Fix Xbox Controller Bug in Clair Obscur - Not Working or Recognized?

If your Xbox controller isn’t working or being recognized in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, you’re not alone. While the game strongly recommends playing with a controller for the best experience, many PC players are encountering frustrating bugs related to Xbox input devices. Fortunately, there are a few proven fixes you can try.

Below, we’ve outlined the most effective solutions to resolve controller recognition issues in Expedition 33, based on community feedback and troubleshooting standards.


Quick Summary: Fixes for Xbox Controller Not Working in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

  • Unplug and reconnect your Xbox controller

  • Check for duplicate Xbox devices in Windows

  • Disable Steam Input for the game

  • Update your Xbox controller firmware


Fix Xbox Controller Bug in Clair Obscur
1. Unplug and Reconnect Your Xbox Controller

A surprisingly common fix is the classic unplug-replug method. Sometimes Windows fails to initialize your controller correctly when the game starts. Here's what to do:

  • Open Device Manager while your controller is connected.

  • Unplug the USB cable or wireless dongle.

  • Plug it back in and watch for your controller to reappear under Human Interface Devices or Xbox Peripherals.

This refresh can help force Windows to recognize the controller properly.


2. Check for Conflicting Xbox Devices in Device Manager

Some PC setups confuse Windows into recognizing non-controller devices (like gaming keyboards) as Xbox peripherals. This can block your actual controller from working correctly.

Here’s how to check:

  • Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.

  • If you see more than one Xbox device listed, or see your keyboard identified as one, that’s the issue.

  • This is known to happen with certain Corsair, Razer, or Logitech keyboards. Check their support sites for firmware updates or configuration tools to disable Xbox emulation modes.


3. Disable Steam Input for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Steam Input can sometimes interfere with native game controller support. Disabling it for Expedition 33 can restore proper input behavior.

To disable Steam Input:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.

  2. Right-click Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and select Properties.

  3. Navigate to the Controller tab.

  4. In the dropdown, select Disable Steam Input.

  5. Close the properties window and relaunch the game.

This disables Steam’s override and lets the game handle controller support directly.


4. Update Your Xbox Controller Firmware

Your controller might need a firmware update, especially if you haven’t used it on a PC in a while.

To update your Xbox controller:

  1. Download the Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store.

  2. Plug in your Xbox controller.

  3. Open the app and click on the three-dot icon under your controller.

  4. Select Update now if an update is available.

  5. Follow the prompts to complete the update.

After updating, reconnect your controller and try launching the game again.


Still Not Working?

If none of the above fixes work, try these additional steps:

  • Reboot your PC after making controller or Steam Input changes.

  • Test your Xbox controller in another game or app to rule out hardware failure.

  • Check for active discussions or patches on the game’s Steam Community hub or official Discord (if available).

  • Submit a bug report to the developers through Steam or the official website.


Community Tip

If you’re using mods, overlays (like GeForce Experience), or virtual controller software (e.g., DS4Windows), try disabling them temporarily to isolate the issue.


Need More Help?

You’re not alone – the Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 community is actively discussing this issue. Visit the following resources for help or to share your own fix:

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