How To Play Minecraft Java with a Controller (PC)

By Jess •  Updated: 08/21/23 •  7 min read

Have you ever wanted to play Minecraft Java Edition with a controller? Well, I know I have, but it doesn't have controller support by default. Luckily, there is a mod that will allow you to add controller support to Minecraft Java Edition. Thus, you allowing you to use Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and even the SteamDeck to play Minecraft Java Edition. In this guide, we will walk you through every step to get you playing Minecraft Java Edition with your controller. Let's dive in!



What is covered in this Minecraft controller guide:

Controllers Supported by The Controller Mod

The mod we will be using to add controller supper is the Controllable Mod. The beauty of the Controllable mod lies in its versatility. Whether you're a fan of Xbox, PlayStation, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, or even the Steam Deck, this mod has got you covered. It's designed to be as inclusive as possible, ensuring that players can play Minecraft with their preferred controller no matter what.

Downloading Forge

Forge is the backbone of many Minecraft mods, acting as the bridge between the game and the modifications you want to introduce. We have an in-depth guide on getting Forge, but here is a quick guide.

Step 1: Download The Forge Mod Loader

Begin by heading to the official Forge download page. Here, you'll find a list of versions available for download on the left-hand side. Select the version of Forge you want. Just confirm the Controllable mod is available for that version of Minecraft.

Then, come under the “Download Recommended” section and click the “Installer” button.

You will be taken to a page where you need to wait 10 seconds and click a “Skip Ad” button in the top right to start Forge downloading.

You may need to keep or save Forge depending on your browser. This is 100% safe as long as “forge” is in the title of the file you are downloading.

Step 2: Install Forge using The Forge Installer

Once downloaded, run the installer. To do this, just double-click on the installer file you downloaded. If Forge doesn't open, download Java and run the Jarfix. Then, you will be able to open the Forge installer.

In the Forge installer, select “Client” and click “Okay” Forge will begin installing! Now, we can move on to getting the Controllable mod to play Minecraft with a controller.

Download the Controller Mod

With Forge in installed, let's move on to downloading the Controllable mod.

Step 1: Access the Controllable Download Page

First things first, navigate to the official Controllable mod download page. Once you are there, you will be able to see some information about the mod including some of the features and the documentation for the mod.

Step 2: Download Controllable

To actually download the Minecraft controller mod, click on the “Files” tab at the top. Locate the version of Controllable you want to install and download it. You may need to keep or save the file depending on your browser.

Download Framework

Framework is a compatibility mod that is required in order to run the Controllable mod.

Step 1: Go to the Framework Download Page

To download Framework, you will need to first go to the Framework download page. On this page, you can get some information about Framework and how it is different from other library mods. It also has some information on what it enables for the mods that use it.

Step 2: Download Framework

The process of downloading Framework is the exact same as the Minecraft Java controller mod. Just click on “Files” and find the version of the mod that you want to install. Make sure that it is for the same version of Minecraft as the Controllable mod.

Download this file, and you are good to go! We can now move on to how to install the Controller mod in Minecraft.

Install the Controller Mod

With everything downloaded and Forge installed, it is super easy to install Controllable.

Step 1: Open Minecraft with Forge

Launch your Minecraft Launcher. Here, under the “Installations” tab, you'll want to ensure you're launching the game using the Forge installation. Just hover over it and click Play button that appears.

If you don't have Forge on the “Installations” tab, it is most likely due to the fact you don't have “modded” selected in the top right. Selecting it will make Forge appears allowing you to play Minecraft using that installation.

Step 2: Access the “mods” Folder

Once you are in Minecraft, click the “mods” button on the main menu.

Click the “Open Mods Folder” button in the bottom-left of the mods menu. Your mods folder will open.

Step 3: Adding Controllable to the mods Folder

All we need to do to get the Minecraft controller mod installed is simply drag and drop the Controllable and Framework files we downloaded into this “mods” folder. Minecraft will recognize it the next time it launches with the Forge installation, integrating controller support!

Playing Minecraft with a Controller

Now, let's take a look at how we can actually play Minecraft with a controller now that the Controllable mod is installed.

Step 1: Restart Minecraft

Before the Controllable mod will be active, you will need to restart Minecraft. Just close and relaunch Minecraft, ensuring you're still using the Forge installation.

Step 2: Connect Your Controller

Once Minecraft opens, plug in your controller. This can be done via USB or Bluetooth depending on the controller you are using. The Minecraft controller mod will instantly start working recognizing the controller. You will be able to navigate the main menu using the controller to make sure things are working. In-game the controls are very similar to Minecraft Bedrock.

Step 3: Customizing Your Controller Settings

If you do want to change your controller bindings, the Controllable mod offers a settings interface within Minecraft. This can be accessed by going to “Options”. You will see a little controller icon next to the “Controls” button.

Here, players can reassign button mappings, adjust sensitivity, and more, ensuring Minecraft Java Edition with a controller feels just right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of controller, or is it specific to certain brands like Xbox or PlayStation?

The Controllable mod is designed to be versatile and supports a wide range of controllers, including those from Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, and even the Steam Deck. While these are the most commonly used controllers, the mod aims to be as inclusive as possible. However, it's always a good idea to check the mod's documentation or forum discussions for any specific compatibility details.

What if my controller isn't recognized by the Controllable mod?

If your controller isn't immediately recognized, there are a few steps you can take. First, ensure that your controller drivers are up-to-date and that the controller is functioning correctly with other games or software. Next, check the mod's settings in Minecraft to see if there's a manual configuration option. If you're still facing issues, it might be helpful to visit the mod's official forum or discussion.

Can I customize the controller buttons to my liking, or am I stuck with the default settings?

 Yes, you can customize the controller buttons! The Controllable mod provides an intuitive interface within Minecraft's settings, allowing players to reassign and configure button mappings to their preference. This ensures that players can tailor their gameplay experience to what feels most comfortable for them.

Can I use the controller mod in multiplayer or on Minecraft servers?

Absolutely! The Controllable mod is designed to work seamlessly in both single-player and multiplayer environments. Whether you're exploring your own world or joining friends on a server, the mod should function without any hitches. However, it's worth noting that the mod is client-side, meaning it won't affect gameplay mechanics on the server or give any competitive advantage.

Jess

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