Assassin's Creed Shadows is an exciting new entry in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, offering a vast open world and immersive gameplay set in feudal Japan. While the game has been super controversial and doesn’t run all that great on most devices there is a hidden performance issue you might not even be aware of. Controller lag is an issue where Bluetooth controllers introduce FPS drops and major stuttering. Thankfully this guide has a solution for it!

Takeaways:

  1. Fixing controller lag and stuttering in Assassin’s Creed Shadows on PC
  2. Why is Assassin’s Creed Shadows lagging despite high FPS?

How to Fix Controller Lag in Assassin's Creed Shadows on PC

Most of the time, controller lag and sudden FPS drops are caused by low battery levels, outdated firmware, or software conflicts. When a controller continuously disconnects and reconnects, it can cause performance issues within the game. This problem has affected both older and newer titles for years and is typically caused by two primary factors: battery and firmware. In some cases, both may be contributing to the issue simultaneously.

How to Update Your Xbox Wireless Controller Firmware

For those using an Xbox controller, follow these steps to update your firmware quickly:

  • Install the Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store.

  • Open the app and connect your controller via a USB cable.

  • If an update is available, follow the prompts to download and install it.

  • Do not disconnect your controller during the update process, as this may cause issues.

  • Once the update is complete, close the app and go to Settings > Devices, then remove the Xbox controller from the device list.

  • Restart your PC, reconnect the controller, and test it in Assassin's Creed Shadows.

How to Fix Controller Lag in Assassin's Creed Shadows on PC

How to Update PS5 Wireless Controller Firmware

If you’re using a PlayStation controller, the process is slightly different:

  • Download and install the Firmware Updater for DualSense Wireless Controllers on your PC.

  • Open the updater and connect your PS5 controller via a USB cable.

  • Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install any necessary firmware updates.

  • Ensure the controller remains connected throughout the update process.

  • Once complete, disconnect the controller and test its responsiveness in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

How to Fix Controller Lag in Assassin's Creed Shadows on PC

Could Your Controller Be Causing Lag in Assassin’s Creed Shadows? Here’s How to Find Out

Your controller could be the root of your lagging issues or it might not be the cause at all. The simplest way to check is by ensuring:

  • Your controller has sufficient battery charge.

  • The firmware is fully updated.

If updating your controller doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to troubleshoot additional settings such as in-game configurations or your PC’s graphics drivers.

What’s Causing Random Lag in Assassin’s Creed Shadows on PC & How to Fix It

Most controller lag in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is linked to outdated firmware, low battery levels, or software conflicts. These issues can cause delays, stuttering, or unresponsive inputs, all of which negatively impact gameplay. Many players overlook firmware updates for controllers, but keeping them up to date is crucial, especially for older controllers.