Dark Souls 3 is best played with a gamepad. If your controller isn't recognized, add the game executable to Steam as a "Non-Steam Game" and configure your controller layout via Steam Input. Final Verdict
The short answer:
Download and install the latest DirectX Runtime and Visual C++ Redistributable packages from the official Microsoft website. Performance Tips for Dark Souls 3 Dark Souls 3 v1.15 2 DLCs -FitGirl Repack-