Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the nostalgia of PES 2013 on your PC? But wait, is your controller acting up? Don't worry, configuring your controller for PES 2013 on PC can be a breeze once you know the ropes. Let's get your gamepad perfectly set up so you can start scoring those amazing goals and relive the glory days of this classic football game! We'll cover everything from basic setup to troubleshooting common issues, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.

Understanding the Basics of Controller Configuration

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's cover some essential groundwork. Configuring your controller for PES 2013 involves more than just plugging it in. You need to ensure your computer recognizes the controller, the game detects it, and the button mappings are correct. This might sound like a lot, but trust me, it’s quite straightforward. To kick things off, it's important to know what type of controller you're using. Is it an Xbox controller, a PlayStation controller, or a generic gamepad? The type of controller will influence the steps you need to take.

First, ensure your controller is properly connected to your PC. For wired controllers, this means plugging it into a USB port. For wireless controllers, make sure they are paired via Bluetooth or a USB dongle. Once connected, Windows should automatically detect the controller and install the necessary drivers. You can verify this by going to your Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar). Look for your controller under the “Human Interface Devices” or “Xbox Peripherals” sections. If you see a yellow exclamation mark next to the device, it indicates a driver issue, which we'll address later.

Next, understand that PES 2013, like many older PC games, might not natively support all modern controllers. This is where tools like x360ce come in handy. x360ce is a free emulator that tricks the game into thinking your controller is an Xbox 360 controller, which is almost universally supported. We'll delve into how to use x360ce in the subsequent sections. Keep in mind that the configuration process may vary slightly depending on your controller type and operating system, but the underlying principles remain the same. So, buckle up, and let’s get your controller ready to dominate the virtual pitch!

Step-by-Step Guide to Configuring Your Controller

Alright, let’s get down to the real deal. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to configuring your controller for PES 2013 on your PC. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be playing like a pro in no time!

1. Connect Your Controller:

   • Wired Controllers: Simply plug the USB cable into an available port on your computer. Wait for Windows to recognize the device and install the drivers automatically. If the drivers don't install, you might need to download them from the controller manufacturer's website.
   • Wireless Controllers:
     • Bluetooth: Enable Bluetooth on your PC and put your controller into pairing mode (usually by holding down a specific button). Select the controller from the list of available devices and follow the on-screen instructions.
     • USB Dongle: Plug the USB dongle into your PC, and the controller should connect automatically. You might need to install drivers if prompted.

2. Download and Install x360ce:

   • Go to the x360ce website (search for "x360ce GitHub" to find the official repository) and download the latest version of the software.
   • Extract the downloaded ZIP file to a folder on your computer. It’s a good idea to create a new folder specifically for this purpose.

3. Place x360ce in Your PES 2013 Directory:

   • Navigate to the folder where you installed PES 2013. This is usually something like C:\Program Files (x86)\Konami\Pro Evolution Soccer 2013.
   • Copy the x360ce.exe file and the xinput1_3.dll (or a similar named .dll file, depending on the x360ce version) from the x360ce folder into the PES 2013 directory.

4. Run x360ce as Administrator:

   • Right-click on x360ce.exe in the PES 2013 directory and select "Run as administrator." This is crucial for the program to work correctly.
   • If prompted, allow the program to access your system.

5. Configure Your Controller in x360ce:

   • x360ce should automatically detect your controller. If it doesn't, you might need to click the "Search automatically for settings" button.
   • Go through each button and axis setting to ensure they are correctly mapped to your controller. You can test each button by pressing it on your controller and observing the corresponding action in x360ce.
   • If the mappings are incorrect, you can manually assign each button and axis by selecting the appropriate input from the dropdown menus.
   • Pay special attention to the D-pad and analog sticks, as these are critical for player movement and tactics.

6. Save and Exit x360ce:

   • Once you are satisfied with the configuration, click the "Save" button in x360ce.
   • Close the x360ce application.

7. Launch PES 2013 and Test Your Controller:

   • Start PES 2013 and go to the controller settings menu (usually found under "System Settings" or a similar option).
   • Check if the game recognizes your controller. If it does, you should be able to navigate the menus using your gamepad.
   • Start a match and test all the buttons to ensure they function as expected. If any buttons are not working correctly, go back to x360ce and adjust the mappings accordingly.

By following these steps, you should have your controller perfectly configured for PES 2013 on your PC. Remember to run x360ce as an administrator and save your settings after making changes. Now, get ready to experience the beautiful game like never before!

Troubleshooting Common Controller Issues

Even with the best instructions, you might run into some snags. Here are a few common issues you might encounter while configuring your controller for PES 2013 and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Controller Not Detected:

   • Problem: Your PC or x360ce doesn’t recognize the controller.
   • Solution:
     • Check the Connection: Ensure the controller is properly connected to your PC. If it’s a wired controller, try a different USB port. For wireless controllers, make sure Bluetooth is enabled or the USB dongle is correctly plugged in.
     • Update Drivers: Go to Device Manager and check if the controller has any driver issues (indicated by a yellow exclamation mark). If so, right-click on the device and select "Update driver." Choose the option to search automatically for updated drivers.
     • Restart Your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve detection issues.
     • Test on Another Game: Try using the controller with another game to see if the problem is specific to PES 2013 or a more general issue.

2. x360ce Not Working:

   • Problem: x360ce doesn’t seem to be affecting the game.
   • Solution:
     • Run as Administrator: Ensure you are running x360ce.exe as an administrator.
     • Correct Directory: Make sure the x360ce.exe and xinput1_3.dll files are in the same directory as the PES 2013 executable.
     • Compatibility Mode: Try running x360ce in compatibility mode for Windows XP or Windows 7. Right-click on the x360ce.exe file, select "Properties," go to the "Compatibility" tab, and check the box that says "Run this program in compatibility mode for."
     • Firewall/Antivirus: Check if your firewall or antivirus software is blocking x360ce. Add the program to the list of exceptions or temporarily disable the software to see if that resolves the issue.

3. Incorrect Button Mappings:

   • Problem: Buttons are not mapped correctly in the game.
   • Solution:
     • Reconfigure in x360ce: Open x360ce and carefully reconfigure each button and axis. Test each mapping to ensure it corresponds to the correct action.
     • Save Settings: Make sure to save the settings in x360ce after making changes.
     • Check In-Game Settings: Some games allow you to remap buttons within the game settings. Check if PES 2013 has this option and adjust the mappings accordingly.

4. Controller Lag or Input Delay:

   • Problem: There’s a noticeable delay between pressing a button and the action happening in the game.
   • Solution:
     • Disable V-Sync: In the game settings, try disabling Vertical Sync (V-Sync). This can sometimes reduce input lag.
     • Lower Graphics Settings: Reducing the game’s graphics settings can also help improve performance and reduce input delay.
     • Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background, as they can consume system resources and cause input lag.
     • Update Graphics Drivers: Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause performance issues.

By systematically addressing these common issues, you can often resolve most controller problems and get back to enjoying PES 2013 without frustration. Remember to take your time, follow the steps carefully, and don't hesitate to consult online forums or communities for further assistance. Happy gaming!

Alternative Controller Configuration Tools

While x360ce is a popular and effective tool, it's not the only option available. Here are a few alternative controller configuration tools you might want to explore:

1. DS4Windows:

   • Purpose: Specifically designed for PlayStation 4 (DualShock 4) controllers.
   • Features: Allows you to use your PS4 controller on Windows as if it were an Xbox 360 controller. Supports Bluetooth and USB connections, button remapping, and customizable profiles.
   • Why Use It: If you're primarily using a PS4 controller, DS4Windows offers a more streamlined and optimized experience compared to generic emulators.

2. InputMapper:

   • Purpose: Another versatile tool for using PlayStation controllers on Windows.
   • Features: Similar to DS4Windows, InputMapper allows you to emulate Xbox 360 or DualShock 4 controllers. It also supports button remapping, profile creation, and advanced features like touchpad and motion control emulation.
   • Why Use It: InputMapper is a good alternative to DS4Windows if you're looking for additional customization options and support for a wider range of PlayStation controllers.

3. Steam Controller Configuration:

   • Purpose: Built into the Steam client, this feature allows you to configure almost any controller for use with games on Steam.
   • Features: Supports a wide variety of controllers, including Xbox, PlayStation, and generic gamepads. Offers extensive customization options, including button remapping, joystick sensitivity adjustments, and action layers.
   • Why Use It: If you're playing PES 2013 through Steam, using the built-in controller configuration can be a convenient and effective solution. It eliminates the need for additional software and provides a unified configuration experience.

4. AntiMicro:

   • Purpose: A free and open-source program that allows you to map keyboard and mouse actions to your gamepad.
   • Features: Supports a wide range of controllers and offers extensive customization options. Ideal for games that don't natively support controllers or require complex keyboard inputs.
   • Why Use It: If PES 2013 has compatibility issues with your controller, AntiMicro can be used to map the game's keyboard controls to your gamepad, providing a workaround solution.

Before trying these alternative tools, make sure to uninstall any existing controller configuration software to avoid conflicts. Each tool has its own set of instructions and features, so take some time to explore and find the one that best suits your needs. With the right tool, you can enjoy a seamless and personalized gaming experience on PES 2013.

Conclusion

Configuring your controller for PES 2013 on PC might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a straightforward process. By understanding the basics of controller configuration, following the step-by-step instructions, and troubleshooting common issues, you can get your gamepad perfectly set up for the game. Whether you're using x360ce or exploring alternative tools like DS4Windows, InputMapper, Steam Controller Configuration, or AntiMicro, the key is to find the solution that works best for your controller and gaming setup.

Remember to always run configuration tools as an administrator, ensure your drivers are up to date, and test your settings thoroughly. Don't be afraid to experiment and seek help from online communities if you run into any difficulties. Once you've successfully configured your controller, you'll be able to fully immerse yourself in the nostalgia and excitement of PES 2013, scoring goals, making skillful plays, and reliving the glory days of this iconic football game. So, grab your controller, follow these tips, and get ready to dominate the virtual pitch!