Before deep-diving, do these:
Disable Steam Input per-game if using native XInput: Library → right-click Sleeping Dogs → Properties → Controller → Override → set to “Disable Steam Input”.
Use x360ce (if game uses DirectInput):
Install/enable DS4Windows for PS controllers: maps DualShock to XInput; run before starting the game.
Update drivers: Xbox/USB controller drivers via Device Manager; update controller firmware via manufacturer apps.
Run as admin / compatibility mode: Right-click SleepingDogs.exe → Properties → Compatibility → try Windows 7/8 and “Run as administrator”.
Disable conflicting apps: Close Steam, Origin, DS4Tool, HIDGuardian, other mapping tools; then start only the needed mapper.
Check INI/controller config: In Documents\My Games\Sleeping Dogs\ (or game folder) look for controller settings; reset or delete to rebuild defaults.
Verify game files (Steam): Library → Sleeping Dogs → Properties → Local Files → Verify integrity of game files.
Use controller GUID fix if controller not recognized: add or replace xinput1_3.dll/xinput9_1_0.dll per x360ce instructions (back up originals).
If nothing above works, you need to manually patch the game's input system. These are the tried-and-true "nuclear" options. sleeping dogs pc controller fix
The Problem: The Xbox Wireless Adapter works fine, but Bluetooth causes Sleeping Dogs to see a "Pro Controller" or nothing at all. Before deep-diving, do these:
The Fix: