Read the slot list
Output Slots shows controllers presented to games. An active Xbox 360 slot can belong to a physical DualSense; physical and emulated device identities are deliberately separate. Empty Available slots are not disconnected physical controllers waiting to be repaired.
Choose a reservation when needed
Dynamic slots are created when a profile needs them. Select a slot before using Plug or Unplug. A reservation can help a setup that expects a persistent output, but changing slot state while a game is running can disconnect its controller. Save your game and test changes outside active play.
Check numbering in the game
XInput numbers appear only when the backend reports them. Do not infer a player number from the row position alone. If a game chooses the wrong controller, inspect physical-device visibility, other remappers and active outputs before adding more virtual devices. Use the game’s own controller selection where available.
Screenshot values are examples, not recommended settings for every controller. Save a separate profile before experimenting.