
Picture this: It’s a Friday night, and you’re finally settling in for some much-needed relaxation. You’ve got snacks, your favorite game is loaded, and then… nothing. Your PS5 controller isn’t working in the game. That’s exactly what happened to us a few weeks ago. Frustration doesn’t even begin to describe it. But after some trial and error, we not only fixed the issue but also learned a lot in the process. Here’s our story and a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot if you’re facing the same problem.
Why Isn’t My PS5 Controller Working in Game?
Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why this might happen. Based on our experience, here are the most common reasons:
1. Outdated Firmware
Sony frequently updates the PS5 controller’s firmware to improve performance and compatibility. If your controller’s firmware is outdated, it might not function properly with newer games or software updates.
2. Connection Glitches
The connection between your controller and the PS5 can sometimes falter due to Bluetooth interference, low battery levels, or even a glitch in the console’s software. If you’re using a USB cable, a loose or damaged cable might also be the culprit.
3. Game-Specific Settings
Some games have unique control configurations or settings that may conflict with your PS5 controller. For instance, games that support multiple input devices (like a keyboard and mouse) might not automatically detect your controller.
4. Physical Wear and Tear
Over time, regular use can lead to hardware issues. Damage to buttons, analog sticks, or the Bluetooth module can prevent the controller from working properly.
Understanding these potential causes is the first step in resolving the issue. Let’s move on to the solutions that worked for us.
How We Fixed Our PS5 Controller Issues
Here’s what we did to get our controller back in action:
1. Update the Firmware
Our first step was ensuring the controller had the latest firmware. Here’s how you can do it:
- Connect the Controller: Use a USB cable to connect the controller to your PS5.
- Access Settings: Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
- Check for Updates: Select the option to check for controller updates.
- Follow Prompts: Install the update if one is available.
This quick step resolved compatibility issues and improved responsiveness. Regularly checking for updates is a good habit to avoid future hiccups.
2. Reconnect the Controller
Sometimes, a simple reconnection can work wonders. Here’s what we did:
- Power Down: Turn off the PS5 completely and unplug it from the power source.
- Wait: Leave it unplugged for at least 5 minutes.
- Reconnect: Plug the console back in and restart it.
- Pair the Controller: Press the PS button on the controller to reconnect it.
This process can clear temporary glitches and reset the connection.
3. Tweak Game Settings
When our controller stopped working in a specific game, we discovered the issue was due to game settings. Here’s how to check:
- Open Settings: Access the game’s settings menu.
- Check Controller Configuration: Ensure the PS5 controller is set as the primary input device.
- Reset to Default: If the settings looked unusual, we reset them to their default state.
Games with multiple input options, like a keyboard and mouse, may not automatically recognize the controller. Adjusting these settings resolved the issue for us.
4. Inspect for Physical Damage
While troubleshooting, we also checked our controller for physical damage. Here’s what to look for:
- Examine the Controller: Look for visible signs of wear, such as damaged buttons or analog sticks.
- Test Another Controller: If possible, try using a different PS5 controller. If the second one works, it confirms the issue lies with the original controller.
In our case, our controller was fine, but if yours isn’t, you might need to repair or replace it.
5. Reset the Controller
When nothing else worked, a hard reset saved the day. Here’s how:
- Turn Off the Console: Power down the PS5.
- Locate the Reset Button: Find the small hole on the back of the controller, near the L2 button.
- Press and Hold: Use a pin to press and hold the reset button for about 5 seconds.
- Reconnect: Use a USB cable to pair the controller with the console again.
This step restored the controller to factory settings and resolved any software-related issues.
Additional Tips
- Charge Your Controller: Low battery levels can sometimes cause unresponsiveness. Make sure your controller is fully charged.
- Use a Different USB Cable: If you’re using a wired connection, a faulty cable might be the issue. Switch to another cable to test.
- Avoid Bluetooth Interference: Keep other devices that use Bluetooth away from your PS5 to minimize signal interference.
When to Seek Professional Help
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to reach out to Sony Support or a professional repair service. We’ve had good experiences with Sony’s customer service in the past. They can help diagnose complex issues and guide you on next steps, whether it’s a repair or replacement.
Keep Gaming
Dealing with a PS5 controller that’s not working in game can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you just want to relax and enjoy your favorite titles. However, by following these steps, we were able to troubleshoot and resolve the issue quickly. From updating firmware to resetting the controller, these solutions cover a wide range of potential problems.
We hope this guide helps you get your controller back in action. If it does, let us know! After all, the gaming community thrives on sharing tips and tricks to enhance everyone’s experience. Happy gaming!