The embodiments are directed toward an architecture and communication protocol for controlling haptic output devices. According to the embodiments, a composite drive signal is generated that includes a first drive signal to be rendered by a first haptic output device, a second drive signal to be rendered by a second haptic output device, and a packet identifier. A controller includes the first haptic output device that is associated with a first user input element and the second haptic output device associated with a second user input element. The composite drive signal is transmitted to controller, and the execution order of the first and second drive signals is determined based on the packet identifier.