Controller Support Guide
Ore Factory Squad controller support after v1.0.1: tutorial fixes, gamepad bindings, co-op tips, and planned QoL updates from threeW.
Controller Support at Launch
Ore Factory Squad launched on Steam July 16, 2026 with full controller play alongside keyboard and mouse. The v1.0.1 hotfix the same day addressed critical gamepad issues: a tutorial softlock on controller, wrong application opening during the stock-selling tutorial step, and broader controller support improvements. threeW stated additional controller quality-of-life work is planned for a future update — bookmark the v1.0.1 patch notes and updates hub for follow-up news.
Factory sims on gamepad demand careful binding layout — mining tools, build mode, vehicle enter, and dynamite placement share dense face buttons. PC players switching to couch co-op should remap before accepting timed contracts.
Keyboard reference on keyboard and mouse controls; vehicle-specific bindings on vehicle controls.
v1.0.1 Tutorial Fixes for Gamepad
If a squad member softlocked in tutorial on controller before v1.0.1, update Steam and restart on a fresh tutorial property — mid-save tutorial states may remain broken. The stock-selling step previously opened the wrong application when using a gamepad; patched behavior routes to the correct UI flow.
New players on gamepad should complete tutorial co-op with one keyboard user if possible — the foreman can navigate warehouse terminals while the controller player focuses on mining until everyone learns menu flow.
Compare demo v1.7.0 keybinding menu expansion — full binding list applies to controller mappings where supported in your build.
Watch Video Guide
Recommended Gamepad Layout
Keep interact, tool swap, and build mode on separate buttons to avoid accidental dynamite in co-op. Sprint on a shoulder button preserves thumbstick movement while hauling ore to the Modular Mining Lift. Push-to-talk on a paddle or D-pad direction prevents open-mic factory noise when using voice chat.
Vehicle mode swaps the control scheme — verify enter/exit bindings do not overlap with hand-tool detonate keys. Test forklift raise/lower in an empty yard before contract crunch.
Steam Input lets squads save per-game layouts — export profiles for four-player groups with mixed gamepad and keyboard setups.
Co-op With Mixed Input
Four-player squads often mix keyboard miners and controller builders — agree who owns build mode placement and demolition to prevent fighting over ghost previews. Voice callouts matter more when gamepad players cannot ping as fast as mouse users.
Host should update all clients to v1.0.2+ before gamepad-heavy sessions — private lobby visibility, server browser listing, and connection fixes in v1.0.2 stack with v1.0.1 networking improvements. See co-op guide and v1.0.2 patch notes for lobby-specific fixes.
Emote clipping through walls was fixed in v1.0.1 — still avoid emoting in tight lift chokepoints where foot traffic overlaps.
When to Prefer Keyboard
Conveyor debugging and precise machine rotation benefit from mouse look — assign controller players to mining and driving while keyboard users handle factory layout during mid-game expansion. Not a hard rule, but reduces placement errors on dense smelter rows.
Achievement hunting with tight timing may feel easier on mouse for some players — rotate roles each session so controller users learn layout tools too.
If future patches expand controller QoL as threeW teased, this guide will update with new binding options and menu navigation shortcuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ore Factory Squad support controller at launch?
Yes on Steam PC — v1.0.1 improved tutorial and general gamepad support after day-one reports.
Was there a controller tutorial bug?
Yes — v1.0.1 fixed softlocks and wrong UI during stock selling on gamepad. Update before tutorial.
Can I remap all controller buttons?
Full keybinding menu from demo v1.7.0 includes controller mappings where the game exposes them — check Settings → Controls.
Is controller good for factory building?
Playable but mouse users often place machines faster — mixed squads split roles by input type.
Are more controller fixes coming?
threeW noted ongoing QoL controller work after v1.0.1 — watch Steam news for future patches.