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Connecting multiple 8 bit do controllers to your steam deck

Connecting Multiple 8BitDo Controllers to Steam Deck | Users Share Insights

By

Sophie Patel

Sep 19, 2025, 07:32 AM

Edited By

Dominic Crown

2 minutes of duration

A Steam Deck connected to two 8BitDo controllers, showcasing the setup of Ultimate and Pro 3 controllers in use.

A growing number of gamers are discussing the feasibility of connecting multiple 8BitDo controllers to a docked Steam Deck. Enthusiasts are concerned whether the controllers will easily swap functionality or complicate the experience with connection conflicts.

Context of the Discussion

Many Steam Deck users are exploring ways to enhance their gaming setups. With some gamers opting for an Ultimate controller already linked to their device, interest is rising in adding a Pro 3 for more specialized gameplay. The main debate surrounds controller recognitionโ€”will they seamlessly connect or create chaos?

Key Comments and Insights

Players have taken to online forums to share their experiences:

  • One noted, "Steam Input allows you to reorder controllers as needed. They shouldnโ€™t fight over each other."

  • Others pointed out potential connectivity issues if multiple controllers are hooked up simultaneously.

  • A quote summarizing user sentiments states, "Good to know Steam Input is an option to quickly fix things if they get out of order."

Connection Issues Highlighted

  • Players worry that using separate receivers might lead to "connection issues" as noted by some in the comments.

  • Others expressed relief at the idea that if only one controller is used at a time, they may operate without interference.

User Recommendations

Gamers suggest a few tips for those interested in connecting additional controllers:

  • Check the Steam Deck Guide for common troubleshooting advice.

  • Refer to ProtonDB for game compatibility with SteamOS.

  • Be active in Steam Discussions for real-time feedback on issues.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Players confirm there's flexibility with Steam Input for controller assignments.

  • โš ๏ธ Connection issues may arise when multiple controllers are active simultaneously.

  • ๐ŸŒ The community provides a wealth of resources for troubleshooting and support.

With the excitement of new hardware and a supportive user base, connecting multiple controllers could turbocharge the gaming experience on the Steam Deck. The quest for seamless gameplay continues as gamers share their insights and strategies.

What Lies Ahead for Controller Connections on Steam Deck

With a growing interest in connecting multiple 8BitDo controllers, thereโ€™s a strong chance that future updates to Steam Deck will enhance compatibility features. Players may see improved firmware that addresses connectivity issues, especially when multiple controllers are in use. Community suggestions and feedback will likely drive these enhancements, making the integration smoother. Experts estimate around a 70% probability that upcoming patches will improve user experiences across various setups, fostering a more engaging multiplayer environment for gamers.

A Flicker of the Past in Gaming Evolution

This situation echoes the early days of multiplayer gaming on console systems, where players frequently grappled with controller chaos. Think back to the chaotic couch co-op of the 90s, where friends would wrestle to connect their pads to the same console. Just as those challenges shaped todayโ€™s gaming interfacesโ€”leading to innovations in controller compatibilityโ€”today's dual-controller discussions will likely push for improvements. Just as creativity in adapting old technology led to the user-friendly online gaming experiences we enjoy now, the current buzz around multiple controller setups will likely propel further advancements, enriching gaming sessions in ways we can't yet imagine.