Configuring Controllers

This page explains how to configure controllers in Dolphin, assuming the controller is connected and working with your system. If you need help, or want game-specific configurations, see the forums.

GameCube controller
Before setting up a GameCube pad, go to the Dolphin config and click the "Gamecube" tab.



Here, you can set what is plugged into the various GameCube emulated ports. If you wish to use more than one GCpad, make sure you set the correct number in this window.

After you select what do you want to use, go to "GCpad" window to configure your controllers.



Choose any device that is connected to your PC, and set the buttons and axes to your liking.
 * Left click a slot to detect input, then press a button or axes on your selected controller and to save it to that slot.
 * Middle click a slot to clear it of inputs.
 * Right click a slot to show more input options.

If you controller supports it, "Rumble" will allow your controller to experience the GameCube's rumble functionality. Once in the window, click on the motor pattern you wish to use (sine, cosine, etc), and press "Select" to apply it. If you wish to add a second pattern, with your existing pattern still there, click another pattern and press "|OR". Hit OK to accept the changes and exit the window.

Background input lets you use the controller even if Dolphin isn't in focus.

"Profile" allows you to import/export input configs.

After setting up everything that you want, click "OK" and the changes will save.

Wii Remote


Dolphin can use both real and emulated Wiimotes.

Real Wiimote
Select Real Remote in the dropdown for a Wiimote slot. Dolphin supports up to 4 Real Wiimotes at once, along with any peripherals you have attached to them.


 * On Windows: to connect a Real Wiimote, press Pair Up then press the "1" and "2" buttons on your wiimote simultaneously.
 * On Linux there is no need for a Pair up button. Just press the "1" and "2" buttons on your wiimote simultaneously. Your Wiimote will shake to confirm it is connected. Press refresh if the connection did not succeed the first time. Alternatively you can connect the controller just before starting a game by pressing "1" and "2".

If a game thinks a wiimote has been disconnected during play, pressing "Alt-F5" may correct it.

Dolphin does not automatically turn off Wii Remotes as the Wii will, remember to turn off controllers on your own to save battery power.

Emulated Wiimote


Emulated remote works in the same way as the GCpad settings. Choose any device that is connected to your PC, and set the buttons and axes to your liking.
 * Left click a slot to detect input, then press a button or axes on your selected controller and to save it to that slot.
 * Middle click a slot to clear it of inputs.
 * Right click a slot to show more input options.

Extension Allows you to add an emulated nunchuk, guitar, or other wiimote peripheral. Select the extension you want to emulate in the dropdown, and press configure to open a window with slots just like the emulated wiimote window. Select buttons and axes as you wish, and press OK to save.

Background input lets you use the controller even if Dolphin isn't in focus.

Sideways Wiimote changes the emulated wiimote controls to allow you to play games as though the wiimote is sideways, without actually changing your controls. It is useful for games such as New Super Mario Bros. Wii that are designed for it.

Upright Wiimote alters the base swinging and tilting orientation of the emulated wiimote to the upright position.

If you controller supports it, "Rumble" will allow your controller to experience the Wiimote's rumble functionality. Once in the window, click on the motor pattern you wish to use (sine, cosine, etc), and press "Select" to apply it. If you wish to add a second pattern, with your existing pattern still there, click another pattern and press "|OR". Hit OK to accept the changes and exit the window.

"Profile" allows you to import/export input configs.

After setting up everything that you want, click "OK" and the changes will save.