What Controllers can you use for Dolphin?

The Dolphin emulator allows you to play GameCube and Wii games on your Windows, MacOS, or Linux desktop or laptop. Its open source software and active community enable compatibility with a wide variety of controller types beyond the original Wii Remotes and GameCube controllers.

From first-party Nintendo controllers to Xbox gamepads to smartphone apps, Dolphin provides plenty of control options. While Wii Remotes or GameCube controllers offer the most authentic and intended experience for Nintendo titles, other controllers work seamlessly as well.

Wii Remotes Offer the Full Wiimote Experience

The original Wii Remotes, released alongside the launch of the Nintendo Wii in 2006, connect natively to Dolphin emulator via Bluetooth. This includes the standard Wii Remotes, with or without the MotionPlus module inside for more accurate motion controls.

Syncing a Wiimote to Dolphin takes seconds – simply press the 1+2 buttons simultaneously then connect. Up to 4 Wiimotes can be connected simultaneously for local multiplayer games. Dolphin fully supports all Wiimote capabilities: motions sensing, pointing at the screen for aiming, gesture inputs, rumors, and add-on attachments like the Nunchuk or Classic Controller.

This makes Wii Remotes the best option for playing titles like Wii Sports that rely heavily on motion input. Third party Wii Remotes are not officially supported and connection issues may occur, so try to use official Nintendo controllers when possible.

GameCube Controllers Provide an Authentic Experience

Dolphin has specialized integrated support for the Wii U GameCube controller adapter crafted by Nintendo. Simply plug this adapter into your PC via USB and your GameCube controllers connects seamlessly.

GameCube controllers offer some unique traits including the octagonal gate joystick for eight-direction inputs and analog shoulder triggers with full range of motion. This makes them ideal for racing games, shooters, and any title released for the Nintendo GameCube. Plus, the muscle memory remains ingrained for those veterans of GameCube gaming.

Rumble/force feedback is fully supported when using GameCube controller. And Dolphin allows custom mapping of buttons if you wish to tweak the default layout.

Xbox Controllers Just Work

The Xbox controller has become an industry standard gamepad for all platforms. Through XInput, Xbox 360, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S controllers seamlessly connect to Dolphin whether wired directly via USB or wireless over Bluetooth.

The dual analog design, four face buttons, clickable sticks and shoulder buttons map nicely and intuitively to the GameCube and Wii controller layouts. While not offering rumble, motion or pointing capability, Xbox gamepads handle smoothly across various games using Dolphin thanks to the controller‘s ergonomic design.

Plus Dolphin offers extensive customization like remapping buttons or altering stick sensitivity to tailor the Xbox experience to your personal preferences. Both first-party Xbox controllers and third-party Xbox-style gamepads work this way.

Other Unique Controllers and Control Schemes

Thanks to open source development contributions, Dolphin users have crafted solutions for other controller types:

• PlayStation DualShock 4 can connect to Dolphin by purchasing a third-party adapter that translates inputs to XInput. This allows PS4 and PS5 owners to leverage controllers they already own.

• Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers work by installing a custom Dolphin fork with Pro Controller support and using the BetterJoy software to translate inputs.

• Smartphone Controller Apps like Dolphin Mote or Wiimote Connect allow you to install an app on your Android or iOS phone and connect it to your Dolphin PC instance as a makeshift Wii Remote over WiFi.

• DIY Solutions using Arduino or Raspberry Pi have also been created by tinkerers according to Dolphin community forums and guides.

The open source ethos around Dolphin means that controller possibilities are limited only by users imagination and willingness to experiment!

Comparsion of Controller Options

In summary, Dolphin pairs well with a variety of controller solutions whether you prefer the nostalgic Nintendo options or a modern gamepad like the Xbox controller. Conveniently use what you already own and customize to your heart‘s content. With its open source community continually expanding hardware compatibility, Dolphin pushes the boundaries of controller innovation for classic Nintendo game emulation and accessiblity.