This is a very common situation. It's not that your controller is broken; it's that the game you're trying to play is looking for an Xbox 360 controller (XInput) while yours is a different type (DirectInput). x360ce's whole purpose is to bridge that gap, so the problem is almost always a configuration one, not a hardware failure.

Here is a comprehensive guide to understanding and resolving this error. What Causes Error Code 4?

The most common cause is Windows Defender flagging the x360ce files. Open > Virus & threat protection .

If you are trying to map your controller using the x360ce (Xbox 360 Controller Emulator) 2021 or 2022 versions, encountering the can completely halt your gaming setup. This specific error prevents the application from initializing its virtual gamepad drivers, meaning your PC won't recognize your custom controller inputs.

Ensure the [InputHook] section is configured correctly (e.g., HookCOM=1 , HookLL=1 ). If the issue persists, try setting HookLL=0 . Phase 3: Advanced System Fixes 5. Disable Tamper Protection or Smart App Control

Look for FakeAppID and ensure it is not set to 480 (a common culprit for input issues). Try setting it to 291550 or another relevant AppID. Save and restart the game. Alternative: Using Modern x360ce

This error code commonly means the application's self-defense or hooking mechanism has been prevented from running. Major causes include:

Delete the existing x360ce.exe , x360ce.ini , and xinput1_3.dll from the game folder.

Choose , click Next , and browse to the x360ce.exe file or the game executable causing the issue.