diff --git a/common/events.h b/common/events.h
index ff5d2874f41..4b45d530c8f 100644
--- a/common/events.h
+++ b/common/events.h
@@ -110,7 +110,7 @@ struct JoystickState {
 	 * Some of the button indices match well-known game controller
 	 * buttons. See JoystickButton.
 	 */
-	byte button;
+	int8 button;
 };
 
 /**