Co-op, Controls & Saves
Identify the symptom before changing inputs or saves. False controller detection, duplicate Xbox input, joining a hosted game and importing a demo character require different actions.
What is happening in your game?
Match the symptom, make the first check, then open the detailed steps.
I want to host or join a friend
Use the in-game Online route and the host’s world.
Host or join online →My Xbox controller sends duplicate input
Try the reversible Steam Input override for this symptom; keep gamepad input enabled.
Check duplicate input →A keyboard peripheral triggers controller popups
The developer’s XML workaround disables controller input. Use it only when you do not need a gamepad.
Stop false controller detection →I want to bring a demo character over
Check the first-launch import conditions. Demo characters and demo worlds have different compatibility.
Check character import →I want to inspect world settings
Start with a backup copy. The community editor route has not been tested here through an in-game restore.
Read the world-copy steps →Join or host an online world
Follow the host-and-join task before assuming a headless server exists.
Fix the input symptom you actually have
Keep controllers enabled when you want gamepads; the false-detection XML workaround disables their input.
Transfer or inspect a save safely
A character import and an unofficial edit of a world copy are different file operations.
Quick questions
Local and mixed co-op entry points
The community Getting Started guide uses Start for solo/local play and Online for online or mixed play. A September 23 developer reply caps local split screen at four and mixed play at eight. The online hosting guide does not cover the complete extra-controller joining sequence.
Read the dated source ↗Steam Deck compatibility
The September 15 developer announcement reports Steam Deck Verified and full controller support. Keep controller input enabled when playing through gamepad controls; the false-detection workaround is intended for unwanted peripheral detection, not a performance preset.
Read the dated source ↗