How to Change the Steam Input Per-Game Setting to Forced Off

If you’re an avid gamer using Steam, you may have encountered issues with game controller configurations. Sometimes, the default Steam Input settings can interfere with your gameplay, leading to confusion and frustration. A common solution is to change the Steam Input Per-Game Setting to “Forced Off.” In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to do this effectively. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to optimize your gaming experience.

Understanding Steam Input

Steam Input is a feature that allows you to customize and configure your game controller settings for a variety of games. By default, many games use the Steam Input system to interpret and manage controller commands. While this can be beneficial for most scenarios, certain games may work better with a specific configuration, and thus turning off Steam Input may provide a smoother experience.

Why Force Off Steam Input?

There are several reasons why you might want to disable Steam Input for a game. Owners of specialized controllers or those who prefer traditional keyboard and mouse setups might find that Steam’s input handling sometimes conflicts with their preferences. Additionally, some games, particularly older titles or those developed with specific hardware in mind, may perform better without Steam Input.

Steps to Change Steam Input Per-Game Setting to Forced Off

Step 1: Launch Steam and Access Your Library

Begin by launching the Steam client on your computer. Once Steam is open, navigate to your Library. This is where all your purchased games are stored.

Step 2: Locate the Game

Find the game for which you want to disable Steam Input. You can browse your library or use the search bar for quicker access.

Step 3: Access Game Properties

Once you’ve selected your game, right-click on its title in the left-column menu. This will open a context menu. From this menu, select “Properties.” This opens the game-specific settings where you can make several adjustments.

Step 4: Navigate to Controller Options

In the game properties window, look for the “Controller” tab on the left side. Click on this tab to access the controller configuration settings.

Step 5: Adjust Steam Input Settings

Within the controller options, you’ll see a dropdown menu labeled “Steam Input Per-Game Setting.” Click on this dropdown to reveal the available options.

Step 6: Select ‘Forced Off’

From the dropdown menu, select “Forced Off.” This will disable Steam Input for the selected game, ensuring that any controller inputs are managed directly by the game itself, rather than through Steam.

Step 7: Save Changes

After selecting “Forced Off,” close the properties window. Steam typically saves changes automatically, but it’s good practice to ensure that your selection is reflected in the settings.

Step 8: Restart the Game

To fully apply the changes, it’s advisable to restart the game if it was open when you made these adjustments. This ensures that all settings take effect immediately and allows you to experience the game with the new configuration.

Additional Tips

Test Different Games: If you’re unsure whether a particular game benefits from having Steam Input disabled, try experimenting. Change the setting back and forth to notice any performance variations or personal preferences.
Keep Your Controller Updated: Sometimes issues may arise from outdated drivers or firmware for your controllers. Make sure your device’s software is up to date for optimal performance.
Seek Online Forums for Game-Specific Advice: Certain games often have dedicated communities discussing the best controls and settings. Visiting these forums can provide additional insights into whether disabling Steam Input is recommended for specific titles.

Conclusion

Changing the Steam Input Per-Game Setting to “Forced Off” is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your gaming experience, particularly for those who have specific preferences regarding controller use. Whether due to preference for traditional controls or trouble with game compatibility, adjusting these settings can lead to a smoother and more enjoyable gaming session. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily optimize your controls and focus on what truly matters: enjoying your games. Happy gaming!