Even if you have the x86 (32-bit) version of Windows, or are installing x360ce 32-bit for an old game, you still need BOTH x86 and x64 runtimes. Why? Because x360ce injects DLLs into games that might be 64-bit.
Here’s the helpful, straight-to-the-point content regarding and the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable requirement (the "exclusive" part you mentioned refers to x360ce needing specific VC++ runtimes to work). x360ce install microsoft visual c exclusive
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The Essential Dependency: Why x360ce Requires Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables Even if you have the x86 (32-bit) version
x360ce is written in C++, a programming language. To function, it relies on a standard set of code libraries known as the Visual C++ Runtime. These libraries are not included in Windows by default. When a developer compiles x360ce using Microsoft Visual Studio, the resulting .exe file contains "calls" to these runtime functions. Without the Redistributable package installed, the operating system cannot interpret those calls, and x360ce will crash instantly. These libraries are not included in Windows by default
x360ce relies on these libraries to translate DirectInput calls into XInput.
By the end of this guide, you will have a fully functional x360ce setup, regardless of whether you own a cheap off-brand USB gamepad, a PlayStation controller, or an ancient Logitech device.