I have just bought a ESM-9013 controller, hoping to be able to use it while playing Witcher 3: Wild -hunt. but cannot get said controller bind or pair with the game. has anyone else had this problem. or am I being a complete idiot.

A quick google suggests it supports direct input and xinput. Have you made sure to switch it to xinput mode?

Is there a particular reason you went with a wireless controller from a company that I've never even heard of?

My best guess would be the price.

I mean that is fair. The F310 is a perfectly competent controller, but it's lacking in certain luxuries and durability.

it had very good write ups and for the price seemed like a good buy .

Ey, fair enuff if it works.

Can you connect it to pc using cable?
I'm on Linux and for my previous Bluetooth gamepad I have to run a script to configure my controller so it's recognized as Xbox controller after I pair it. I don't know if there is app that do similar thing on windows.

But in my case when I connect that controller using cable it's automatically detected as Xbox gamepad