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Steam Deck - Controller Input Doesn't Work After Wake From Sleep (SteamOS 3.6.24) #1895

Description

@oopetrenko

Device: Steam Deck
SteamOS Version: 3.6.24
OS Build: 20250313.1
Kernel Version: 6.5.0-valve23-1-neptune-65-g385b5e207ae2
BIOS Version: F7A0131
Steam Version: 1745876290
Steam Client Build Date: April 29
Controller ID: MEDA22007807
Serial Number: FWAA22106D2F


Description:
After putting my Steam Deck into sleep mode while a game is running, then waking it up, the game no longer responds to controller inputs. The Steam button still works, and I can open the overlay and return to the main menu, but the game itself does not detect any input from buttons or sticks. To fix this, I need to completely quit and relaunch the game.


Steps to Reproduce:

  1. Launch a game (e.g. Batman: Arkham City, Assassin’s Creed II).
  2. Confirm controls are working normally.
  3. Let the Steam Deck go to sleep automatically or close the screen.
  4. Wake it up after a few minutes.
  5. Try to resume playing.

Expected Result:
Game resumes normally with input.

Actual Result:
Game appears active, but no buttons work until I exit and relaunch the game.


Temporary Workarounds:

  • Disabling “Use as Wake Movie” in the Customization settings.
  • Restarting Steam Deck.
  • Changing Steam Input settings (e.g. “Forced On”).
  • Switching Proton version (when using Proton).
  • None of these fully solve the issue reliably.

Notes:
This issue has been reported by multiple users on forums and Reddit. It affects a wide range of games and seems tied to how input focus or controller binding is restored after waking from sleep. The problem appeared after recent SteamOS or Steam updates.


Severity: Medium (high annoyance, breaks game continuity, no crash).

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