Version: 2.0.2.163 (32-bit)
Release date: Late 2015 / Early 2016 (legacy stable build)
Type: Xbox 360 Controller Emulator

Title: X360ce 2.0.2.163 – The Reliable Xbox 360 Controller Emulator for Older & Newer Games

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If you've ever tried to use a non-Xbox controller (like a PlayStation, Logitech, or generic gamepad) with a PC game that only supports Xbox 360 controllers, you’ve probably heard of X360ce – the Xbox 360 Controller Emulator.

Today, let's look at version 2.0.2.163, a stable and widely used release from the 2.0 branch.

Close the X360ce window and launch your game normally. If the emulator is working, you will hear the standard “Device Connected” chime from Windows (if sounds are enabled), and the controller will function immediately.

This version (2.0.2.163) is considered legacy. For newer games/OS:

Let’s walk through installing and configuring this specific version. This guide assumes you have a non-Xbox controller (e.g., a PlayStation 4 controller or a Logitech F310 in DirectInput mode).

Document prepared for educational and technical archival purposes.

Bringing Your Old Controllers to Life: A Look at X360ce 2.0.2.163

If you’ve ever tried to play a modern PC game with an older USB gamepad or a PlayStation 2 controller via an adapter, you’ve likely hit a wall: the game only recognizes official Xbox 360 controllers. This is where X360ce (Xbox 360 Controller Emulator) comes in. Specifically, version

has remained a "gold standard" for gamers who prefer the older, lighter app interface over the more complex modern versions. What is X360ce 2.0.2.163? X360ce is a free and open-source utility that translates your generic controller's inputs into

, the standard language used by most Windows games. While newer versions exist, many users on SourceForge

still swear by this older release because of its simplicity and high compatibility with "classic" modern titles like Saints Row: The Third Dark Souls Gears of War Why Version 2.0.2.163?

While the project has evolved into version 4.x (which runs as a background service), the 2.x branch is a "portable" emulator. It lives directly inside your game’s folder. No Background Services: It only runs when you need it for a specific game. Direct Mapping:

You can manually map every button, from the D-pad to the analog sticks, ensuring your PS2 or generic USB controller feels exactly like an Xbox 360 pad. Stability:

For older games, this version is often less prone to conflicts than newer, more "global" emulator versions. Quick Setup Guide Setting up version 2.0.2.163 is straightforward: Placement:

Download the executable and place it in the same directory as your game’s file (often found in folders like Run the app. It will ask to create two files: x360ce.ini xinput1_3.dll . These are the "brains" that trick the game. Search for Settings: The app can search for presets online

, matching your specific controller model with configurations shared by other gamers. Save and Play: Once your buttons light up correctly on the UI, hit

and close the app. Your game will now treat your old-school controller as a modern XInput device.

Whether you're trying to save money by using what you already own or you just prefer the feel of a classic controller, X360ce 2.0.2.163 remains one of the most reliable tools in a PC gamer's toolkit.

Deepen your knowledge of controller emulation and XInput standards. Official Resources Gaming Tutorials Technical Specs Official Project Links The X360CE Home Page

provides the latest news and downloads for the current versions of the emulator.

For community-driven support and older version archives, visit the X360CE SourceForge Repository Game-Specific Guides

See a live demonstration of using X360ce with a PS2 controller for Grand Theft Auto V Learn how to configure the emulator for Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition Understanding XInput PowerA's Guide

explains the differences between DirectInput and XInput and why emulation is necessary. For advanced users, the X360ce Wiki details 'Hook Modes' for better game compatibility. Are you planning to use X360ce for a specific game particular controller

X360ce version 2.0.2.163 is a legacy 32-bit version of the Xbox 360 Controller Emulator that remains popular for its compatibility with specific older games where newer versions fail. Key Use Cases & Community Advice

Specific Game Fixes: This version is widely cited as the only version that works correctly for titles like Dead Rising 2 and Dead Rising 2: Off the Record. It is also used to resolve input issues in Saints Row: The Third when using PS2 controllers via USB adapters.

Legacy Support: It is highly effective for older PC USB controllers, PS1/PS2 controllers, and even specialized hardware like the Logitech Driving Force GT steering wheel.

Ghost Controller Issues: Users on SourceForge have noted that this version can sometimes cause "ghost controllers" (where one physical controller is seen as two in-game), often requiring specific mapping adjustments to fix double-input errors. Essential Setup Tips

Installation: Extract the x360ce.exe file directly into the game folder where the main .exe is located. Configuration:

Set the Device Type to "GamePad" under the Advanced tab if the game doesn't recognize the inputs.

In the Options tab, manually check boxes for xinput1_3.dll, xinput1_2.dll, and xinput1_1.dll to ensure the emulator hooks into the game correctly.

Prerequisites: For stability, ensure you have the DirectX End-User Runtimes and C++ Redistributables (2005–2013) installed to avoid "r6025 virtual call" errors. Where to Find It

Official and community-vetted downloads are available on SourceForge and through detailed community guides on Steam.

If you'd like, I can provide a step-by-step troubleshooting guide for a specific game or help you map buttons for a non-standard controller. X360CE • Xbox 360 Controller Emulator

Informative Report: x360ce Version 2.0.2.163 x360ce (Xbox 360 Controller Emulator) is a widely used open-source utility that allows non-XInput game controllers (such as older DirectInput joysticks, steering wheels, and generic USB gamepads) to function as an Xbox 360 controller on Windows systems. Version Overview: 2.0.2.163 (Beta 2)

Release 2.0.2.163 is a legacy version of the emulator, primarily known for its stability during the era of Windows 7 and 8. It was a key "Beta 2" milestone in the software's development cycle, often cited in community guides for games like Dark Souls or Grand Theft Auto IV. Key Functionality

XInput Translation: The software intercepts calls from a game to xinput1_3.dll and translates them into instructions the connected DirectInput device can understand.

Library Creation: Upon launch, it typically prompts the user to create two essential files in the game's directory: xinput1_3.dll (The wrapper library)

x360ce.ini (The configuration file containing button mappings)

Button Mapping: Users can manually "Record" inputs by selecting a virtual button in the interface and then pressing the corresponding physical button on their controller. Technical Requirements (Historical)

To run this specific version effectively, systems generally required: .NET Framework 3.5 or 4.0 DirectX End-User Runtime Visual C++ Redistributable Packages Modern Status

While version 2.0.2.163 is still available in various community archives, it has largely been superseded by version 3.x (which introduced a more automated "Internet Database" for settings) and version 4.x (which operates as a global virtual driver rather than a per-game DLL).

For modern gaming on Windows 10 or 11, the official x360ce website recommends the latest 4.x "All-in-one" version to ensure compatibility with modern security features and 64-bit applications.

Pro Tip: If you are using this specific version for a retro game, ensure you place the executable in the same folder as the game's .exe file to properly generate the required DLLs. x360ce: Install, and other stuff related to Directx and C++