I'm running Windows 8 and my 360 controller won't work when I plug it in. It turns on and the 4 lights will flash, and windows shows the controller being detected just fine. But the issue is that it never actually "syncs" to the PC (even thought I can view it under devices. All the drivers are up to date and it is an official MS controller. I have the "360 controller" option in the Skyrim setting enabled also. Can anyone offer any help here?

Take a look here: http://support.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-on-other-devices/windows/xbox-controller-for-windows-help

and

here: http://forums.xbox.com/xbox_forums/xbox_support/f/7/t/1553514.aspx

Drivers: http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/en-us/p/xbox-360-controller-for-windows#support

Wireless Controller with Play and Charge Adapter or Wired Controller?

***

Wireless Controller requires that you also purchase a wireless receiver. http://www.amazon.com/Xbox-Wireless-Gaming-Receiver-Windows-Pc/dp/B000HZFCT2. This allows your PC to sync the wireless part of the controller. Yes, your PC will detect the device without syncing by plugging in the device via a 'Play and Charge' adapter, but the device will not function properly without being synced.

Most people including myself just use a wired variant of the XBOX 360 controller.