How to Use the GameSir X5S
How to Use the GameSir X5S
The best Bluetooth controller for Switch/Switch 2.
Product Overview
Key Features
- • Precise and Anti-drift: GameSir™ Hall Effect Sticks
- • Tri-Mode Connectivity for Wide Device Compatibility
- • Cushioned and Durable Membrane Triggers and Buttons
- • Software customization
Tech Specs
- • Working Platform: Switch, Switch2, Android, iOS, PC
- • Connection: Bluetooth, USB-C wired, 2.4GHz wireless (*2.4GHz dongle not included)
- • Weight: 174.1 g / 0.384 lbs
- • Supported Software: GameSir app
System Requirements
Android
Android 8.0 or above Bluetooth
Switch
Switch/Switch 2 Bluetooth
Windows
Windows 10/11 Wired
Getting Started

1Basic Function Introduction
| Status | description |
|---|---|
| Power On | Press and hold the Home button for 1 second when the controller is stretched or retracted. |
| Power Off | Press and hold the Home button for 5 seconds to power off. |
| Standby | The controller will automatically power off if there is no operation whilein connection status for 10 minutes. |
| Low Battery | When the battery is below 15%, the indicator will flash in red. |
| Charging | The controller can be charged via the Type-C cable.When charging while the controller is off, the indicator will indicate thecharging progress with a breathing light effect. |
| Checkmode | Press and hold the M button to view the current mode through the color of the Home indicator. |
2Connection Status
| Status | Operation | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Successful | Solid | The Device is connected successfully |
| Pairing Status | Flash Rapidly | In pairing status, it can be discovered and connectedby new device. |
| Reconnecting | Flash Slowly | In reconnecting status, it automatically connects to thelast successfully connected device.Press and hold the Pairing button to forcefully switch topairing status. |
3Platform And Mode
| Platform | Mode | Indicator | Switch Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android | Android Mode | Yellow | Hold For Logo Button + A Button 2S |
| PC/Android/Other Devices | Blue Mode | Dark Blue | Hold For Logo Button + B Button 2S |
| Switch/Other Devices | Switch Mode | Red | Hold For Logo Button + Y Button 2S |
| Android | G-Touch Mode | Light Blue | Hold For Logo Button + RB Button 2S |
4Switch Connection Tutorials
- Go to Switch main menu, then select Controller--Change Grip/Order to enter pairing status.
- Press and hold Logo Button + Y Button until the indicator flashes rapidly in red, then wait for the connection.
- A solid indicator indicates that the connection is successful.
- lf the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button re-enter pairing status.
5Android Connection Tutorials
- Press and hold Logo Button + A Button until the indicator flashes rapidly in yellow.
- Open the Bluetooth list on your phone, select "Gamesir-X5s", and click to connect.
- A solid indicator indicates that the connection is successful.
- If the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button to re-enter pairing status.
6G-TOUCH Mode Connection Tutorials
- Press and hold Logo Button + RB Button until the indicator flashes rapidly in yellow.
- Open the Bluetooth list on your phone, select "Gamesir-X5s_G", and click to connect.
- A solid indicator indicates that the connection is successful.
- If the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button to re-enter pairing status.
7iOS Connection Tutorials
- Press and hold Logo Button + Y Button until the indicator flashes rapidly in red.
- Open the Bluetooth list on your phone, select "Pro Controller", and click to connect.
- A solid indicator indicates that the connection is successful.
- If the connection is unsuccessful, press and hold Pairing Button to re-enter pairing status.
8Connect to a Device VIA Wired Connection
- Use the included Type-C cable to connect, and the controller will automatically recognize the device.
- After connecting, the controller will automatically switch to the corresponding mode and can be used normally. Press and hold View Button + Menu Button to switch between XBOX/Switch mode in sequence.
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For Switch: After connecting to the Switch via wired connection, go to “System Settings - Controllers and Sensors - Pro Controller Wired Communication” and enable this feature.
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This mode switching method is only supported when using a receiver or a wired connection. **
9Calibration
Sticks & Triggers
- Hold View Button + Menu Button + Logo Button simultaneously to enter calibration mode.
- The indicator will flash slowly in white during this process. At this point, push both sticks all the way to their limits and rotate them 2-3 times. Press both triggers fully down with appropriate pressure for 3 times.
- Finally, press to exit. The indicator will return to its normal state.
Gyroscope
- Place the controller on a stable, flat surface. Hold M Button + View Button simultaneously, and the gyroscope will automatically begin calibration.
- During calibration, the indicator will flash in red and blue alternately.
- When the indicator returns to its original light effect, the calibration is complete.
10Controller Reset
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To reset the X5s, hold down the Home and View buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. (This combination of buttons requires the phone to be connected.)
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If you hold down the View + Menu + M keys for 3 seconds, all data will be cleared, and you’ll need to pair the device again. (This operation doesn’t require connecting to a phone.)
11Silicone Pad Replacement
GameSir-X5s features a swappable silicone pad design on both sides, allowing users to customize the pad thickness based on their device. When installing, ensure the thicker side of the silicone pad faces upward and the thinner side faces downward.

Advanced Tutorials
Button Combination Function
Toggle Stick’s Dead Zone
Press and hold the M button and push down on the left/right stick to toggle the corresponding stick’s dead zone.

Switch Layout
Press and hold the M button and A button to swap button values of A-B and X-Y.

Adjust Volume
While holding the Home button, press D-pad Up/Down to increase/decrease volume.
- Only works in Android mode.
Activate Turbo Function
While holding the M button, press A/B/X/Y/LB/RB/LT/RT to activate the Turbo function for that button. Repeat this operation to deactivate.
- Press and hold the M button and Home button for 2 seconds to clear all Turbo settings.

Adjust Vibration Intensity
While holding the M button, press D-pad Up/Down to increase/decrease the vibration intensity level.

Toggle Hair Trigger Mode
Press and hold the M button + LT/RT trigger to toggle the hair trigger mode.

FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Which devices does the X5s support?
The X5s is compatible with Switch 2, Switch, iOS, Android phones, and tablets between 105–213mm (4.13–8.39 inches) in length, as well as PC.
2.What types of connectivity does the X5s support?
The X5s supports tri-mode connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C wired, 2.4GHz wireless. (*Wireless dongle sold separately.)
3.Does the X5s have a battery?
Yes. It features a total battery capacity of 840mAh, with 420mAh in each grip.
4.What are the special features of the sticks?
The GameSir™ Hall Effect sticks use non-contact magnetic sensors to ensure they never wear down, preventing stick drift.
5.Does the X5s have analog triggers?
Yes. It features Hall Effect analog triggers for smooth, accurate input. You can switch to hair trigger mode by holding M + LT/RT.
6.Can I switch between XBOX and Switch ABXY layouts?
Yes. The ABXY buttons are physically swappable using the included button clip. You can remap the button values by pressing M + A.
7.Does the X5s support vibration?
Yes. It features HD vibration motors in the grips, providing subtle and immersive vibration feedback.
8.Does the X5s have a Turbo function?
Yes. Turbo is supported on the following buttons: A / B / X / Y / LB / RB / LT / RT.
9.What are FX5 and FX5 Lite?
The FX5 and FX5 Lite are custom-designed thermoelectric coolers for the X5 series. They are optional accessories that can be purchased separately for enhanced cooling during gameplay.

10.What is the weight of the X5s?
The X5s weighs approximately 174.1 g (0.384 lbs), roughly equivalent to an iPhone 16. Its lightweight design ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions or while traveling.
11.Does the X5s support customization via software?
Yes. By using the GameSir App, you can update firmware, adjust stick and trigger dead zones, customize vibration intensity, test button inputs, and more.
12.What are the differences between the X5s and the X5 Lite?

Frequently Asked Product Usage Questions
I'm having issues with the X5S Gyro, what do I do?
Place the controller on a stable, flat surface. Hold M button + View button simultaneously, and the gyroscope will start calibrating automatically. During calibration, the indicator flashes red and blue alternately. Calibration finishes once the indicator reverts to its default lighting state.
How to enable touch mapping on Android phone/G-touch/V-touch tutuorial?
For Android users, enable the mapping function in the game list of the GameSir World app by following the G-Touch tutorial shown in the screenshot: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2241/8433/files/425a96df4bff7114defc1670fd28eb2b.png?v=1739350140
Once mapping is enabled, launch your game through the app. An in-game floating controller icon will appear on the screen: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2241/8433/files/92293cb8ae788980fcb6b0e048f236b1.png?v=1739350148
If you encounter issues activating V-Touch mode, refer to the official tutorial video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqP2za4QfUY
Full PC activation guide for V-Touch: https://gamesir.com/pages/gamesir-activation-tutorial?_pos=1&_sid=a0bf37aff&_ss=r
Notes: Touch Mapping functions (G-Touch / V-Touch) are unavailable on iOS devices including iPhone and iPad due to system restrictions. However, most natively controller-supported iOS titles such as Genshin Impact support plug-and-play without extra mapping activation. Compared with Android, iOS features broader native controller compatibility across most mobile games.
Why don’t the buttons or joystick work when an iOS device is connected to G8+/G8/X5 Lite/X5S/X3 Pro/X2S/G8+MFI?
This issue occurs because AssistiveTouch is enabled on your iPhone.
- Tap the Settings icon on the iPhone home screen to open the Settings menu.
- Tap General, then select Accessibility.
- Tap AssistiveTouch.
- Toggle the switch from On to Off to disable the AssistiveTouch feature.
Why my G8+/G8/G8+MFI/X5S/X5 Lite/X3 Pro/X2S 's pass-through charging doesn't work on my phones?
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Confirm that the OTG function is enabled in your phone settings (common for Xiaomi, OPPO, VIVO, Realme and iQOO devices).
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Try adjusting the connection sequence of the charging cable and the controller.
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Use a charger compliant with the standard PD protocol (maximum 9 V / 3 A) or replace your cable.
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If none of the above steps resolve the issue, incompatibility with the PD protocol is highly probable.
The controller supports a maximum input of 9 V / 3 A. Many mainstream mobile phones support pass-through charging.
Since the charger supplies power to the phone via the controller, both the phone and charger must support PD 2.0 or newer. The controller can negotiate a maximum power profile of 9 V / 3 A with the charger and phone. The actual charging power delivered to the phone is subject to the restrictions imposed by the phone’s system.
How to close or lower the Indicator light of X5S/X5 Lite/G8/G8+/G8+MFI/X3 Pro?
Hold the M button + Menu (+) button for 5 seconds to turn off or dim the lighting.
Why View button has a delay when pressing it on iPhone with my G8+/X5S?
This issue is triggered by iOS’s Shared Gestures function for game controllers.
To disable Shared Gestures and prevent unintended screenshots when using your controller with iPhone or iPad, follow the steps below:
- Open the Settings menu on your iPhone or iPad.
- Navigate to General > Game Controller > Default Controls.
- Tap the name of your connected controller.
- Scroll down to locate Shared Gestures and turn off the screenshot function.
I can't register the GameSir APP, I can't receive verification code in my email.
If you are using a Gmail account for login, try switching to an alternative email address if available.
Important reminder: An account is only required for cloud backup of screen mappings. Login is not mandatory if you encounter persistent login difficulties.
I can't touch the screen and use the controller simultaneously. For example: If im moving the left joystick to move forward and then use my right thumb in the right side of the screen to aim i stop moving forward. I can only use one at a time.
If you cannot activate screen touch and controller input simultaneously, confirm that you are using V-Touch Mode and turn on Intensive Mapping.
- Tap the floating red GameSir icon on your screen.
- Go to Settings > General Settings.
- Enable Intensive Mapping.
Why do I feel that the mapping on HID/G-Touch mode is laggy/inconsistent?
HID Mode (the foundation of G-Touch) has inherent limitations imposed by its connection protocol. As a result, its performance is marginally inferior to other modes, and this behavior is normal. If this leads to in-game issues, we recommend switching to V-Touch mapping enabled.
I'm an iPhone (iOS) user and I can't access games in GameSir app. When I go to the "Game" menu, all I get is a message saying "Sorry, this function is not supported." How do I play my games? What about touch mapping?
For iPhone and iOS users: Apple restricted custom mapping features starting from iOS 13.4. Accordingly, the game library and mapping functions are no longer supported. When gaming on iOS, pair the controller following the recommended procedure and launch your game directly without opening the GameSir app. The GameSir app can still be used solely for firmware updates and controller configuration adjustments.
I've ran into issues after the firmware upgrade, how do I perform a firmware downgrade?
To roll back firmware: Click the Other Version link on the firmware update page and select the previous stable firmware version.
Detailed operation path within the GameSir app:
- On the main page, tap the controller icon.
- Go to Firmware Upgrade > Other Version.
- Choose your target firmware version.
Why does the iOS version of the GameSir mobile app support less controllers than the Android one?
iOS imposes specific compatibility requirements. Controllers require either an MFi license or Bluetooth connectivity to achieve full functionality. Most GameSir controllers do not carry MFi certification and therefore lack full access under iOS. The X3 Pro serves as an exception. As a premium model, it supports Bluetooth connection to enable complete compatibility with iOS.
My controller is connected via dongle or cable and on the Switch mode, but it is not working. What do I do?
Enable Pro Controller Wired Communication following the steps below:
- Open System Settings from the HOME Menu
- Navigate to Controllers and Sensors
- Select Pro Controller Wired Communication
- Toggle the option to On
What is G-Touch? How to map buttons with Android phone/tablet?
G-Touch Technology
G-Touch supports mapping configuration without persistent auxiliary apps. You can connect and play mobile games directly after setup!
Connecting gaming peripherals to smart devices often involves complicated operations due to system limitations, resulting in poor user experience. GameSir has continuously developed and upgraded technologies to resolve such troubles. You can understand G-Touch as follows: G-Touch direct-connect technology simulates a virtual touch peripheral on your phone or tablet. Commands sent by the GameSir controller are identified as native system input signals, which means all controller operations act as direct screen touches.
Controller operation = physical touch operation (no overlay mapping)
In this mode, the GameSir controller runs in an invisible state on the device. The advantages are listed below:
- No additional downloads required
- No activation steps
- No secondary applications needed
- No jailbreak or root access required
- No cloud adaptation packages, and more
G-Touch direct-connect technology works with Android devices for the following controllers released after 2023: G8 Galileo / G8+, X3 Pro, X2 Bluetooth / Type-C, X2s Bluetooth / Type-C, G4 PRO Wireless Controller, and more.
Notes: Apple blocks third-party mapping functions. Therefore, G-Touch cannot be used on iPhones and iPads. iOS devices only support games with native controller support. If you need controller compatibility for a game, please reach out to the game developer.
G-Touch activation & button mapping tutorial for Android phones and tablets: https://youtu.be/aZ-rVEQDcYc?si=M6F6co_M5GNS8RZM
My X5S acting weird, how to reset X5S?
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Basic Reset Hold the Home button + View button for 3 seconds. Note: This operation requires the controller to be connected to your phone.
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Full Data Clear Reset Hold the View button + Menu button + M button for 3 seconds. All configurations will be erased, and you will need to re-pair the controller. Note: This reset can be performed without connecting to a phone.
What's the difference between G-Touch and V-Touch?
G-Touch vs V-Touch Explanation In short, G-Touch directly transmits touch signals to the screen. When mapped, it behaves identically to physical finger contact. V-Touch is a system-level virtual simulation of screen touches.
We recommend using G-Touch whenever available for broader game compatibility.
How do I activate V-touch (Software Mapping) on Android?
V-Touch Mapping Activation Guide for GameSir X4 Aileron Video walkthrough: https://youtu.be/vqP2za4QfUY?t=38
Step-by-Step Text Instructions
- Open the GameSir World app and select your target game. Below the game title, a mode selection bar will display one of three options: Native (HID Mode), Software Mapping (V-Touch), or Hardware Mapping (G-Touch).
- Tap the selection bar and choose Software Mapping (V-Touch).
- Enable Developer Options on your phone. The exact path differs by device, but the standard workflow is: Phone Settings > About Device > tap the build number seven times. Developer Options will then appear at the bottom of the Settings menu.
- Navigate to Developer Options and enable USB Debugging. If your device includes the USB Debugging (Security Settings) toggle, enable it as well.
- Select your preferred V-Touch activation method:
- Wireless Activation: Enable Wireless Debugging within the Developer Options menu.
- PC Activation: Use the official GameSir PC Activation Tool.
- If you select Wireless Activation: You will be redirected to the Wireless Debugging page. Tap the Wireless Debugging header to open its submenu, then select Pair device with pairing code. Enter the displayed 6-digit pairing code into the GameSir World app notification prompt and wait for activation to complete.
- Once activation finishes, launch the game through the GameSir World app — V-Touch mapping will now be active.
Important Note
Software Mapping (V-Touch) requires activation via either a PC tool or Wireless Debugging on a shared Wi-Fi network; it cannot function without completing one of these two activation workflows.
I'm trying to set up touch mapping, but it's confusing?
Overview of Available Functions
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Recommended Solution Access preset configurations created and shared by other users. You may also share your custom setups after logging into the GameSir app.
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Add Button Map the joysticks, individual buttons, or even multi-button combinations.
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Additional Functionality Inside the layout editor, select any mapped element. Tap the ⚙️ icon to assign extra features to that binding.
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Click Mode
- Normal: Simulates a single tap on the screen
- Separated press & release: Triggers a tap when you press the button and another when you release it
- DownClick: Simulates an instant touch and lift action
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Turbo Mode Generates rapid repeated screen taps. The turbo speed can be adjusted.
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Skill Wheel Mode Link the assigned button to the left or right joystick (or both) to operate a skill wheel.
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Cast Cancel Mode Designed for MOBA games that support drag-to-cast cancellation. Map this function to the cancel zone to interrupt attacks or skills.
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One-button Macro Trigger a sequence of timed screen taps automatically. Ideal for executing high-DPS combos in gacha games.
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Gesture Mode Record touch inputs, swipes and other motions, then bind the recorded gesture to a controller button. The placement of the virtual button does not impact gesture playback.
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Cloned Mode Duplicates the mapped function. Both outputs activate simultaneously on button press or release.
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Sliding Mode Set directional sliding gestures with customizable movement speed; looping is supported.
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Click Range Mode Configure a button to cover and activate a broad region instead of a single small spot on screen.
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More Settings
- Smart Touch: Simulates imprecise touches within the mapped button area
- Overlay transparency adjustment for virtual mapping controls
How do I map Generic HID Controllers on Steam? (Such as G7 Pro via Bluetooth)
Configure Generic Controller in Steam
- Launch Steam. Navigate to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings.
- Tick Enable Steam Input for Generic Gamepads, then click Begin Setup.
Important tip: When prompted to press the Home/Guide button and Share/Capture button during device input setup, skip these prompts by pressing the A button.
Why can't I have Bluetooth Xinput in the latest GameSir Controllers?
Microsoft imposes certain restrictions, so XInput functionality is unavailable via Bluetooth connection.
For PC gaming, we recommend using the official USB wireless receiver included with the controller. This supports wireless XInput mode while maintaining low latency. If you prefer to stay in Bluetooth Mode, launch your games through Steam to utilize Steam’s built-in controller mapping features.
Which controllers have Gyroscopes?
Controllers equipped with a gyroscope are listed below:
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Xbox Controllers (Gyro function only available on PC): G7 Pro, G7 Pro Wuchang, G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero, Tarantula Pro Xbox, T7 Pro Sugar Whirl.
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PC Controllers: SuperNova, Cyclone 2, Tarantula Pro, Tarantula Pro 8K, Nova, G7 Pro 8K.
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Mobile Controllers: G8+, X5S, X3 Pro, G8+ MFi (Android only)
Can i buy replacement part?
We do not sell separate spare parts such as controller internal components, replacement buttons, USB ports, standalone receivers, or other internal repair parts. All original bundled accessories included with controllers are not available for individual purchase.
These accessories are manufactured to be used with the controller and are not sold separately.
Currently, the only items sold separately are:
1.Universal data cable,
2.Faceplate for the G7 series, Faceplate for Supernova, Carrying case for the G7 Pro,
3.Detachable Joystick Caps For G7 Pro & Cyclone 2
4.Anti-friction rings,
5.Thumb grip caps,
6.Charger for nova/nova 2 lite, Charger for cyclone 2,Cooler for X5 Lite ,Dongle for nova(Not for nova 1/2 lite)
7.Dongle compatible with the following controllers: Nova (HD), SuperNova, T3S, Tarantula, Cyclone, Cyclone Pro, X5s, G8+.(It Will not work with Cyclone 2, T4, T4 Pro, T4 Pro SE, G7 Pro, Nova Lite, and Nova Lite 2.)
You can view our separately sold accessories here: https://gamesir.com/collections/gamesir-accessories
Do your controllers have overcharging protection? Will the battery stop charging once it's fully charged to avoid drained battery and safety concerns? does "playing and leave it on the dock" habit will make the battery lifespan shorter?
No worries, all GameSir controllers are equipped with overcharging protection, whether used with a charging dock or not. Charging will automatically stop once the controller reaches full battery. Normally, the indicator light turns off upon full charge.
I'm having stick and trigger issues with my X5 Lite/X5S/G8/G8+/G8+MFI. What do I do?
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Connect your phone to the controller. Hold the View button + Menu button + Home button for 2 seconds. The Home indicator and Mode indicator will flash white slowly, confirming the controller has entered calibration mode.
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Complete calibration within the mode following these steps: a) Rotate both joysticks fully to their maximum range three times, then let them return to the center position naturally. b) Pull both triggers all the way to maximum travel three times, then release them to return to the original position naturally.
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Press the A button to save settings and exit calibration mode.
Notes:
- Operate gently with steady speed during calibration to prevent inaccurate data sampling.
- Calibration is unnecessary if the joysticks and triggers function normally.
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