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.
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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. 😆😅
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? 😁
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?
