How can I connect a Game Controller to my MacBook Pro?

Jeremy Hansen wrote:

Hello all. I'm wondering if anyone has had any success using a game controller with a MacBook. I've tried knock off PS4 controllers, and one genuine one, which Apple does document as compatible. But it's always the same: I can connect it with a cable, or put it into discovery mode. It might work once, but never again. Sometimes if I forget the device, turn Bluetooth off and on again, put it in discoverable mode I can maybe get it to reconnect. The genuine Sony controller won't even do that; I got it to connect once, and never again. It just says "not connected."

Any experience with a game controller, or any suggestions? I appreciate it.

M4 MacBook Pro, MacOS 15.2

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

see if there is anything here—

Connect a wireless game controller to your Apple device-Apple Support