If you own a PS4 or a PS5 controller, you can use it to play older PC games. While the controller is not natively supported for these older titles, there are several workarounds you can use to make your PS4 or PS5 controller work on your PC.

Here’s how to use your PS4 or PS5 controller with older PC games:

Step 1: Download DS4Windows

DS4Windows is a free, open-source program that allows your PC to recognize and use your PS4 or PS5 controller as a native Xbox 360 controller. Download and install DS4Windows from their official website.

Step 2: Connect your controller to your PC

Connect your PS4 or PS5 controller to your PC using a micro-USB cable. If you’re using a PS4 controller, press and hold the PlayStation button and Share button simultaneously until the light bar starts flashing. This indicates that the controller is in pairing mode. If you’re using a PS5 controller, press and hold the PlayStation button and the Create button to enter pairing mode.

Step 3: Configure DS4Windows

Once you’ve connected your controller, open DS4Windows. The program will automatically detect your controller and display a notification in the bottom right-hand corner of your screen.

Click on the notification to open the DS4Windows control panel. Here, you can customize various settings, including the controller’s button layout, vibration intensity, and touchpad sensitivity.

Step 4: Launch your game

DS4Windows should automatically configure your controller to work with most older PC games. However, if your game doesn’t recognize the PS4 or PS5 controller, try using a third-party program like JoyToKey or Xpadder to map the controller’s buttons to keyboard keys.

Using these programs, you can map your controller’s buttons to various keyboard inputs. For example, you can map the Square button to the “E” key or the X button to the spacebar.

Conclusion

Using your PS4 or PS5 controller on older PC games can be a great way to experience classic titles with a more modern controller. While the process may seem daunting at first, it’s actually relatively simple with the help of DS4Windows and other third-party programs. All you need is a few minutes of setup time, and you’ll be gaming with your PS4 or PS5 controller in no time!