XINPUT1_3.dll Missing — DirectX Runtime Error

The error XINPUT1_3.dll is missing indicates the DirectX runtime component for Xbox controller input is not installed, common with older games. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: XINPUT1_3.dll is part of the DirectX End-User Runtime (June 2010). Handles Xbox 360/One controller input for games. Not included in the DirectX version built into Windows 10/11. Common with games from 2008-2015 era that used DirectX 9. Steam games frequently trigger this error on fresh Windows installs. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: DirectX End-User Runtime (June 2010) not installed. Game requires the legacy DirectX 9 runtime components. Windows built-in DirectX 12 does not include older DLLs. Game installer failed to install DirectX prerequisite. Antivirus removed the DLL file. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Download DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from Microsoft. Run the installer — it adds legacy DLLs alongside modern DirectX. Restart your computer after installation. If the game is on Steam, right-click > Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity. Check if the game folder has a redist or _CommonRedist folder with DirectX installer. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Windows Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.