8BitDo Pro 2 game controller stopped working on macOS Sequoia

I had a similar issue with my 8bitdo Ultimate controller after updating to macOS 15.4—additionally when I went to Gaming Controller settings in System Settings and clicked on the 8bitdo Controller the settings extension crashed.

In the process of gathering data to submit a bug report to Apple, I discovered that clicking the 8bitdo controller in Gaming Controller settings worked when the controller was disconnected.

Doing this once while the controller was disconnected seemed to fix the problem, and the controller is now working, and I can click on the controller settings when it's connected without the settings extension crashing.

See how you go following these steps:

1. Disconnect the 8bitdo controller
2. Open System Settings
3. Select Gaming Controllers in the sidebar
4. Click the 8bitdo controller to view its settings
5. Click Done to close the controller settings
6. Connect the 8bitdo controller

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

The same problem with Xbox when you are trying to connect it via USB. Still works wirelessly.

Interesting point that some of the programs are still working (Maybe there are some API changes and some programs are using outdated API, or something like this). Game Controller Tester - Works perfectly. But another program like Chrome (checked different sites for controller support), JoystickMonitor are not work.

Temporary solution:

• Settings -> Game Controllers -> {Your controller} -> Add specific game (Heroic, browser, whatever) -> Increase controller compatibility = On

But this solution is not applicable to Wine

Many users have been facing this bug since they updated to >=15.4:

https://steamcommunity.com/discussions/forum/2/601900462106531272/

https://www.reddit.com/r/macgaming/comments/1ju5ezn/mac_os_wired_xbox_controllers_are_broken/

I am experiencing the same issue with both my 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4g and my XBox Elite gamepads ever since updating to Sequoia 15.4. Both Steam and FFXIV recognize the controller exists, however they won't recognize any inputs from the controller. Of note, they both work perfectly when paired with other devices, and the input can be seen on the Mac running 15.4 using an HTML5 gamepad tester in Chrome.

I did find that a PS4 controller I had spare does seem to work for me in 15.4 until a fix for 8BitDo and XBox controller compatibility is made.

Same issue - had 8bitDo Ultimate Wireless 2.4g working perfectly across BT with Crossover 25 prior to macOS update to 15.4.1. Since update, it shows connected and full readouts through Hardwaretester site, but Sys Settings Game Controller config crashes and Crossover 25 fails to detect it for any game, despite all readouts. I tried the suggestions here but no joy. Anyone get any dice since they posted?

What did the developers of the controller say about the incompatibility with Sequoia?

Unfortunately, I have the same problem. My controller works fine on 15.3.2 but not on 15.4.

Hi,

I have the same issue... not been able to make it work again. Would love a tip if you managed to solve the issue.

Thanks.

I own a 8bitdo ultimate 2.4g and it’s the same for me. Everything worked until I updated my MacBook air m2 to 15.4.1. This is so annoying.