Quantcast
720°
Submitted by TheMrFraz 362d ago | article

How To Use a PlayStation 3 Controller As A PC Gamepad

The legendary Steam Summer Sale is coming soon. Prepare yourself by setting up your favorite PS3 controller as a PC gamepad by following these quick and easy steps! (PC, PS3, Tech)

« 1 2 »
dc1  +   362d ago
This is how I play my PC games through Steam.
Highly recommend it!!
killcycle  +   362d ago
i've been doing this for 4 years.
How is this news!?
dc1  +   362d ago
So have I.
However, as you may know; There are always newcomers. In fact, Motionjoy was around a year or two before I jumped on.

Miller lite and Budweiser still advertise ... because if they didn't there respective products would fade.

This is a good thing.
ThanatosDMC  +   362d ago
Yup, really old. The only thing people need to fix is to switch the shoulder buttons. I played Fallout New Vegas and some other games with MotionJoy years ago.
#1.1.2 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(0) | Disagree(2) | Report
Hatmantc  +   362d ago
I'm thankful that this was posted so I don't have to go out and search for this info.. Wanted to play dcuo on my laptop since my PS3 ylod on me
ItsMeAgain  +   362d ago
Don't be mean, mate. You know there are ppl who aren't everyday experimenting like you and me. Maybe this could give them a hint or hopefully just do the job for them.
llMurcielagoll  +   362d ago
It may not be news to you... But it is to me, I had a feeling that its doable, however never thought of investigating the matter lol. Gonna read this article and find out how.
#1.1.5 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(1) | Disagree(1) | Report
kriauciuniux  +   362d ago
Me to but motion joy was a real joy when I found it, basicaly because you can turn xbox 360 emulation, so no need for setting up controlls for games.
Vettur  +   362d ago
It's not. It's an article ;)
Montrealien  +   362d ago
I just plug in my wired xbox controller, no need to config and most games are already mapped for it. That being said, if all you have is a PS3, this is a great guide.
NiKK_419  +   362d ago
Yep. I've been using it for emulators for years now. I haven't played many PC games with it, though. The only ones I can think of are Skyrim, Arkham Asylum/City, and Lego Batman with my girlfriend.
topgun33  +   362d ago
Have you tried using your ps3 controller for SWTOR? I have the game, but I tried with the mouse and keyboard but have failed miserably. I am not used to playing computer games. I am also hoping that one day they will make this ftp.
Snookies12  +   362d ago
Oh yeah, Motionjoy... I use this all the time for emulators and PC games. Works like a charm!
SuperLupe  +   362d ago
i remember trying motionjoy a couple of times, never worked.
#2.1 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(6) | Disagree(5) | Report | Reply
AnimeAvenger  +   362d ago
I tried it with left 4 Dead, one of the joysticks didn't work. However the Xbox controller works right away like a charm.
iXenon  +   362d ago
I was actually using MotionJoy this morning. It's a little tricky, but it works perfectly fine
Solid_Snake37  +   362d ago
make sure to set it to Xbox 360 controller emulator
Autodidactdystopia  +   362d ago
Motionjoy is not recommended for Retards or for those under the age of 5.

side effects may include: non functional software, uncontrollable games, confusion.

motionjoy works fine. lol :)

edit: meaning... if you're retarded,- you will have problems.
#2.1.4 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(1) | Disagree(1) | Report
tee_bag242  +   362d ago
Lol - I been using this an Emulating Wii. Its pretty funny playing 2 Player New Super Mario Bros with a xbox 360 and PS3 pad. Ain't no one gonna call me fan boy!
#2.2 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(0) | Disagree(1) | Report | Reply
Kurylo3d  +   362d ago
i just plug up a 360 controller via usb.. just works automatically.
jsslifelike  +   362d ago
The wireless USB dongle is soooo much nicer. I just love it together with a kickass HTPC on a 47" monitor. Yummy.
trancefreak  +   362d ago
I have the new PC usb usb dongle black xbox controller. Works great for non fps games for me.
Snookies12  +   362d ago
Yeah, but to those who don't have a 360 controller, this is an awesome solution. I could have gone out and bought one, but this saved me around 35 bucks when I discovered I could just use my PS3 controller.
allyc4t  +   362d ago
How to use a USB Xbox 360 gamepad on a PC: Just plug it in.
MetalProxy  +   362d ago
Wow thats amazing!!!! To bad I dont like the 360 gamepad. So I will follow some quick and easy steps to use the gamepad I prefer.
allyc4t  +   362d ago
I have to agree with you. It's pretty awesome. Although I'd never use a gamepad over the good old keyboard and mouse unless I was playing a racing game.
bishop-br  +   362d ago
@allyc4t

That's not what he said, but nice spin, goes well with your avatar.
WitWolfy  +   362d ago
OR download and use Xpadder. Also a excellent program.
Smashbro29  +   362d ago
And put up with THAT dpad? Hell no.

Use motioninjoy in 360 mode. Best of both worlds!
#4.3 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(1) | Disagree(1) | Report | Reply
Hellsvacancy  +   362d ago
I tried using this to play Half Life 2, but i could figure out how to use the analog sticks, such a noob i know, but if someone helps me, i wont be

Would a PS3 controller work with StarCraft 2?

Edit: I knew i was gonna get that, i plug my laptop into my awesome tv to play SC2, i then use a wireless mouse (it isnt the greatest)

I cant be bothered to buy a keyboard just to play one game, you dont even need a keyboard to play SC2 its the only game i play on my pc (laptop)
#5 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(3) | Disagree(6) | Report | Reply
Mythicninja  +   362d ago
You can't be serious- using an analog stick to play an RTS? You'll be crushed. Mouse + keyboard is the only way for that genre
MAJ0R  +   362d ago
Gamepad + StarCraft 2?

Yikes.
STONEY4  +   362d ago
"you dont even need a keyboard to play SC2"

lolwut

Anyways, in Motionjoy/DS3 Tool, you have to set it to "Xbox 360 controller emulator" for the analogue sticks to work. The "Playstation 3" mode, by default, has analogue sticks turned off. Although you can change that, it's better to stick with 360 mode since it has better compatibility with games.

I also suggest you calibrate the analogue sticks and triggers by first enabling the driver, going to Devices and Printers, right click Playstation 3 Controller and click Game Controller Settings.
#5.3 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(2) | Disagree(0) | Report | Reply
Bloodraid  +   362d ago
Well, technically you don't, you'll just be stuck in cardboard league for the rest of your days.
Mythicninja  +   362d ago
Here's how:
1) throw away the playstation controller
2) plug in a 360 controller into the USB port. The drivers will be downloaded automatically within a minute or two
admiralthrawn87  +   362d ago
so much better to just plug in the 360 controller. its a better controller anyways. But you better not say anything about that on this site or you'll get your bubbles taken away. I commented negatively on the direction of Uncharted 3 once and both my bubbles disappeared. Wasn't even trolling.

to the disagree - you are saying its not true i got my bubbles taken from suggesting uncharted 3 was going too over the top? this site needs more regulations so that fanboys can't have any control over others on here

i don't comment much so i didn't take the time to make a new account.
#6.1 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(7) | Disagree(31) | Report | Reply
Mythicninja  +   362d ago
And if they take my bubbles because I favor a microsoft product in this particular case over a sony one I'll.......*gasp* make a new account?
ShAkKa  +   362d ago
@admiralthrawn87 You sound bitter, let me give you a bubble point so you can stop crying.
oNIXo  +   362d ago
I disagreed because I don't think the 360 controller is better. The d-pad sucks, and I don't use a controller to play new games, just older games via emulation. In that regard the 360 controller is horrible when used to play older games.
#6.1.3 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(4) | Disagree(4) | Report
MrDead  +   362d ago
So you’re saying buy a new controller instead of downloading a free easy to use program??
AgreeFairy  +   362d ago
Why would I use an inferior 360 controller when I can use the superior PS3 controller? Dualshock has always been the best and it still is which is why the hardly change it.
vallencer  +   362d ago
In all fairness they hardly change the xbox controller as well.
WrAiTh Sp3cTr3  +   362d ago
AgreeFairy, you're joking right? Because you got me laughing...
Vettur  +   362d ago
Sorry, but in this case I have to disagree. I have a ps3 myself, but I must admit that the xbox 360 controller is much better. ps3 controllers get's broken way too easy as well.
TheLeapist  +   362d ago | Well said
You forgot the most problematic step that takes place between one and two.

1.5) Now go out and waste $30+ bucks on a controller for a console you don't even own because apparently you're too goddamn lazy or stupid to follow a few easy steps to get your dualshock working with your PC.

Try and curb your fanboyism before posting next time. You might actually prevent yourself from looking like an idiot.
Caffo01  +   362d ago
i couldn't resist to login at work just to bubble you up lol
TheLeapist  +   362d ago
@Caffo01
Haha. Well thank you sir.
dredgewalker  +   362d ago
Lol, yeah it's free and I've used it for my emulators. Bubbles for a good and non fanboyish answer.
BraveToaster  +   362d ago
Yes, and then one of your joysticks will get stuck slightly in on spot all the time. I love when I put the controller down and my character starts to slowly move to the left.
Xbox 360 controllers are terrible quality.
#6.5 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(3) | Disagree(4) | Report | Reply
MrDead  +   362d ago
I use DS3 Tool for San Andreas. I've allocated the buttons to match the PS2 version.
iXenon  +   362d ago
Funny that you mention that. I'm looking up PS2 controls for the game right now so I can match them :3
neogeo  +   362d ago
I got to agree the 360 pad works better.
dc1  +   362d ago
@neogeo
How do you know? Just want to know your thoughts on this.

I have both and my preference is the PS3 Blue Tooth pad for wireless connectivity.

The signal is seamless and has less dead spots (none at all).
Silly gameAr  +   362d ago
But, some people don't have a 360 controller. Good for you though.
PirateThom  +   362d ago
I don't have a USB 360 controller, I do have a PS3 controller and USB cable...

Do you see why this makes more sense since it's free?
shossofe  +   362d ago
Well, not free since you did buy the PS3 controller and USB cable...maybe. *No additional costs*
PirateThom  +   362d ago
Well, it came with my PS3, but yeah, no additional costs.
Mythicninja  +   362d ago
I can definitely see, and in your position, I'd do the same thing. I came strictly from PC gaming, but certain games are just more fun on gamepad....so I bought the 360 controller on amazon since I had no consoles to cannibalize the part from.
nukeitall  +   362d ago
One thing that isn't accounted for sometimes is the fact that MotionJoy isn't always compatible with your games.

The Xbox 360 controller is far more likely to be compatible. So your mileage may vary.
#9.3 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(3) | Disagree(4) | Report | Reply
ZoyosJD  +   362d ago
?

MotionJoy has the capability take PS3 inputs and emulate a 360 gamepad, so if 360 controller works so does motionJoy.

About mileage...the PS3's is wireless. LMAO.
nukeitall  +   362d ago
@ZoyosJD:

Keyword is emulating which is far from the same.

What does PS3's controller being wireless has to do with anything? So is the Xbox 360's controller?
#9.3.2 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(1) | Disagree(2) | Report
STONEY4  +   362d ago
The 360 controller "emulation" is more like making games detect the PS3 controller as a 360 controller rather than emulating anything. Which means, if a 360 gamepad works, so would MotionJoy. I've used my PS3 controller in countless games and never ran into any incompatibility problems.
#9.3.3 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(2) | Disagree(2) | Report
jack_burt0n  +   362d ago
Dont know any serious pc gamers that own a 360.... so this is the best option by far to get the best pad controller for pc.
kevnb  +   362d ago
You can buy the 360 pad with wireless dongle for the same price as a ps3 controller. But options are always good.
CoLD FiRE  +   362d ago
What you said doesn't make any sense!I'm a "serious" PC gamer and own 2 Xbox 360s. I have one in the living room and one sitting next to my PC and connected to a 23" monitor.

In terms of compatibility and ease of use(plug n' play), the best pad for PC is the Xbox 360 controller.

Whether you prefer the 360's controller or the dual shock is completely subjective.
kevnb  +   362d ago
This program doesn't seem to work without internet...
jsslifelike  +   362d ago
Yep. I found that out REALLY quickly.
MetalProxy  +   362d ago
Humm didnt you use the internet to make a comment on this site? How many people with computers dont have internet? Dang I must be lost :(
jsslifelike  +   362d ago
Well, no kiddin', but I don't have a hardwired connection in my home theater, so when I tried to use it before buying a wifi card, it did me no good.
Cosmit  +   362d ago
Actually it does work without internet. I figured out how when I had no internet for like 2 months a while back. Had a blast playing Just Cause 2, FIFA, RE5(split screen with my brother) on PC when i had no internet access.

If you guys are still interested in finding out how, then PM me or reply. I can get back to you once I'm home on my computer.
Bangkay  +   362d ago
IIRC, you can actually download some files or 'offline' files for MotionInJoy so you can use it without an internet connection available.
chukamachine  +   362d ago
Motionjoy

All you do is plug in your PS3 Controller and select 360. enable.

As most games support it, works great.
dc1  +   362d ago
yep!

That's a very easy option for most (it requires zero mapping).

Of course most...(some) PC games have mods to change the button picture mapping on the game
TheMrFraz  +   362d ago
Sorry to anyone who can't connect. We've been having major server problems and are trying to get everything solved as soon as possible!
Adropacrich2  +   362d ago
Once a very big fan of the PS pad but it feels feels quite unfitting in the hands and fairly horrible in comparison to the 360 pad. People are better off just plugging in a 360 pad these days and they generally do anyway
TheObserver  +   362d ago
You're doing it wrong. The Dualshock is designed to sit on top of your hands by the pinky and ring finger. Not completely fill your palms. By that virtue, no matter how small or large your hands are, there is always room for 2 fingers on each hand. It is intuitive, even a kid can do it. I can't say the same for the 360. If you try to completely grip the DS, of course that's your issue.

Also, I never get sweaty hands on a DS because it doesn't make 100% complete contact with the palm. While on the Xbox, I notice that I get sweaty palms a lot.
Infernostew  +   362d ago
I use my ps3 controller for emulators and stuff but i don't even use motionjoy. If your computer has bluetooth support, you can just plug it in with a usb adaptor (comes with ps3) and your computer should pick it up. What I'm finding is that some steam games (super meat boy mostly) is not entirely compatible and you can't remap buttons, for osx at least. Although I prefer the ps3 controller, I may have to purchase an xbox controller for some games.
coolasj  +   362d ago
I Thought We Got Official Drivers A While Ago?
nvm
#16 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(0) | Disagree(0) | Report | Reply
guitar_nerd_23  +   362d ago
I discovered an app to use a Dualshock with an Android phone the other day, it's really smart and you can even map buttons to where virtual buttons will be so it works with just about everything that would be better suited to a controller.

http://www.dancingpixelstud...

Makes Max Payne: Mobile like the best £2.50 to spend on the whole market.
KrimsonKody  +   362d ago
Duh
So old,
Been playing games on my PC via PS3 controller since it was only a sixaxis...
Not news, moving along.
Jasman  +   362d ago
Motionjoy was one of the most invasive pieces of software I have ever installed on my laptop. It started screwing around with my USB drivers and prevented me from using a bunch of external devices.

I had to spend over 3 hours rooting through my registry in order to completely get rid of it.
-Gespenst-  +   362d ago
While I didn't experience problems like yours, it doesn't surprise me. it's a really buggy driver. I'm not sure people should rush into downloading it without researching it a bit.

It's not a virus or something, but it's not exactly very stable. For some reason it's a little bit difficult to make a ps3 controller work despite the fact that it's just usb... annoying.
RyuDrinksTheDew  +   362d ago
little late to the party haha.

i do highly recommend this to people though, its free.
0pie  +   362d ago
real pc gamers play with a keyboard and a mouse... Noob play with a gamepad.
Real recognize real.
dktxx2  +   362d ago
Real PC gamers play with whatever the hell they want and don't let d-bags tell them what's "real."
0pie  +   362d ago
there is nothing like playing a shooter with a keyboard and a mouse.
But for some game like sandbox/racing/fighting game i can understand why ppl use gamepad

otherwise... Keyboard + mouse.
r21  +   362d ago
cant seem to open the website? traffic i suppose.
FrightfulActions  +   362d ago
Have to love the amount of fanboys that take the time to reply in this. They turn a guide article into a "keyboard+mouse is so much better noobs" and "xbox controller is so much better noobs" argument. It isn't even an opinion piece is it? I can't say since the website is down at the time of posting. It seems to me that it's just a bit of a how-to guide for getting your PS3 controller compatible with PC for gaming.

Way to turn a tutorial into a fanboy flamewar.
nevin1  +   362d ago
I cant seem to acesss the site either. Can somebody list the steps?
-Gespenst-  +   362d ago
Known about this for what must nearly be two years.

It's a little bit buggy though truth be told. I think you'd probably be better off buying a 360 controller.

It's great for playing emulated games actually, particularly ps1 obviously, but it works well with most. I wouldn't bother for most PC games though, ie fps / rts
#25 (Edited 362d ago ) | Agree(1) | Disagree(0) | Report | Reply
TheMrFraz  +   362d ago
Can't apologize enough for the server problems tonight...

For everyone interested, here's the link to the software:

http://www.motioninjoy.com/...
Commander-Koslun  +   362d ago
Definitely gonna try PC games this fall, if I can use my PS3 controller? I'm game.
Hassassin  +   362d ago
Be sure to select your PS3 controller, in motionjoy, as an XBOX pad emulator
-cheers
Commander-Koslun  +   361d ago
Gotcha, thanks
fantomy  +   362d ago
MotionJoy is great but the program was not updated for several years. After some time it just stopped working for me.
yeahokchief  +   362d ago
Figure this out for when Dark Souls arrives later this year.
Gamerita  +   362d ago
i have been doing this for couple of years now & i can honestly say that the accuracy in playing games has improved over using the xbox360 wireless controller for windows a great deal. the ds3 is the best pc controller.

i really hope motion joy is going to be supported in windows 8.
« 1 2 »

Add comment

You need to be registered to add comments. Register here or login
Remember
New stories
20°

GamesBeat: Hotline Miami 2 leads the pack of indie sequels you should watch for in 2013

20m ago - GB: Triple-A games weren't the only ones who had sequels at E3. A few prominent indie game develo... | PC
10°

GamesBeat: The state of Mario: How Nintendo attempts to make its beloved mascot relevant in 2013

20m ago - GB: GamesBeat spoke with Koichi Hayashida and Yoshiaki Koizumi at E3 to find out how Nintendo kee... | Wii U
40°

Top 10 Games That Were Missing From E3 2013

20m ago - CCC says: "E3 is the biggest gaming event of the year, bringing in companies and media from all o... | Culture
40°

The Walking Dead: 400 Days Preview – The Art of Survival I The Koalition

20m ago - Richard Bailey of TheKoalition wrote: When Telltale Games decided to develop a 5-part episodic s... | PC
Ad

Mario and Donkey Kong: Minis on the Move (3DS) Review

Now - Dave checks out Nintendo's new micro-puzzle game for the 3DS. See how it fares in our full review. | Promoted post
30°

Soundodger Preview | Indie Game Insider

31m ago - Soundodger is a cool indie title from solo developer Bean where you dodge polygons in rhythm to t... | PC