Are you encountering a frustrating “Device Not Located” error when trying to launch Final Fantasy XIV Launcher Error? Don’t worry, Warrior of Light, you’re not alone.
This error can be caused by a few different things, but fear not! We’ll delve into some troubleshooting steps to get you back to adventuring in Eorzea.
Incompatible Controller Type: Not all controllers are created equal!
Final Fantasy XIV officially supports popular controllers like those for Playstation and Xbox. However, if you’re venturing off the beaten path with your gamepad, you might encounter some bumps. Here’s a rundown of controller types that might not be officially supported:
- Generic Gamepads: These are basic controllers that might lack the specific buttons or functionality FFXIV requires.
- Arcade Sticks: These are beloved by fighting game enthusiasts, but their focus on directional controls might not translate well to FFXIV’s menu navigation and character movement. Most arcade sticks require additional software to emulate a standard gamepad for compatibility.
- Dance Mats: While certainly energetic, dance mats are a niche controller and likely won’t work without specific drivers or third-party tools.
- Guitar Hero Controllers: These are designed for rhythm games and their button layout wouldn’t be ideal for FFXIV. Additionally, they often rely on proprietary software that might conflict with FFXIV.
- Mobile Phone Controllers (via Bluetooth): While some may connect, their functionality can be unpredictable. Button mapping might be wonky, and features like vibration feedback might not work.
- Wheel Controllers: Geared for racing games, these would need separate software for calibration to function properly in FFXIV, if at all.
Third-party controllers: Even controllers designed for consoles like Playstation or Xbox might fall under this category if they’re not officially licensed by Sony or Microsoft. These controllers may work with varying degrees of success, but they might have compatibility issues or require additional configuration software to function flawlessly.
Outdated Launcher Version (Especially for Steam Deck Users)
While the “Device Not Located” error can occur on any platform, Steam Deck users might face an additional hurdle: an outdated launcher version. The Steam Deck is a fantastic portable way to experience FFXIV, but its unique operating system can sometimes have compatibility issues with older launcher versions.
Here’s the deal: If you’re launching FFXIV through Steam on your Deck and encountering this error, there’s a good chance the launcher itself needs an update. Updating the launcher should resolve the issue and get your controller recognized.
In some cases, even with an updated launcher, the Steam Deck might require a specific compatibility tool. These tools can help bridge the gap between the Deck’s operating system and the FFXIV launcher, ensuring smooth communication between your controller and the game.
We’ll delve into specific solutions for updating the launcher and exploring compatibility tools in the troubleshooting section later.
C. Missing or Corrupt Game Files: The Silent Culprit
Sometimes, the issue might lie deeper than just the controller or launcher. Corrupted or missing game files can also lead to the launcher failing to recognize connected devices. This can happen due to a number of reasons:
- Unexpected shutdowns: If your computer or Steam Deck abruptly powers down while the launcher or game is running, it can corrupt essential files.
- Incomplete updates: Interrupted updates can leave game files in a messy state, causing the launcher to malfunction.
- Disk errors: Physical damage to your hard drive or storage device on the Steam Deck can lead to corrupted files as well.
Troubleshooting Steps: Reclaim Your Controller!
Now that we’ve identified some potential causes, let’s get down to business and fix that “Device Not Located” error! Here’s a breakdown of troubleshooting steps:
A. Verify Controller Compatibility:
Before diving deeper, let’s confirm your controller is officially supported by FFXIV. Here’s how:
- Check the official FFXIV website: Square Enix maintains a list of officially supported controllers on their website. Search for “FFXIV supported controllers” to find the latest information.
- Seek community wisdom: If your controller isn’t on the official list, don’t despair! Online forums and communities dedicated to FFXIV are a treasure trove of user experiences. Search for threads about your specific controller and FFXIV compatibility. You might find workarounds or configuration tips from other players.
B. Update the Launcher (Steam Deck in Focus):
An outdated launcher can be the culprit, especially on the Steam Deck. Here’s how to tackle it, depending on your FFXIV version:
Non-Steam Version:
- Embrace the power of Linux tools: The Steam Deck runs on a Linux operating system. We’ll need a text editor (like Gedit) and a tool called ProtonUp-QT to manage compatibility layers (like Proton) that help Windows software run on Linux. You can install these through the Discover software store on your Deck.
- Upgrade your Proton layer: With ProtonUp-QT, explore installing a newer version of Proton, like GloriousEggroll’s Proton (GE-Proton). These custom versions often offer better compatibility with games.
- Unlock hidden secrets: Enable viewing hidden files in your Deck’s file manager (Dolphin).
- Navigate the file labyrinth: Locate the FFXIV installation folder. It’s typically hidden within a folder structure like this: /home/deck/.local/share/steam/steamapps/compatdata/<folder_id>/pfx/drive_c/users/steamuser/Documents/My Games/FINAL FANTASY XIV – A Realm Reborn/ (Replace <folder_id> with a number specific to your FFXIV installation).
- Edit with caution: Open the FFXIV_BOOT.cfg file with your text editor (Gedit). There will be specific instructions online related to modifying this file for controller recognition. Be mindful when editing configuration files, and follow trusted guides to avoid causing further issues.
Steam Version:
- The Steam way: Updating the launcher for the Steam version is much simpler. Launch Steam on your Deck and navigate to your FFXIV library entry. Right-click and select “Properties.”
- Compatibility magic: Under the “Compatibility” tab, you can experiment with different Proton versions. Consider using a community-recommended Proton layer known for good FFXIV compatibility.
- Launch options (optional): Some online guides might suggest adding specific launch options in the Steam properties for your FFXIV version. Research these options carefully before implementing them, as they can vary depending on your situation.
Conclusion
The “Device Not Located” error can be frustrating, but with the steps outlined above, you should be well-equipped to diagnose and fix the issue. Remember, the culprit could be an unsupported controller, an outdated launcher (especially on the Steam Deck), or corrupted game files.
By following the troubleshooting steps, you can:
- Verify your controller’s compatibility with FFXIV.
- Update the launcher on the Steam Deck (including potentially modifying the FFXIV_BOOT.cfg file for the non-Steam version).
- Update the launcher through Steam for the Steam version and explore using a compatible Proton layer.
- Verify the integrity of your game files to fix any corruption.
If you’ve tried these steps and are still facing the error, don’t hesitate to seek help from the FFXIV community forums or the official Square Enix support channels. With a little persistence, you’ll be back to adventuring in Eorzea with your controller of choice in no time!
FAQs
What does the error message “XIV Launcher Device Not Located” mean?
This error typically occurs when the Final Fantasy XIV launcher is unable to detect the game installation on your system. It indicates that the launcher cannot find the necessary files to initiate the game.
What causes the “XIV Launcher Device Not Located” error?
There could be several reasons behind this error, including:
- Corrupted game files.
- Incorrect installation path.
- Antivirus or firewall blocking the launcher’s access.
- Missing registry entries.
- Outdated or incompatible device drivers.
How can I fix the “XIV Launcher Device Not Located” error?
Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your computer and the launcher to see if it resolves the issue.
- Ensure that your antivirus or firewall is not blocking the launcher’s access to necessary files.
- Verify the game files through the launcher’s options. This will check for any corrupted or missing files and attempt to repair them.
- If the game is installed on an external drive, ensure it is properly connected and recognized by your system.
- Update your device drivers, especially graphics card drivers, as outdated drivers can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
- If you’ve recently made changes to your system, such as installing new software or updates, try reverting those changes to see if they’re causing the problem.
- Reinstall the game and launcher if none of the above steps resolve the issue. Make sure to follow the installation instructions carefully.
Is there a specific directory where Final Fantasy XIV should be installed to avoid this error?
While Final Fantasy XIV can be installed in any directory on your system, it’s recommended to install it in the default directory provided by the installer. However, if you’ve installed it elsewhere, ensure that the launcher is pointing to the correct installation path.
Can I contact support for further assistance with the “XIV Launcher Device Not Located” error?
Yes, if you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting steps and are still encountering the error, you can reach out to Square Enix support for further assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the issue and steps you’ve already taken to resolve it. They may be able to offer additional guidance or solutions.