A virtual game controller emulation driver
ViGEm Bus Driver, developed by Nefarius Software Solutions e.U., is a free kernel-mode driver designed to enable virtual game controller emulation. It allows the creation of virtual Xbox 360 and DualShock 4 controllers, improving compatibility for applications that rely on standard game controller input.
Its primary function is to emulate recognized controllers at the system level, enabling software to interact with these virtual devices as though they were physical hardware. However, the driver is available only for Windows, as it relies on Windows-specific kernel architecture.
After installation, ViGEm Bus Driver works automatically in the background. You don’t need to adjust complex settings or run it manually. Instead, other programs that support ViGEm—like controller or input-mapping tools—connect to it to create and manage virtual game controllers when needed.
Effortless virtual gamepad setup
Because the driver works deep within the system, the virtual controllers it creates are treated just like real ones. This means any game or app that supports a standard controller, such as an Xbox 360 or DualShock 4, can recognize and use them without extra setup. This simplifies the experience for users wanting to employ alternative or customized controllers that may lack direct support in their games.
A practical foundation for virtual controller support
ViGEm Bus Driver provides a free and stable solution for users who need to emulate virtual Xbox 360 and DualShock 4 controllers. Its kernel-mode design enables virtual controllers to integrate smoothly with the system, improving compatibility with a wide range of applications and input tools. Overall, its stability and ease of use make it a practical foundation for software that enhances controller compatibility and gaming support.
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Stable kernel-level performance
- Smooth system integration
Cons
- Windows-only support
