Gamepad Support Add-on

This add-on provides NVDA with support for XInput-compatible gamepads (such as Xbox controllers, mainstream PC gamepads, etc.). With this add-on, users can map gamepad buttons to NVDA commands or keyboard shortcuts, enabling one-handed computer operation via a controller.

General Information

• Add-on Name: Gamepad Support
• Author: Shunxian Wu PurrHare@outlook.com
• Tested Version: NVDA 2025.1
• License: GPL v3
• Official Website: NVDA Chinese Community
• Repository: GitHub Repository

Features

• XInput Integration: Based on the XInput 1.4 standard, offering high compatibility and ultra-low latency.
• Full Button Recognition:
  • D-Pad: Up, Down, Left, Right.
  • Action Buttons: A, B, X, Y.
  • Shoulder Buttons: LB, RB.
  • Thumbstick Clicks: L_Thumb (Left stick click), R_Thumb (Right stick click).
  • Menu Buttons: Start, Back.
• Smart Trigger Detection: Simulates LT and RT linear triggers as standard binary buttons. Includes pressure threshold logic to prevent accidental triggers.
• Native Gesture Support: All gamepad inputs are registered as standard NVDA "gestures," allowing flexible configuration just like keyboard shortcuts.
• Performance Optimization:
  • Active Mode: Polls at 100Hz when a gamepad is connected for responsive input.
  • Idle Mode: Automatically switches to a 5-second low-frequency scan when disconnected to save CPU resources.

User Guide

After installing the add-on and connecting your gamepad:

1. Press NVDA + 1 to turn on Input Help and test if gamepad button presses are announced correctly.
2. Open the NVDA Menu (NVDA + N).
3. Go to Preferences (P) -> Input Gestures (N)....
4. Select an NVDA command, click the Add (A) button, and then press the gamepad button you wish to bind.

FAQ

Q: Why is my gamepad not responding? A: Please ensure your gamepad supports XInput mode (standard on most modern PC controllers). You can check the NVDA log; if it shows "Gamepad connected," the device is recognized.

Q: Why use XInput 1.4 only? A: This ensures compatibility with the native drivers in Windows 8 and above. If you are using an older version of Windows, you may need to update your DirectX runtime libraries.

Contribution & Feedback

If you encounter bugs or have functional suggestions, please contact us via: * Submit an issue on GitHub Issues. * Join the discussion at the Chinese community NVDA Chinese community.