Why is My Gamepad Not Working with GeForce NOW on Meta Quest? (And How to Fix It)

Why is My Gamepad Not Working with GeForce NOW on Meta Quest? (And How to Fix It)

You’ve set up GeForce NOW on your Meta Quest, you’re ready to play, but your gamepad isn’t working! Don’t worry; this is a common issue. Here’s a breakdown of why it happens and how to fix it:

The Main Reason: VR Controller Conflict

The primary reason your gamepad might not be working is that the Meta Quest’s built-in VR controllers are taking priority. GeForce NOW on Meta Quest is designed to work with specific Bluetooth gamepads, not the Quest’s VR controllers. The headset may default to the VR controllers even when a gamepad is connected. You also cannot use a mouse and keyboard to play games, only to control the app.

Solution: Prioritize Your Gamepad

  1. Connect your Gamepad to the Quest: Ensure your supported Bluetooth gamepad is correctly paired and connected to your Meta Quest headset. You can do this through the Meta Quest settings under “Bluetooth Devices.”
  2. Disable Hand Tracking: Disable hand tracking on the headset.

Officially Supported Gamepads

It’s crucial to use a supported gamepad. Currently, GeForce NOW on Meta Quest officially supports the following:

  • Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller (Model 1708, Model 1914)
  • Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Model 1797)

Troubleshooting Steps

  • Restart Your Headset: A simple restart can often resolve connection issues.
  • Check Gamepad Battery: Make sure your gamepad has sufficient battery power.
  • Forget and Re-pair: In your Meta Quest’s Bluetooth settings, try “forgetting” your gamepad and then re-pairing it.
  • Check for Updates: Ensure both your Meta Quest headset and your gamepad’s firmware are up to date.

Important Note: You will need to use the VR controllers in order to login, the gamepad does not work for the login screen, send feedback, and other options in the GeForce NOW app.

Get Back in the Game

By following these steps, you should be able to get your gamepad working correctly with GeForce NOW on your Meta Quest.

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