Key Points
- Since Crimson Desert is an open world RPG that also includes combat, you need to ace your preferred controller input to use the in-game commands flawlessly.
- You get to pick between the keyboard and controller, depending on your preference.
- While you can change the keybinds to your keyboard, you can’t do so with the controller.
When it comes down to playing Crimson Desert, you will be torn between the controller or the keyboard for the entirety of your gameplay experience. Each device has its pros and cons, and it all boils down to your playstyle.
Keyboard or Controller: Which one should you choose for Crimson Desert?
In my experience, I preferred to use the controller over the keyboard. Crimson Desert offers several complicated keybinds that feel clunky and overbearing with the M&KB. But the close proximity of the controller buttons, I had an easier time navigating the controls of the game. But in the end, it all boils down to personal preference.
Mouse and keyboard will offer a more precise gameplay experience, which is a great pick for navigation and exploration. But for combat, the controller is easier to deal with, especially for boss fights. With that said, there is one hiccup while using the controller; you cannot change the keybinds for controller, but you can do it for the M&KB.
Note: If you really want to change the keybinds for controller, then PC players can download a mod to help with that.
Read More: Crimson Desert – Can You Hide Helmet?
Best KBM Settings for Crimson Desert
If you are using a controller, you would have to play using the default controls, as customization is not available. But if you are on KBM, here is the best layout you can use for Crimson Desert:
Basic
- Move: W, A, S, D
- Run: Left Shift
- Sprint: Left Shift x2
- Jump: F
- Roll/Evade: Space bar
- Aim/Guard: Left Ctrl
- Crouch/Slide: C
- Stow (Sheathe) Weapon: T
- Call Mount: H
- Dismount/Put Down: R
- Cancel: E
- Lock-On: Caps
- Use Gear: B
Interact
- Interaction 1: E
- Interaction 2: R
- Interaction 3: T
- Interaction 4: G
- Previous: Q
- Next: E
- Push: Left click
- Pull: Right click
- Aim: Right click
- Fire: Left click
Basic UI Controls
- Main Menu: Esc
- Open Comrade Quick Slot: F1
- Open Equipment Quick Slot: F2
- Open Skill and Food Quick Slot: F3
Combat
- Light Attack: Left click
- Heavy Attack: Right click
- Punch/Kick: Y
- Aim: Q
- Mark Focused Shot: Right click
- Skil (Focus): X
- Skill (Axiom Force): Tab
- Skill (Force Palm): Middle mouse button
- Skill (Turning Flash): Left click + Right click
- Skill (Shield Bash): Left Ctrl + Right click
- Skill (Stab): Left shift + Right click
- Skill (Evasive Slash): Left Alt + Left click
- Skill (Spinning Slash): Left Shift + Left Click
- Skill (Vault): Space bar + Left click
- Skill (Throw): F + Left click
- Skill (Lariat): F + Right click
- Skill (Binding Flash): Left Ctrl + Left click
- Focus Skill (Binding Flash): Left Ctrl
- Skill (Quick Swap): Z
- Skill (Imbue Element): V
- Skill (Flame): 1
- Skill (Frost): 2
- Skill (Lightning): 3
- Skill (Wind): 4
Read More: Crimson Desert – Abyss Without Balance Quest Walkthrough
FAQs
Can you rebind controls in Crimson Desert?
Yes, but only for keyboard. Controller remapping isn’t supported in-game.
Should PC players switch to controller for this game?
If you have one available, it’s definitely worth trying, especially for long play sessions and combat-heavy sections.
Why does keyboard feel awkward in Crimson Desert?
The game uses many scattered key bindings as default, making it hard to manage inputs smoothly during combat.
