Minecraft Java Edition does not have native controller support, so you’ll need to connect your Xbox controller to Windows and use additional software to map controls.

Step 1: Connect Your Xbox Controller to Windows

1. For a wired connection, plug the USB cable into the controller and then into your PC.

2. For a wireless connection, turn on the controller and hold the pairing button until the Xbox button flashes.

3. Open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and click Add Bluetooth or other device.

4. Select Bluetooth and choose your Xbox controller from the list.

5. Verify the connection in Settings > Devices or by running joy.cpl from the Run dialog.

Step 2: Enable Controller Input for Minecraft Java

Option A – Using JoyToKey

1. Download and install JoyToKey from its official site.

2. Open JoyToKey and create a new profile for Minecraft.

3. Map each controller button to the corresponding keyboard key (e.g., left stick to WASD, A to Spacebar).

4. Keep JoyToKey running in the background while playing.