can simply plug it into a USB port on your device. Your device should automatically recognize and install the driver for the controller.
Wireless Xbox controller
If you have a wireless Xbox controller such as the Xbox One S or Xbox Series X|S controller you can connect it to your device via Bluetooth. To do this you need to:
- Turn on your Xbox controller by pressing the Xbox button.
- Press and hold the pairing button on the back of the controller until the Xbox button flashes.
- On your device go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
- Click on Add Bluetooth or other device and select Bluetooth.
- Choose your Xbox controller from the list of available devices and follow the instructions.
Alternatively you can also use an Xbox wireless adapter to connect your wireless Xbox controller to your device via USB. To do this you need to:
- Plug the Xbox wireless adapter into a USB port on your device.
- Turn on your Xbox controller by pressing the Xbox button.
- Press and hold the pairing button on the adapter until it flashes.
- Press and hold the pairing button on the back of the controller until the Xbox button flashes.
- Wait for the adapter and the controller to pair.
How to configure Xbox controller on Dolphin
After you have connected your Xbox controller to your device you need to configure it on Dolphin. To do this you need to:
- Open Dolphin and click on Controllers.
- Select the type of controller you want to use: GameCube or Wii. For GameCube games you can use up to four controllers. For Wii games you can use up to four Wii Remotes and one GameCube controller.
- For each controller slot select Emulated or Real depending on whether you want to use an emulated or a real controller. If you want to use an emulated controller select XInput as the device and click on Configure.
- In the configuration window map each button and stick of your Xbox controller to the corresponding input of the emulated controller. You can do this by clicking on each input and pressing the button or moving the stick on your Xbox controller. You can also adjust the sensitivity and dead zone of each stick and trigger.
- Save your settings by clicking on OK.
| Controller type | Emulated device | Real device |
| GameCube | XInput | GameCube Adapter |
| Wii | XInput | Wii Remote |
How to launch a game with Xbox controller on Dolphin
After you have configured your Xbox controller on Dolphin you can launch a game with it. To do this you need to:
- Click on Open in Dolphin and browse for the game file (.iso or .gcm) that you want to play.
- Double-click on the game file or click on Play.
- Enjoy playing with your Xbox controller.
Tips and tricks for using Xbox controller on Dolphin
Here are some tips and tricks for using Xbox controller on Dolphin:
- You can switch between fullscreen and windowed mode by pressing Alt + Enter.
- You can save and load states by pressing Shift + F1-F8 and F1-F8 respectively.
- You can take screenshots by pressing F9.
- You can access more options and settings by pressing Esc or clicking on Options in Dolphin.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about using Xbox controller on Dolphin:
Q: Can I use an original Xbox controller on Dolphin?
A: Yes you can use an original Xbox controller on Dolphin if you have an adapter that converts it to USB. However you might need to install a driver for it and configure it manually.
Q: Can I use a PS4 or PS5 controller on Dolphin?
A: Yes you can use a PS4 or PS5 controller on Dolphin if you connect it via USB or Bluetooth. However you might need to install a software like DS4Windows or Steam Input to make it work properly.
Q: Can I use motion controls on Dolphin?
A: Yes you can use motion controls on Dolphin if you have a Wii Remote with a MotionPlus accessory or a Wii Remote Plus. You can also use a smartphone as a motion controller with an app like Dolphin Controller.
Q: Can I use rumble or vibration on Dolphin?
A: Yes you can use rumble or vibration on Dolphin if your Xbox controller supports it. You can enable or disable it in the controller configuration window.
Q: Can I use a keyboard and mouse on Dolphin?
A: Yes you can use a keyboard and mouse on Dolphin if you prefer. You can configure them as an emulated controller in the controller configuration window.
Using Xbox controller on Dolphin is a great way to enhance your gaming experience and enjoy GameCube and Wii games on your device. With this guide you should be able to connect configure and play with your Xbox controller on Dolphin easily. If you have any questions or problems feel free to leave a comment below. Happy gaming!