Many players find the DualShock 4 controller's joystick less than ideal for navigating the menus and using the quick-select commands in the Steam version of Final Fantasy VII Remake. This guide will walk you through configuring DS4Windows to prioritize the D-pad for this purpose, offering a more comfortable and responsive experience.
Why Use the D-Pad in FF7 Remake?
The D-pad provides a more precise and tactile experience for directional inputs compared to the analog stick. This is particularly beneficial in Final Fantasy VII Remake where precise movements in menus and quick-select actions are crucial. Using the D-pad can significantly enhance gameplay, especially during hectic battles.
Setting Up DS4Windows for FF7 Remake D-Pad Control
This process involves several steps within the DS4Windows application. Make sure you have the latest version of DS4Windows installed and your DualShock 4 connected.
Step 1: Installing and Launching DS4Windows
Download and install DS4Windows from a reputable source. Ensure you've followed the installation instructions correctly. Launch the application after installation.
Step 2: Setting up the Controller
In the DS4Windows main window, you should see your connected DualShock 4 controller. Click on the "Settings" button.
Step 3: The "Profiles" Tab
Within the Settings menu, navigate to the "Profiles" tab. Here, you can create a new profile specifically for Final Fantasy VII Remake. Click "New" to create one. Give it a descriptive name like "FF7 Remake D-pad Priority."
Step 4: Advanced Settings – Key Focus
The magic happens in the "Advanced Settings" section. Under the "XInput Wrapper" tab, you'll find options to remap controls. While many guides suggest tweaking specific button mappings, for optimal D-pad functionality in FF7 Remake, focus on these settings:
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Disable the right joystick completely (or map it to something else): This prevents accidental inputs from the right stick interfering with the D-pad controls within the game. Consider mapping the right stick to less frequently used features to maintain functionality.
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Prioritize D-pad Input: This setting, if available, may force the game to use the D-pad input over other inputs. The specific method will vary by the version of DS4Windows, so carefully review the available options within the software.
Step 5: Testing Your Configuration
Save your profile. Launch Final Fantasy VII Remake on Steam. Test your D-pad controls thoroughly within the menus and during gameplay to verify that everything is functioning as intended. If you encounter any issues, revisit the configuration settings, paying close attention to possible input conflicts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- D-pad not working: Ensure your D-pad is correctly mapped in the DS4Windows profile. Verify that no other input is conflicting with the D-pad's functionality.
- Game not recognizing the D-pad: Check the game's controller settings and ensure that it's correctly configured to use an Xbox 360 controller (as DS4Windows emulates this).
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can significantly enhance your Final Fantasy VII Remake experience on Steam by prioritizing the DualShock 4 D-pad. Remember to save your custom profile for future use. Happy gaming!
Keywords: DS4Windows, Final Fantasy VII Remake, FF7 Remake, Steam, DualShock 4, D-pad, joystick, controller, configuration, gaming, guide, tutorial, setup, troubleshooting, Xbox 360 controller emulation.
