Xbox Series S controller suddenly freaking out on specific conditions.

Bluelinkbr · May 12, 2022

My controller has been freaking out in very specific parts of certain games. When I am playing Dirt 5 every once in a while in the "race select" screen the controller suddenly stop recognizing any buttons and forcing the analog stick to the last direction I moved, then after a few seconds it disconnects. I thought it was an issue with the game, but then I started playing Psychonauts 2 and it presented the exact same issue on the main lobby of the Motherlobe section of the game, but this time it doesn't disconnect and I have to remove the batteries to make it stop (since then I have been playing using a cable without batteries so when it freaks out it is easier to disconnect, just unplug the cable and plug again).

I have played over a dozen games on my Series S so far, and this issue ONLY happens on those two specific occasions (I can play those games just fine when I am not on those parts of it), does anyone knows what could possibly be going on? I tried updating my controller but the issue is still happening.

:)

Lucas Lauer

Hello, Bluelinkbr. Thanks for reaching out! My name is Lucas, and I'm an Independent Advisor and a Microsoft user just like you. I'll be happy to assist you today.

Since you already updated your controller, I'd first try to uninstall the games that are having this issue with the controller.

Then, try to perform a power reset on your console:

Power Reset:

1. If you have an external HD, please unplug it and let it unplugged for testing purposes.

2. Turn off your console by holding the Xbox button on the front of the console for approximately 10 seconds. The console will turn off.

3. Unplug all the cables (power, HDMI, etc..) and wait 5 minutes.

4. After 5 minutes, plug all the cables in again (except for the external HD) and then turn your console back on by pressing the Xbox button on the console.

After that, clean local saved games:

Press the Xbox Button > System > Settings > System > Storage > Clear local saved games (Note: Just do this if your saves are saved in the cloud, else they'll be lost)

Now, try to install and play the games again and see if the controller works fine with them.

John P_14

Hi and thanks for reaching out. I hope you’re doing well. I'm an Independent Advisor and a Microsoft user like you and I'll be happy to help you.

Xbox wireless controllers, including the latest Xbox Wireless Controllers included with the Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, are compatible with the Xbox Series S. In addition, some older Xbox One wireless controllers work with the Xbox Series S. As for third-party wireless controllers, the compatibility depends on the specific controller and whether it is designed to work with the Xbox wireless protocol. The Ant eSports controller you mentioned appears to be a third-party controller designed for PC gaming, and it may not be compatible with the Xbox Series S.

Jeff_698

Hi. The controller I have is "PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S". There is a section for PowerA in verified controllers. It use to work for me just fine for over a year. I am not sure why suddenly it is not working. Any ideas?

SweetMonet

Hi, Zack! Thank you for reaching out to Xbox-Community. I understand you're looking to see if the deadzone is built-in on Xbox standard controllers specifically Xbox Series S controller.

Yes, it is built-in, Zack. Most modern controllers have dead Zone built-in, including PlayStation controllers and even for Xbox one.

Thank you!

SammyVS

I'm Samy an independent advisor and I'll be helping you

How are you, mate?

Does this controller say it works specifically with the Xbox Series S/X? This controller will also not work if something is in the console path.

Xbox Series S controller suddenly freaking out on specific conditions.