If you’re a racing fan who prefers the feel of a PlayStation controller, you’re definitely not alone. Many PC gamers find the DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers more comfortable and responsive compared to traditional keyboard controls or even Xbox controllers. The challenge, however, is that games like Forza Horizon 5 are primarily optimized for Xbox controllers, which means PlayStation controllers are not natively supported in the same seamless way.
That said, don’t worry. With the right setup, you can absolutely use your PS4 or PS5 controller to enjoy smooth, immersive gameplay in Forza Horizon 5 on PC. In fact, once configured properly, the experience can feel just as good, if not better, depending on your preferences.
In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through everything step by step, from the requirements to the exact setup process.
Requirements for Using a PS4 or PS5 Controller on PC
Let’s quickly go over what you’ll need to make this work smoothly. Having everything ready upfront will save you time and frustration later.
First, you’ll need a PlayStation controller, either a DualShock 4 (PS4) or a DualSense (PS5). Both work well, but the DualSense may require slightly more configuration depending on your setup.
Next, ensure your PC is running a compatible version of Windows, ideally Windows 10 or Windows 11. These versions handle controller drivers and Bluetooth connections more efficiently.
You’ll also need a way to connect your controller. This can be done either through a USB cable or via Bluetooth. A wired connection is generally easier and more stable, while Bluetooth gives you more freedom of movement.
Another important requirement is Steam, even if you didn’t purchase Forza Horizon 5 through it. Steam’s controller support is incredibly useful because it can emulate an Xbox controller, which Forza Horizon 5 recognizes perfectly.
Alternatively, you can use software like DS4Windows, which is specifically designed to make PlayStation controllers behave like Xbox controllers on PC.
Finally, make sure your game, Forza Horizon 5, is properly installed and updated, whether you got it from the Microsoft Store, the Xbox app, or Steam.
How to Use PlayStation Controller on Forza Horizon 5 PC (PS4 & PS5)?
To use a PlayStation controller in Forza Horizon 5 on PC, connect your DualShock 4 or DualSense via USB or Bluetooth, then use Steam or DS4Windows to emulate an Xbox controller so the game can recognize and map inputs correctly.
Now let’s break everything down into clear, easy-to-follow steps so you can get your controller working without confusion.
Step 1: Connect Your PlayStation Controller to Your PC
The first thing you need to do is physically connect your controller to your PC. This is the foundation of the entire setup, so getting it right is crucial.
If you’re going for a wired connection, simply plug your controller into your PC using a USB cable. Windows should automatically detect it and install the necessary drivers. This method is straightforward and usually works without any hiccups.
If you prefer a wireless setup, turn on Bluetooth on your PC. Then, put your controller into pairing mode. For a DualShock 4, press and hold the ‘PS button’ and ‘Share button’ together until the light starts blinking. For a DualSense, hold the ‘PS button’ and ‘Create button’ until the light flashes blue.
Once your controller appears in the Bluetooth device list on your PC, select it to pair. After pairing, your controller should be connected and ready for the next step.
At this point, your PC recognizes the controller, but Forza Horizon 5 still might not, which is why we move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Use Steam to Enable PlayStation Controller Support
Even if you didn’t buy Forza Horizon 5 on Steam, you can still use Steam’s controller configuration feature to make your PlayStation controller compatible.
Start by opening Steam and going into ‘Settings’. From there, navigate to the ‘Controller’ section and click on ‘General Controller Settings’. Here, enable PlayStation Configuration Support. This allows Steam to recognize your controller and translate its inputs into something games like Forza Horizon 5 can understand.
Next, you’ll need to add Forza Horizon 5 to your Steam library as a non-Steam game if it isn’t already there. Go to your Steam library, click on ‘Add a Game’, and choose ‘Add a Non-Steam Game’. Then locate and add Forza Horizon 5.
Once added, launch the game through Steam. Steam will automatically apply its controller configuration, effectively making your PlayStation controller behave like an Xbox controller.
This method is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to get everything working without extra software.
Step 3: Use DS4Windows for Advanced Compatibility
If you’re not using Steam or prefer more control over your controller settings, DS4Windows is an excellent alternative.
Start by downloading and installing DS4Windows from its official website. Once installed, open the program and connect your controller. DS4Windows will detect your controller and create a virtual Xbox controller profile.
This is important because Forza Horizon 5 is designed to work seamlessly with Xbox controllers. By emulating one, DS4Windows ensures that your inputs are recognized correctly.
Within DS4Windows, you can also customize your controls, adjust sensitivity, and even tweak advanced features like dead zones and vibration.
Make sure to keep DS4Windows running in the background while playing. Once it’s active, launch Forza Horizon 5, and your controller should work perfectly.
Step 4: Configure Controller Settings in Forza Horizon 5
After setting up Steam or DS4Windows, it’s time to fine-tune your controller inside the game.
Launch Forza Horizon 5 and go to the ‘Settings’ menu, then navigate to ‘Controls’. Here, you should see your controller recognized as an Xbox controller.
You can now adjust button mappings, steering sensitivity, braking responsiveness, and more. This step is important because even though your controller is working, the default settings may not feel ideal.
Take a few minutes to test different configurations and find what feels comfortable. For example, you might want to increase steering sensitivity for sharper turns or adjust trigger dead zones for better acceleration control.
This step is where you truly personalize your experience.
Faqs
Can I use a PS5 DualSense controller on Forza Horizon 5 PC?
Yes, you can use a DualSense controller. However, you’ll need Steam or DS4Windows to emulate Xbox input since native support is limited.
Is Bluetooth or USB better for playing Forza Horizon 5?
USB is generally more stable and has lower latency, while Bluetooth offers convenience. If you experience lag, switching to USB is recommended.
Do I need Steam if I already have DS4Windows?
No, you don’t need both. DS4Windows can handle everything on its own. Using both together may cause conflicts.
Why does my controller show as an Xbox controller in the game?
This is intentional. Tools like Steam and DS4Windows emulate an Xbox controller because Forza Horizon 5 is designed to work with it.
Can I customize controls for my PlayStation controller?
Yes, you can customize controls both in-game and through DS4Windows or Steam settings.
Does haptic feedback work on DualSense in Forza Horizon 5?
Not fully. Advanced features like adaptive triggers and haptics are not natively supported on PC for this game.