[2023] For control, a gamepad is used, which is not even connected, instead of a mouse. How to fix it?

I think all you can do is unplug the controlled before going into the game.  

Really? That's a new one on me ... there's no other controller or joystick?

DXDIAG is a program you run from the Windows search box on the task bar. After running it will open a window and start collecting info with a progress bar in the lower-left corner. When it completes click the 'save all information' button and save it to a file then attach that file here.  

I frankly have no idea what it is about this machine or Windows setup that is causing this to you. Clearly the game thinks there's a controller there when there isn't ...

Can you swap your mouse and keyboard for ones from elsewhere , just as a est?

If it still happens, make a new Windows user on this machine and log into it wth that. Does it still happen?  

I am sorry then, I can't think of anything to suggest other than a clean reinstall of Windows.

Good luck!