Elden Ring has captivated players across the world with its open-world exploration, challenging combat, and deep lore. Whether you're a seasoned FromSoftware player or new to the series, mastering the controls on PC is essential to fully immerse yourself in the Lands Between. In this guide, we’ll go over the essential keyboard and mouse controls to help you get the most out of your adventure.

Basic Keyboard and Mouse Controls

When you first load into Elden Ring on PC, the keyboard and mouse controls might feel a bit overwhelming due to the complexity of the combat system. However, once you get accustomed to them, the controls will feel intuitive and fluid. Here’s a breakdown of the core actions:

  • Movement: Use W, A, S, D to move your character around. This is the standard WASD layout, and it’s how you’ll navigate the world, dodge, and engage enemies.

  • Camera Control: Move the mouse to control the camera. You’ll want to constantly adjust your viewpoint to explore, fight, and keep an eye on enemies.

  • Attack: Left-click to perform light attacks and right-click to perform heavy attacks. Combining these with directional movement will unlock a variety of combo attacks.

  • Blocking/Parrying: Press Right Mouse Button to block incoming attacks with your shield or weapon. You can also parry by pressing the Right Mouse Button just before an attack lands, leaving enemies vulnerable to a riposte.

  • Rolling/Dodging: The Spacebar allows you to dodge and roll, an essential action for evading incoming damage. Mastering the timing of dodges will save your life, especially during boss fights.

  • Interact: Press E to interact with objects in the environment, such as opening doors, talking to NPCs, or looting items.

  • Use Item: F is the default button to use items from your quick-access bar. You can assign items here via the inventory menu, such as health flasks or magic.

Combat and Magic Controls

Elden Ring's combat system can be fast-paced and tactical, requiring precision and quick reflexes. The game allows you to wield both magic and melee weapons, and understanding how to switch between them is vital.

  • Switching Weapons: Press 1 and 2 to swap between your equipped weapons or items. You can easily alternate between a sword and a bow, or even a magic staff.

  • Casting Spells: To cast spells, use Q to access your magic, and then press Left Mouse Button to cast your current spell. You can assign multiple spells to your quick bar for rapid switching.

  • Aiming with Ranged Weapons: When using ranged weapons like bows or crossbows, hold the Right Mouse Button to aim, and left-click to fire.

Managing Stamina

Your stamina bar is crucial in combat and exploration. Every action, from attacking to dodging, depletes stamina. Keeping an eye on this bar is essential, as running out of stamina will leave you vulnerable to enemy attacks.

  • Stamina Recovery: While running, dodging, or attacking, your stamina will naturally regenerate. However, it’s important not to exhaust it entirely, as this will leave you unable to act for a few moments.

Inventory and Menu Navigation

Managing your inventory and equipment is a key part of Elden Ring. You’ll need to make quick decisions when it comes to equipping weapons, armor, and items.

  • Open Inventory: Press I to open your inventory. From here, you can manage all your items, upgrade equipment, or consume items like health potions.

  • Quick Inventory Bar: The numbers 1, 2, 3, etc. allow you to assign specific items to your quick-use inventory. You can easily cycle between them by pressing the corresponding number key during gameplay.

  • Map: Press M to open your map, which is essential for tracking your progress and discovering new areas.

Tips for Efficiency

  • Keybinding Customization: If you’re finding some of the default controls uncomfortable, Elden Ring allows you to remap keys. Head to the settings menu to personalize the controls to suit your playstyle.

  • Using Mouse DPI: Adjust your mouse’s DPI settings for better accuracy during combat. A lower DPI gives you more precision when aiming spells or ranged weapons.

Additional Considerations

As you explore the world of Elden Ring, you’ll encounter powerful items that can aid your journey. Whether you’re in need of gear upgrades or powerful consumables, it’s easy to buy Elden Ring items online. Additionally, buying Elden Ring runes can provide you with the resources needed to enhance your character and progress more efficiently through tough areas.

Mastering the keyboard and mouse controls in Elden Ring will dramatically improve your gameplay experience. Whether you’re battling formidable bosses or exploring treacherous lands, these controls are designed to give you full control over your character’s actions. Keep practicing, adjust settings for comfort, and soon you’ll be able to navigate the vast world with ease. Happy adventuring!