Mobile devices are becoming more powerful, allowing them to run full-fledged console projects like Genshin Impact. However, touch controls, despite optimization, are often inferior in accuracy and tactile feedback to classic controllers. Using an external gamepad not only increases the comfort of the game, but also frees the screen from buttons, opening up a full overview of the gaming world of Teyvat.
The process of pairing the controller with the phone may vary depending on the device model and the type of gamepad itself. In this article we will look in detail at how to set up a Bluetooth-connection, which models are officially supported, and also consider the nuances of working through USB-OTG. You'll learn how to avoid input lag and adjust stick sensitivity to suit your play style.
It is important to understand that the game has built-in controller support, but it requires the correct initial Android system configuration. We will look at step-by-step algorithms for the most popular brands, such Sony DualSense, Xbox Wireless Controller and universal Chinese analogues. Correct setup ensures that there is no desynchronization of character actions and button presses.
Preparing the device and checking compatibility
Before trying to connect devices, you need to make sure that your smartphone is technically ready to work with peripherals. Modern versions of Android, starting from Android 10, have excellent native support for game controllers, however, older firmware may require additional drivers or not see the device at all. Check the OS version in the section Settings → About phone.
It is also critical to make sure that the version of the game itself is up to date. Developers HoYoverse periodically update the list of supported devices and improve work with external input. Go to the official application store and make sure that you have the latest build. Genshin Impact. Legacy clients may ignore signals from the gamepad.
⚠️ Attention: Some budget smartphones have limitations on port bandwidth or Bluetooth version. If the phone does not see the controller, check the specifications on the official website of the device manufacturer.
For a wired connection you will need an adapter USB-OTG. Not all cables support data transfer, some are only for charging. Use original or certified accessories to avoid problems with the controller's power during long sessions.
☑️ Check before connecting
Instructions for connecting via Bluetooth
Wireless connection is the most popular way to play, as it provides freedom of movement and no extra wires getting tangled under your hands. The pairing process is standard for most devices, but has its own nuances for different controller manufacturers. First of all, activate Bluetooth on your smartphone through the quick settings panel or menu Settings → Connected devices.
For controllers Sony DualShock 4 or DualSense you must simultaneously hold down the buttons PS and Share (or Create on newer models) and hold them until the light bar starts flashing white quickly. This puts the gamepad into discovery mode. The message will appear on the phone screen in the list of available devices. Owners of gamepads from Wireless Controller.
Gamepad owners from Microsoft (Xbox One S, Xbox Series X/S series) need to hold down the pairing button located on the end of the device next to the charging port. The Xbox light will begin to flash quickly. After selecting a device in the list, the drivers will be automatically installed on the phone and the indicator will light up.
- 🎮 Make sure that the gamepad is not connected to the console or PC in the background, otherwise it will not enter pairing mode.
- 📶 Keep the smartphone and controller at a distance of no more than 1-2 meters during the initial setup for stable signal.
- 🔋 Before connecting, it is advisable to charge the gamepad, since the pairing and calibration process consumes energy.
After a successful connection, go into the game. In the control settings Genshin Impact the device type should be automatically detected. If this does not happen, check the “Controller type” item in the game settings menu and select the appropriate layout.
Wired connection via USB-OTG
Using a cable is preferable for those who want to completely eliminate input delays (input lag), which are theoretically possible with an unstable Bluetooth signal in areas congested with airwaves. For this method, you will need a high-quality adapter USB Type-C to USB-A or cable Type-C to Type-Cif your gamepad supports such a connection directly.
Connect the gamepad to the turned on smartphone. The Android system should make a characteristic device connection sound and display a notification about new peripheral equipment. Unlike Bluetooth, there is no pairing mode required - just turn on the controller. The game recognizes it as a wired input device.
It is worth noting that with a wired connection, the gamepad can consume energy from the phone's battery. In long gaming sessions, this can lead to rapid discharge of the mobile device. It is recommended to use adapters with an additional charging port (USB Hub with PD) to simultaneously power both the phone and the controller.
⚠️ Attention: Not all OTG adapters work correctly with the HID (Human Interface Device) protocol. If the phone sees the connection, but the game does not respond to the buttons, try replacing the cable or adapter with another one.
If the phone screen goes blank while playing with a wired gamepad, increase the screen timeout in the system settings, since the lack of touches may be regarded as inaction.
Setting up controls within the game
After physically connecting, you must configure the software part. Go to menu Paymon → Settings → Controls. Here you will see a Device Type switch. Make sure the gamepad icon is selected and not the touchscreen icon. This will activate the corresponding button scheme on the screen (if you decide to use the hybrid mode) and the correct action prompts.
In the same menu, detailed adjustment of the sensitivity of the sticks is available. The parameter Camera sensitivity allows you to adjust the speed of rotation of the view when deflecting the right stick. For dynamic battles, it is recommended to set values above average, while for exploring the world and puzzles, low values will be more comfortable.
Special attention should be paid to setting vibration. Function HD Rumble or standard vibration can be turned off to save battery or if you find it too intrusive. You can also reassign some buttons here if the standard layout is not convenient for you, although full customization in the mobile version is limited compared to the PC.
| Action | Button (Xbox/Sony) | Function in the game |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | X / Square |
Normal character attack |
| Elemental skill | A / Circle |
Use skill (E) |
| Elemental Burst | X (right) / Triangle |
Using Ultimate (Q) |
| Jump | B / Cross |
Jump / Hover |
| Change character | LT/RT / L1/R1 |
Switch between heroes |
Secret gyroscope setting
In some versions of the client, when you connect a controller with a gyroscope (for example, DualSense), a control option becomes available camera by tilting the device, which can be enabled in the advanced control settings.
Solving common problems
Even with the correct sequence of actions, users may encounter a number of technical difficulties. The most common problem is the “floating” stick, when the character begins to move on its own. This is usually solved by calibrating the gamepad through third-party applications or resetting the controller settings (there is often a small hole for a button on the back panel Reset).
If the buttons are pressed, but the actions in the game do not correspond to the captions on the screen (for example, an attack occurs instead of a jump), then the game has incorrectly detected the layout. Try switching the controller type in the game settings or reconnecting the device. Sometimes clearing the application cache helps. Genshin Impact via Android settings.
Input lags may not be caused by the gamepad itself, but by the low performance of the smartphone at a particular moment. Make sure you have background applications closed. Also check if the power saving mode is enabled, which may limit the processor frequency and the operation of the Bluetooth module.
⚠️ Attention: The interface and functions of the game may change with updates. If you do not find the described menu items, check the latest official developer notes in the game launcher.
Most connection problems can be solved by simply rebooting the smartphone and completely turning off/on the gamepad, rather than complex manipulations with drivers.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Genshin Impact support all gamepads on Android?
No, the game has a list of officially supported controllers (mainly Xbox and Sony). Other gamepads can work in touch emulation mode or through third-party mappers, but native support is guaranteed only for popular models.
Is it possible to play with a gamepad in cooperative mode?
Yes, connecting an external controller does not limit the ability to enter multiplayer mode. You can play with friends using a gamepad, just like with touch controls.
Why does the gamepad turn off during the game?
Most often this is due to the controller's battery being low or the phone's power saving mode, which turns off peripherals to save resources. Check the charge of both devices and disable battery optimization for the game.
Do you need root access to connect a gamepad?
No, for modern versions of Android and the current version of Genshin Impact, obtaining root access is not required. The system works with standard HID drivers.