First, as mentioned in another thread, I bought an off-brand Xbox controller and USB cable at Family Dollar for $12, and using this guide-
MetkuMods - Because you love your hardware!
I replaced the Xbox plug end with a USB tip. Using this thread for help-
xbcd xbox controller windows 7
I was able to install the XBCD
drivers. Unfortunately, not all of my games will recognize it. Jets N' Guns and Ys: Oath In Felghana won't register the thing. Shadow Man and BSNES do, so it's not a matter of "its not working".
I do have a 2nd controller plugged in. Is there any way to make Windows play nice when 2 controllers are plugged in and allow both to register with games?