Tutorial for Using Controllers

Because of technical limitations of Java, vNES is unable to interface directly with devices that plug in to your computer, like USB controllers. In order to overcome this issue, third-party helper software can be used to allow vNES, among other programs, to work with your controller.

Notice: This document applies to USB controllers on Windows. Additional steps may be required if you usie an older controller that plugs in using the game port. The game port is no longer supported in versions of Windows after XP.

Notice: While you can use controllers with vNES in Mac OS and Linux, this tutorial does not cover those platforms.

Step 1: Installing Your Controller

To begin, please plug your controller into your computer. Using ports on the front of your computer is fine, and in most cases, using a USB hub will cause no issues. If you are experiencing issues later in this tutorial, you may want to use a port on the back of your computer.

Step 2: Downloading Joy2Key

You'll need to download Joy2Key here. After that download has completed, unzip Joy2Key, and then download J2K_Generic.cfg and put it in the folder that Joy2Key is in, which should be something like "jtk347en" unless you have renamed the folder.

If you have assigned custom keys for use with the keyboard, click here to clear those settings.

Step 3: Testing Generic Configuration

Open Joy2Key, and ensure that J2K_Generic.cfg is highlighted. Minimize Joy2Key, and open a game in vNES. Try playing using the controller (you may need to use the mouse and double-click on the screen.)

Notice: Joy2Key serves no function if it is not running. You must have Joy2Key running for it to work with vNES.

The Generic configuration that you downloaded earlier is designed to work with most USB controllers. It was designed using the Logitech Dual-Action Controller, and should be compatible with the NES to USB and SNES to USB controller adaptors.

Assuming the previous test worked, you should be able to use your controller with vNES now.