You can drive your EarthRover using a game controller for smoother, more precise control. This guide lists supported controllers and explains how to set them up.
Supported Game Controllers
EarthRovers work with most standard wired or wireless game controllers that your computer can recognize through the browser.
Officially Supported Controller Presets
Xbox 360 Controller
EVOFOX Controller
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (Left + Right)
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (Right)
Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (Left)
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
DualSense Wireless Controller (PlayStation 5)
💡 If your controller isn’t listed but is recognized by your computer and responds on gamepadtester.net, it will still work by selecting “No preset selected” and manually binding the controls.
How to Set It Up
Connect Your Game Controller: Connect your game controller to your computer. This can be done with a cable (wired) or via Bluetooth (wireless).
Log In and Start a Drive: Go to https://rovers.frodobots.com/ and log in. Then, start a drive session by clicking Drive.
Select Game Controller: When prompted, choose Game Controller. The option should turn green once your controller is connected.
Troubleshooting: If the button doesn't turn green, press the buttons or move the game controller sticks to activate it. You won't be able to proceed until it's green.
Click Start with Controller: Proceed by clicking this button.
Set Up Controls: Either bind the keys yourself or choose from an available preset. Remember your chosen controls so you can operate the bot correctly.
Proceed to Drive: Click Proceed to Drive in the upper right corner.
Start Driving: You are now ready to begin driving.
Troubleshooting:
If your game controller isn't being recognized or the "Game Controller" option doesn't turn green, try these steps:
Test Your Controller
Visit hardwaretester.com/gamepad or gamepadtester.net.
Press buttons or move the sticks — if inputs appear, your controller is working.
If nothing responds, the issue may be with your controller, connection, or computer.
Reconnect the Controller
Unplug and replug your wired controller.
For Bluetooth controllers, unpair and pair again.
Try another USB port or cable if available.
Check Battery (Wireless)
Ensure your wireless controller is charged or powered on.
Close Other Applications
Exit programs like Steam, Xbox Accessories, or game launchers that might be capturing controller input.
Check for Multiple Controllers
Disconnect any other game controllers, steering wheels, or joysticks plugged into your computer.
The browser may only register one controller at a time, and having multiple devices connected can block input.
Try Another Controller or Use Keyboard Controls
If the current controller still doesn’t respond, try a different controller.
You can also switch to Keyboard mode to continue driving without delay.
💡 Need help? Contact us via the chat widget, join our Discord, or email hello@frodobots.com (Mon–Fri, SGT).