How To Easily Connect And Configure Two Controllers On Ryujinx For Seamless Multiplayer Gaming

Emulating Nintendo Switch games on PC opens up a world of possibilities, especially when it comes to multiplayer experiences. With Ryujinx, one of the most advanced open-source Switch emulators, playing local co-op or versus games with a friend is entirely feasible—provided you can properly set up multiple controllers. While the process may seem daunting at first, configuring two controllers in Ryujinx is straightforward once you understand the system’s input architecture and follow a clear sequence of steps. This guide walks you through everything from hardware compatibility to in-game testing, ensuring a smooth, lag-free dual-controller setup.

Understanding Controller Support in Ryujinx

Ryujinx supports a wide range of input devices, including official Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, Xbox and PlayStation gamepads, and even generic USB or Bluetooth controllers. The emulator maps inputs using SDL (Simple DirectMedia Layer), which means any controller recognized by your operating system as an SDL-compatible device should work. However, not all controllers are treated equally—some require additional calibration or third-party tools to function correctly.

The key to running two-player gameplay lies in proper device detection and profile assignment within Ryujinx. Each player must be assigned a distinct controller profile under the “Input” settings, and both controllers need to register unique button mappings to avoid input conflicts. Unlike the physical Switch, where pairing Joy-Cons via Bluetooth is automatic, Ryujinx relies on manual configuration through its GUI.

“Proper controller mapping is often the difference between a frustrating emulation experience and a near-native gameplay session.” — Adrian Kim, Emulation Software Developer

Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting Two Controllers

Follow this timeline to successfully connect and configure two controllers in Ryujinx:

1. Connect Both Controllers: Plug in your first controller via USB or pair it via Bluetooth. Repeat for the second controller. Ensure both are powered on and detected by your OS.
2. Launch Ryujinx: Open the emulator. Do not start a game yet.
3. Navigate to Input Settings: Click “Options” → “Settings,” then select the “Input” tab on the left.
4. Assign Player 1: Under “Profiles,” choose “Player 1.” Set “Device Type” to “Keyboard” or “Gamepad,” depending on your controller. If using a gamepad, select the correct SDL device from the dropdown.
5. Map Controls: Click “Configure” and press each button as prompted (A, B, X, Y, sticks, triggers, etc.). Save after completion.
6. Repeat for Player 2: Create or select “Player 2,” assign the second controller, and map its buttons identically but using the physical inputs of the second device.
7. Test Inputs: Use the “Test” button in the configuration window to verify that both controllers respond independently.
8. Launch a Multiplayer Game: Start a title like Super Mario Party, Overcooked! All You Can Eat, or Kirby Fighters 2 to confirm dual-input functionality.

Tip: Rename your controller profiles (e.g., “Xbox Pad – Player 1”) to avoid confusion during future sessions.

Recommended Controllers and Compatibility Notes

Not all controllers deliver the same experience in Ryujinx. Below is a comparison of popular options and their reliability in dual-controller setups:

Controller	Connection	Plug-and-Play?	Notes
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller	USB / Bluetooth	Yes (with Bluetooth driver)	Best compatibility; mimics native feel
Xbox Wireless Controller (Series X|S)	USB / Bluetooth	Yes	Reliable SDL detection; ideal for Player 2
DualShock 4	USB / Bluetooth	Limited	May require DS4Windows for full analog support
Generic USB Gamepad	USB only	Sometimes	Check SDL2 GameController DB entry; may need remapping
Switch Joy-Con (Single or Paired)	Bluetooth only	No	Requires re-pairing via HID mode; unstable in multi-controller setups

For consistent performance, use wired connections whenever possible. Bluetooth introduces latency and potential disconnection issues, especially when running multiple wireless devices simultaneously.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Controller Crosstalk: When both players’ inputs register on the same profile. Fix by ensuring each player uses a separate, correctly assigned device in settings.
• Unresponsive Buttons: Often due to incorrect SDL mapping. Re-run the configuration wizard or check if another application (like Steam) is intercepting input.
• Sticks Drifting in-Game: Calibrate deadzones under “Advanced” settings in the input configuration. A deadzone of 0.15–0.20 usually prevents false inputs.
• One Controller Works, Second Doesn’t: Confirm that Windows (or Linux) detects both devices. Use a tool like Gamepad Tester online to validate detection before launching Ryujinx.

Tip: Close background applications like Steam, Discord overlay, or GeForce Experience that may hijack controller input.

Real Example: Setting Up Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Jamie wanted to play Overcooked! All You Can Eat with her brother using Ryujinx on her Windows laptop. She owned an Xbox Series X controller and borrowed a Switch Pro Controller. Initially, only her Xbox pad worked. After checking Ryujinx’s input menu, she realized the Pro Controller wasn’t selected for Player 2. She reassigned it, re-mapped the buttons, and adjusted the deadzone for the right stick, which had been causing erratic movement. Upon restarting the game, both players could move independently without input lag. The session lasted over three hours with no disconnects—proof that a well-configured setup delivers console-like reliability.

Essential Configuration Checklist

Use this checklist before starting any multiplayer session:

• ✅ Both controllers are physically connected and powered on
• ✅ Operating system recognizes both devices (verify in Game Controllers panel)
• ✅ No other apps are using the controllers (Steam, Epic, etc.)
• ✅ Player 1 and Player 2 profiles are created in Ryujinx Input settings
• ✅ Each profile is assigned to the correct SDL device
• ✅ All buttons and sticks are mapped and tested
• ✅ Deadzones are adjusted (especially for analog sticks)
• ✅ A multiplayer-compatible game is loaded and tested

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use two different types of controllers?

Yes. Ryujinx allows mixed controller setups—for example, an Xbox controller for Player 1 and a Switch Pro Controller for Player 2. Just ensure each is correctly mapped under its respective profile.

Why does my second controller stop working mid-game?

This often happens with Bluetooth controllers due to signal interference or power-saving modes. Switch to wired USB connections or disable USB selective suspend in Windows Power Options to maintain stable communication.

Do I need to reconfigure controllers every time I launch Ryujinx?

No. Once profiles are saved, they persist across sessions. However, if you unplug and replug controllers in a different order, Ryujinx might assign them incorrectly. Always verify device assignments in settings after rebooting.

Final Steps for Seamless Multiplayer

After configuration, test your setup with a game that supports local multiplayer from the start. Titles like Snipperclips or Just Dance offer immediate feedback on whether both controllers are functioning. If inputs are delayed or inconsistent, revisit the deadzone and sensitivity settings. Also, ensure your PC meets the performance requirements for the game—low FPS can mimic input lag.

Keep Ryujinx updated. Newer versions frequently improve input handling and add support for previously incompatible devices. The development team actively patches bugs related to multi-controller setups, so staying current enhances stability.

“Multiplayer emulation isn’t just about performance—it’s about replicating the social joy of couch co-op. Getting the controls right is the first step.” — Lila Torres, Retro Gaming Community Lead

Conclusion: Bring the Fun Back to Local Play

Setting up two controllers on Ryujinx doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right hardware, careful configuration, and a few best practices, you can recreate the shared excitement of local multiplayer gaming on your PC. Whether you're teaming up in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or competing in 1-2-Switch minigames, a properly tuned dual-controller setup makes all the difference. Take the time to configure your devices now, save the profiles, and invite a friend over for a nostalgic—or brand-new—gaming session. The living room experience is just a few clicks away.

💬 Got a favorite multiplayer game on Ryujinx? Share your setup tips and recommended titles in the comments below and help others build better co-op experiences!