Does Monster Hunter Outlanders Support Bluetooth Controllers? Answered

For today’s mobile game, having Bluetooth controller functionality is practically a must. While more often than not they support virtual joystick and buttons, some players might still find them inadequate replacements. Fingers could easily block the view, while pressing and swiping the touchscreen could feel finicky. No doubt that Hunters who’ve spent years hunting Rathians with controllers might feel awkward using them too. With that considered, one question pops up: Does TiMi Studio’s Monster Hunter Outlanders support Bluetooth controllers?

[Updated on October 30th, 2026]

Can You Use Controllers for Monster Hunter Outlanders?

Yes, Monster Hunter Outlanders officially supports Bluetooth controllers as of its October 29 launch. Just as the Closed Beta 3’s “controller support is in development” message promised. However, that doesn’t mean you can just sit back and stream your phone to a bigger screen, because the implementation is far from proper, full support.

We tested the feature using DualShock 4 and DualSense, and both worked ‘fine’ during regular hunts. With that in mind, other Bluetooth gamepads, including Xbox, 8BitDo, and GameSir controllers, should work as well. Although, inputs will be automatically changed to Classic Mode, and you cannot access Adventure Mode if you’re on a controller.

Once your gamepad is connected and detected, the game will display a “Controller Switch Confirmation” window. A Controller option will also appear in the Settings menu, where you can customize button assignments to your liking.

Unfortunately, that’s where the convenience stops. For some reason, all tutorial sections and prompts still require touchscreen inputs. This wouldn’t be too annoying if tutorials ended after the opening chapter — but no, you still have to deal with basic how-tos well into Chapter 3.

The incompatibility extends to Guild Carnival rhythm minigame and menu navigation as well. Instead of letting you cycle through menus using the D-pad or analog stick, Monster Hunter Outlanders basically turns your controller into a virtual mouse. The left analog stick moves the on-screen cursor, while X/A is used to select, just like tapping the screen. If you want to scroll, then you need to hold X/A and move the analog stick, mimicking a swipe. Expect having to occasionally put down your controller and lean down just to poke at the screen from time to time.

Hopefully, TiMi Studio will iron out Monster Hunter Outlanders controller and gamepad support in future updates. Until then, at least your thumbs can finally focus on hunting Radiant Rathians instead of wrestling with virtual joysticks. Just make sure to keep your phone within reach.