Unlocking the ASUS ROG Raikiri II: A Comprehensive Linux Setup Guide

Overview

The ASUS ROG Raikiri II is a premium wireless gaming controller designed for both PC and Xbox, retailing at $160 USD. While it has garnered strong reviews under Windows, Linux users have been waiting for native support. This guide covers everything you need to know to get your Raikiri II working on Linux—from current workarounds to the upcoming mainline kernel support. By the end, you'll be able to enjoy your high-end controller in games, emulators, and desktop applications.

Prerequisites

Before diving into the setup, ensure you have the following:

• A Linux distribution (Ubuntu 22.04+, Fedora 37+, or similar) with a 5.10+ kernel (or ability to upgrade)
• A USB-C cable (for wired mode) or Bluetooth adapter supporting BLE (for wireless)
• Basic familiarity with the terminal (command line)
• Internet connection for downloading packages
• Optional: A Windows machine for initial firmware updates (if needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Understanding the Current State of Linux Support

As of early 2025, the Raikiri II is not yet supported in the mainline Linux kernel (see bugzilla). However, developers have been working on a driver patchset that will add compatibility for its wireless dongle and HID features. This guide covers two paths:

• Path A: Using the community xone driver (for Xbox One/Series controllers) with additional patches
• Path B: Patching and compiling the kernel yourself (advanced)
• Path C: (Future) Using the mainline kernel once the patch is accepted

2. Method A: Using the xone Driver (Recommended)

The xone driver by medusalix supports Xbox wireless controllers. With some modifications, it can work with the Raikiri II. Follow these steps:

1. Install build dependencies:
   sudo apt update && sudo apt install git dkms build-essential curl
   (Replace apt with dnf or pacman as needed)
2. Clone the repository and apply the Raikiri II patch:
   git clone https://github.com/medusalix/xone
cd xone
   Download the latest patch from this issue (look for raikiri.patch). Then apply: git apply raikiri.patch
3. Build and install the driver:
   sudo make install
   This will compile and install via DKMS.
4. Load the module:
   sudo modprobe xone
   Check lsusb to see if the controller is detected (should list as "ASUS ROG Raikiri II").
5. Test in wired mode:
   Connect via USB-C and run sudo dmesg | tail to confirm input events.

3. Method B: Custom Kernel with Mainline Patch

If you prefer an all-in-one solution and are comfortable rebuilding your kernel, apply the forthcoming patch:

1. Download the kernel source:
   apt-get source linux-image-$(uname -r) (or fetch from kernel.org)
2. Apply the HID patch series from the linux-input mailing list:
   Search for "ASUS ROG Raikiri" to find the patches. Save them in order.
3. Configure and build (using your existing config):
   cp /boot/config-$(uname -r) .config
make olddefconfig
make -j$(nproc)
4. Install the kernel:
   sudo make modules_install install
5. Reboot into the new kernel:
   Then test the controller in both wired and wireless modes. The integrated HID driver should handle all buttons, sticks, and the OLED display.

4. Wireless Setup (Bluetooth or Dongle)

The Raikiri II uses a proprietary wireless dongle (2.4 GHz) and also supports Bluetooth. For the dongle, ensure the xone driver is loaded; for Bluetooth, pair normally:

• Enter pairing mode by holding the pair button (located on top) for 3 seconds.
• Use bluetoothctl or your desktop's Bluetooth manager to discover and connect.
• Once paired, test with sudo evtest to see events.

5. Firmware Updates (Cross-Platform)

ASUS ROG Armoury Crate is not available on Linux. To update firmware, temporarily connect the controller to a Windows PC, launch Armoury Crate, and check for updates. This is recommended before long-term Linux usage.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to disable Secure Boot: DKMS modules may not load if Secure Boot is enabled. Either sign the module or disable Secure Boot in BIOS.
• Using wrong patch version: Always check the GitHub issues for the latest Raikiri II patches—older ones may break functionality.
• Not installing firmware for the dongle: The dongle may require additional firmware (rtl8761b_fw). Install via firmware-realtek or similar.
• Ignoring kernel updates: After a kernel update, you must rebuild the xone module with sudo dkms autoinstall.
• Using Bluetooth with bad latency: For gaming, prefer the wired 2.4 GHz dongle; Bluetooth may have noticeable input lag.

Summary

The ASUS ROG Raikiri II, a $160 high-end gaming controller, is on the verge of full Linux support. This guide provided three methods to get it working today—via the community xone driver, a custom patched kernel, or waiting for mainline integration. Remember to update firmware on Windows first, disable Secure Boot, and test with evtest. With these steps, you can enjoy premium gaming on your Linux system without compromising on controller quality.