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Elden ring keybinding concerns for new players

Keybindings Under Fire | Gamers Slam Elden Ring's Controls

By

Carlos Mendez

Jun 5, 2025, 07:54 AM

Edited By

Sofia Wang

2 minutes of duration

A close-up of a game controller showing keybindings for SPRINT, DODGE, and ROLL, highlighting the single button assignment issue in Elden Ring.
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A rising number of players are expressing frustration over the control schemes in Elden Ring, particularly its keybinding system. Recent discussions reveal widespread dissatisfaction with the game's sprint, dodge, and roll mechanics being tied to a single button, prompting players to question FromSoftware's design decisions.

A Closer Look at Gameplay

One player shared their concerns after transitioning from Lords of the Fallen to Elden Ring. They lamented the lack of flexibility in key mappings, especially since Lords offers more customization. "It's absolutely a shity experience with Elden despite it being my first souls-like game," the player stated.

In response, players on forums highlighted that while Elden Ring's dodge mechanics trigger on button release, many find this less intuitive. One commenter noted, "Elden Ring is dodge on release, which can be tricky if you're used to pressing to dodge."

Mixed Reactions from Gamers

Feedback from the community reveals a divided sentiment:

  • Preference for Simplicity: Some users argue that having fewer buttons simplifies gameplay. One player stated, "Less buttons, less thinking, more bonking."

  • Frustration with Input Delay: Many players express frustration over perceived input delays in dodging or parrying, prompting questions about potential changes. A user highlighted a workaround: using a macro to minimize response times for dodging.

  • Comparison to Other Titles: Comparisons to titles like Dark Souls and Monster Hunter reveal a range of experiences, with some finding Elden's system more efficient, while others miss the flexibility offered in competing games.

Key Takeaways

  • โ–ณ Growing backlash against Elden Ringโ€™s control scheme from frustrated players.

  • โ–ฝ Users favoring flexibility see Lords of the Fallen as a better example of customization.

  • โ€ป "Elden Ring doesnโ€™t have input delay; itโ€™s just different," shares one player, highlighting the divide in perception.

Overall, the debate continues as players share tips, tricks, and personal experiences, leaving many to wonder if FromSoftware will respond to these ongoing concerns.

Shifting Paradigms in Gameplay Controls

As the conversation around Elden Ring's keybindings continues, there's a strong chance that FromSoftware will address these concerns in future updates. The mix of community feedback and comparisons to other titles suggests that players are looking for more customizable controls, something that the developers may be keen to implement. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that we'll see adjustments in the keymapping options or at least a series of tips offered by the developers to improve player experience. Given the gaming industryโ€™s trend toward player-first design, these changes might not just appease frustrated players but also draw in new audiences looking for a more tailored gaming experience.

When Complexity Meets Creativity

The situation can be likened to the evolution of web design in the early 2000s, when functionality often clashed with aesthetic aspirations. Designers faced backlash for websites that were visually appealing yet cumbersome to navigate. This ultimately led to a shift in focus toward user-friendly interfaces that allow for customization without sacrificing appeal. Just as web developers found balance, the gaming community may soon witness a similar evolution in Elden Ring, where functionality and control flexibility are harmonized to enhance the player experience.