Elden Ring is a cross-platform videogame that is playable on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. This game often requires a controller to play. However, for PC users, is using a keyboard and mouse when playing Elden Ring preferable to using a controller? Let us discover this article.

Is Elden Ring playable on a keyboard and mouse? 

The answer is YES! However, there is a steep learning curve when playing Elden Ring using a keyboard and a mouse, but after a couple of times, you'll get used to it. 

Elden Ring button settings for the controller

To those who prefer a controller over a keyboard and mouse when playing Elden Ring, you'll find the image below helpful. Please note that this is not limited to Xbox controllers. You can use any controller as long as it is linked to your PC. I use the Gulikit Pro controller, and it works fine playing Elden Ring.

Controls and key mapping for Elden Ring (controller)
Controls and key mapping for Elden Ring (controller)

How do I change the keyboard control mappings? 

During the game, open the main menu, go to the keyboard/mouse settings tab, and press the Key Bindings button to view the keyboard controls. You will now see the keyboard and mouse controls. 

Keyboard and mouse control mapping

If you wish to play using a keyboard and mouse, here is the list of key bindings for Elden Ring.

Command Key
Open/Close the system menu Esc
Elden Ring Commands

Movement Keys

Command Key Details
Walk Alt Press while moving to walk
Move Forward W  
Move Backward S  
Move Left A  
Move Right D  
Backstep, Dodge Roll, Dash Space Press while standing still to backstep, press while moving for a dodge roll, or hold to dash
Jump F  
Crouch/Stand Up X Switch between standing and crouching
Elden Ring Movement Keys

Camera Controls

Command Key Details
Reset Camera, Lock On, or Remove Target Q Reset the camera's position. Turn lock-on fixation on or off during lock-on
Elden Ring Camera Controls

Switching Armament

Command Key Details
Switch Sorcery/Incantation Up Arrow  
Switch Item - Down Arrow Down Arrow Switch between items in quick slots
Switch Right Hand Armament Right Arrow or Shift + Scroll Up the mouse wheel  
Switch Left Hand Armament Left Arrow or Shift + Scroll Down the mouse wheel  
Elden Ring Switching Armament

Attacks

Command Key Details
Light Attack (RH & Two-Handed Armament) Left mouse button Normal attack with your right-hand armament
Strong Attack (RH & 2H Armament) Shift + Left mouse button Strong attack with your right-hand armament. Hold to charge the attack
Guard (LH Armament) or dual attack (if the same weapon is equipped) Right mouse button Guard with left-hand armament. This is applicable if a shield is equipped.
Skill Left Control or Shift + Right Perform a skill
Use Item R  
Event Action (Examine, open, etc) E Perform various actions
Elden Ring Attacks

Note: You can always change the key bindings according to your playstyle. 

My experience playing the game using keyboard and mouse

I tried playing for a few minutes using the keyboard and mouse. I find it difficult when I try to switch items and weapons because I have to take my hand off the mouse and press the arrow keys. I also hope the numbers on top can be assigned to each quick slot, so I can easily use items at the press of one button. I easily got defeated because I haven't memorized the mouse buttons, and I feel there's an excess of buttons to be pressed. 😆😅

Defeated by Draconic Tree Sentinel when I played using keyboard and mouse
Defeated by Draconic Tree Sentinel when I played using a keyboard and mouse

It takes a little learning curve but the best way when switching is to get to a safe distance first, so you'll be safe from the enemy's attacks.

Should I use a keyboard instead of a controller when playing Elden Ring? 

It depends! For every gamer, it is a matter of personal preference. For me, I still prefer the controller over the keyboard when playing Elden Ring. Regardless if you use a controller or a keyboard and a mouse, you can beat the game!

Off-topic: This girl on YouTube defeated an Erdtree Avatar optional boss using an electric guitar as the controller! Crazy, isn't it? 😁

Video Source: AI Kingdom

Conclusion: 

Just like other PC games, Elden Ring is a game that is playable using a keyboard and a mouse. However, prepare to encounter a steep learning curve. Once you get comfortable with the controls, it will be just like playing it with controllers. PC players, what are your thoughts on using a keyboard instead of a controller? Share with us in the comments section! 

Did you like this article? Read these interesting articles too!
Can I Hide My Character’s Helmet in Elden Ring?
Elden Ring: Where to Get and How to Use a Lantern?
Elden Ring: What Happens if I Refuse Melina’s Offer?

About the Author

Kwing Herrero

Kwing Herrero is the founder of Bidyo Geyms. He is a web animation developer who loves to play games and play Soulslike games.

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