How do I use an Xbox controller so i can play some games on Steam?

[Treyzter]

Okay, so I am going to buy multiple indie games on Steam that say they are compatible with an xBox controller. Question is, how exactly do i connect one. Do I just need an xBox 360 controller? I've heard on other forums that I need a reciever thing. Is that true? What do I need to buy to play on Steam with a controller? Do I need to download a software as well? Thanks for anyone trying to help me.

[Kargor]

There is a "XBox 360 gamepad for windows" or something like that. As far as I know (I can't know for sure since I bought one of these -- I don't have an XBox anyway) these are the same units, except they come in a separate package and with a driver disk.

IIRC the software is also available as a download from Microsoft, so if you can get the hardware to be recognized you don't need the disk and thus the "for windows" package.

About the receiver -- if the original XBox 360 controller is wireless, then you'll certainly need a receiver which should be included in the wireless "for windows" package. I got the wired version, though, so I never cared about the receiver.

You might want to check Amazon or other shops of your liking to see if such receivers are offered separately. Personally, I doubt that this is a standard Bluetooth connection, but I could be wrong about that, of course.

[b00bL1ck]

Wired verion of xbox 360 controller doesnt need any other stuff. Just plug in and play.
However wireless version does need receiver. It cost about 10 bucks.
In any case you dont need to install any software to play, it download automaticly when you plug your controller.
With best regards.

[Treyzter]

Publicado originalmente por b00bL1ck:

Wired verion of xbox 360 controller doesnt need any other stuff. Just plug in and play.
However wireless version does need receiver. It cost about 10 bucks.
In any case you dont need to install any software to play, it download automaticly when you plug your controller.
With best regards.

b00bL1ck so if i get a wired controller, I just plug and play? Is it less of a hassle than getting and setting up a wireless controller? And which do you use? Why?

[Marble]

Publicado originalmente por Treyzter864:

b00bL1ck so if i get a wired controller, I just plug and play? Is it less of a hassle than getting and setting up a wireless controller? And which do you use? Why?

Yes, the wired one just plugs in and works. The wireless one is also no hassle if you buy the controller + receiver together.