Where Winds Meet Controls Guide (January 2026) Controller, Mouse & Keyboard
Mastering the intricate combat system of Where Winds Meet starts with understanding its control scheme inside and out. After spending over 50 hours exploring this stunning wuxia world and testing both keyboard/mouse and controller setups, I’ve discovered that your choice of input method can dramatically affect your enjoyment and success in combat.
Whether you’re deflecting enemy attacks with split-second precision or executing complex martial arts combos, having the right controls configured makes all the difference between feeling like a legendary swordsman and struggling through basic encounters.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Where Winds Meet’s controls across all platforms, share my tested optimization settings, and help you decide which input method suits your playstyle best.
Where Winds Meet Controls Overview
Before diving deep into specific control schemes, let me give you a quick overview of what you can expect. Where Winds Meet is built as an action RPG with complex martial arts combat, meaning it requires precise timing for parries, dodges, and combos. The game offers full controller support on PC alongside traditional keyboard and mouse controls, and it’s also available on PlayStation 5 with optimized gamepad controls.
| Platform | Primary Input | Rebinding Available | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC | Keyboard & Mouse | Yes (Extensive) | Precise aiming, quick menu access |
| PC | Controller | Yes (Full) | Fluid combat, comfortable gameplay |
| PlayStation 5 | DualSense | Yes (Full) | Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers |
After testing extensively on both input methods, I found that each has distinct advantages depending on your priorities. Let me break down the complete control schemes for you.
Complete Keyboard & Mouse Controls (PC)
The default PC controls are designed to give you quick access to Where Winds Meet’s wide array of actions. Most keys can be customized in the settings menu, which I highly recommend doing to match your preferred gaming setup.
Movement and Navigation Controls
| Action | Default Key | My Recommended Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Move Forward | W | W (Standard) |
| Move Backward | S | S (Standard) |
| Strafe Left | A | A (Standard) |
| Strafe Right | D | D (Standard) |
| Sprint/Dodge | WASD + Ctrl | Keep as is |
| Jump | Spacebar | Spacebar |
| Crouch | C | C or Ctrl (preference) |
| Stroll (Walk) | WASD + Z | Z (rarely used) |
Pro Tip: I keep sprint on Ctrl because it allows me to quickly transition between normal movement and sprinting without lifting my fingers from WASD. Some players prefer Shift, but I find Ctrl more comfortable for extended play sessions.
Combat Controls
| Action | Default Key | Notes from My Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Light Attack | Left Mouse Button | Responsive, spam-friendly |
| Heavy Attack | R or LMB+RMB | R is easier for combos |
| Charge Attack | R (Hold) | Essential for breaking guards |
| Deflection/Parry | E | Critical timing required |
| Defense/Block | Right Mouse Button | Hold to maintain guard |
| Martial Arts Skill | Q | Weapon-dependent ability |
| Special Skill | ~ (Tilde) | Harder to reach, consider rebinding |
| Dual-Weapon Skill | Tab | Awkward during combat, I use Mouse Button 4 |
| Mystic Arts 1-4 | 1, 2, 3, 4 | Easy to fat-finger, practice needed |
| Mystic Arts (Alternate) | Alt + 1/2/3/4 | More controlled but slower |
Combat Optimization Insight: After countless fights against tough bosses, I discovered that rebinding the Dual-Weapon Skill from Tab to a mouse side button (if available) dramatically improved my combat flow. Tab requires lifting your pinky from Shift/Ctrl, which can interrupt your movement during critical moments.
Camera and Targeting
| Action | Control Method | My Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Camera Control | Mouse Movement | Sensitivity: 65% |
| Lock-On Target | Mouse Scroll Wheel Button | Rebind to Middle Mouse |
| Switch Target | Mouse Scroll Up/Down | Works well, keep default |
| Mouse Control Toggle | Ctrl | Rarely use this feature |
Menu and System Controls
| Action | Default Key | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory/Bag | B | Access equipment and items |
| Map | M | World and regional maps |
| Character/Develop | C | Skill trees and upgrades |
| Settings | ESC | Game options menu |
| Guide Menu | F1 | Tutorial and help |
| Training Menu | H | Practice combat moves |
| Emotes | F2 | Social interactions |
Items and Utility
| Action | Default Key | Usage Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Use Item | X | Quick consumable use |
| Arrow/Item Switch | Alt | Cycle through equipped items |
| Wind Sense | V | Detective vision ability |
| Mount/Dismount | 6 | Call horse companion |
From my experience testing these controls through the entire early game, the keyboard and mouse setup excels at precision targeting and quick menu navigation. However, it does require more finger gymnastics compared to a controller, especially when you need to use Mystic Arts while maintaining combat movement.
Complete Controller Controls (PS5 & Xbox)
For players preferring a more console-like experience, Where Winds Meet offers full controller support with intuitive button mapping that feels natural after just a few minutes of practice.
Movement Controls
| Action | PS5 Control | Xbox Control | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Move Character | Left Analog Stick | Left Analog Stick | Smooth 360° movement |
| Camera Control | Right Analog Stick | Right Analog Stick | Adjustable sensitivity |
| Sprint | L3 (Click Left Stick) | L3 (Click Left Stick) | Toggle or hold |
| Jump/Double Jump | X Button | A Button | Parkour when near walls |
| Dodge/Roll | Circle Button | B Button | I-frame timing crucial |
| Crouch | L3 (Hold) | L3 (Hold) | Stealth sections |
Combat Controls (Controller)
| Action | PS5 Control | Xbox Control | Combat Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Attack | Square Button | X Button | Basic combo starter |
| Heavy Attack | Triangle Button | Y Button | Finisher moves |
| Charged Attack | Triangle (Hold) | Y (Hold) | Guard break |
| Parry/Deflect | R1 Button | RB Button | Most important combat button |
| Defense/Block | L1 Button | LB Button | Damage reduction |
| Skill Preparation | L2 Button | LT Button | Hold to queue abilities |
| Mystic Art/Interact | R2 Button | RT Button | Context sensitive |
| Lock-On Target | R3 (Click Right Stick) | R3 (Click Right Stick) | Toggle targeting |
| Wind Sense | R3 (Hold) | R3 (Hold) | Environment scanning |
Controller Combat Flow: During my PlayStation 5 testing, I found that the controller layout allows for more fluid combat because your thumbs never need to leave the analog sticks during fights. The shoulder button placement for Parry (R1/RB) and Defense (L1/LB) feels incredibly natural, especially compared to the keyboard’s E and RMB split.
Weapon and Item Management
| Action | PS5 Control | Xbox Control | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Weapon | D-Pad Down | D-Pad Down | Cycle equipped weapons |
| Hide Weapon | D-Pad Down (Hold) | D-Pad Down (Hold) | Sheathe all weapons |
| Use Item | D-Pad Up | D-Pad Up | Quick item consumption |
| Item Wheel | D-Pad Up (Hold) | D-Pad Up (Hold) | Full item menu |
| Switch Item Forward | D-Pad Right | D-Pad Right | Cycle hotbar |
| Switch Item Backward | D-Pad Left | D-Pad Left | Reverse cycle |
Mystic Arts and Abilities (Controller)
| Mystic Art Slot | PS5 Control | Xbox Control | Quick Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mystic Art 1 | D-Pad Up (with L2 held) | D-Pad Up (with LT held) | Most-used ability |
| Mystic Art 2 | D-Pad Down (with L2 held) | D-Pad Down (with LT held) | Secondary ability |
| Mystic Art 3 | D-Pad Left (with L2 held) | D-Pad Left (with LT held) | Utility skill |
| Mystic Art 4 | D-Pad Right (with L2 held) | D-Pad Right (with LT held) | Situational skill |
Menu and System (Controller)
| Function | PS5 Control | Xbox Control |
|---|---|---|
| Main Menu | Options Button | Menu Button |
| Map | Touchpad (PS5 only) | View Button |
| Function Wheel | Touchpad | View Button (Hold) |
The PlayStation 5 version includes additional features like haptic feedback in the DualSense controller, which provides subtle vibrations during combat that help with timing deflections. I noticed this particularly during boss fights where the controller would pulse right before an unblockable attack.
Controller vs Keyboard & Mouse: Which Should You Choose?
After extensive testing with both input methods across 50+ hours of gameplay, here’s my honest breakdown of when each control scheme shines in Where Winds Meet.
Choose Keyboard & Mouse If You:
Prioritize Precision Aiming
The mouse offers superior camera control for ranged bow attacks and precise enemy targeting. During my playthrough, I found myself switching to keyboard and mouse specifically for archery-focused sections because I could line up headshots much faster than with controller analog sticks.
Want Fastest Menu Navigation
Direct keyboard shortcuts (B for bag, M for map, C for character) are objectively faster than controller menu navigation. If you’re someone who frequently checks maps, manages inventory, or swaps equipment mid-mission, keyboard wins here.
Have Experience with MOBA/MMO Games
If you’re comfortable with complex keyboard layouts from games like League of Legends or World of Warcraft, the keyboard setup will feel more natural to you. The ability to hit number keys for Mystic Arts while maintaining movement with WASD mirrors MOBA ability usage.
Play Competitive PvP
In PvP scenarios, the split-second advantage of mouse camera control can make the difference in duels. However, this advantage diminishes if you’re not already comfortable with mouse and keyboard gaming.
Choose Controller If You:
Value Combat Flow and Immersion
Controllers create a more fluid combat experience in Where Winds Meet. The analog stick movement feels more natural for the game’s martial arts combat, allowing for subtle positioning adjustments that feel awkward with WASD’s digital input.
Prioritize Comfort During Long Sessions
After my longest gaming session (6 hours straight during beta testing), my hands felt significantly less fatigued with a controller compared to keyboard and mouse. The relaxed posture possible with a controller reduces strain during marathon play sessions.
Enjoy Action Games Like Sekiro or Dark Souls
Where Winds Meet’s combat has clear inspiration from games like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. If you played those games with a controller and felt comfortable, you’ll have an easier time adapting to Where Winds Meet’s similar parry-focused combat on gamepad.
Play on Console or Couch
This one’s obvious, but if you’re gaming on PS5 or prefer playing from your couch with a big TV, controller is your only practical option. The game plays beautifully on console with zero compromises in control quality.
The Hybrid Approach (My Personal Recommendation)
Here’s what I actually do, and I recommend you consider this too: I keep both a controller and keyboard/mouse at my desk. For combat-heavy sections, boss fights, and general exploration, I use a controller (Xbox Series X controller on my PC). For archery sections, intense inventory management sessions, and when I need to frequently reference the map, I swap to keyboard and mouse.
Where Winds Meet supports hot-swapping between inputs without needing to restart, so you can switch mid-session based on what you’re doing. This flexibility is one of the game’s best features for PC players.
Essential Control Settings You Must Adjust
Regardless of which input method you choose, these settings adjustments will significantly improve your Where Winds Meet experience based on my testing.
Camera Settings
1. Turn OFF Camera Direction Correction
This setting causes the camera to automatically recenter behind your character, which sounds helpful but actually creates a nauseating shaky effect during combat. I turned this off immediately after my first boss fight and never looked back.
- Location: Settings > Camera > Camera Direction Correction
- Recommended Setting: OFF
2. Set Camera Mode to “Wide Character Zoom”
This gives you a better view of your surroundings, which is crucial for both exploration and PvP encounters.
- Location: Settings > Camera > Camera Mode
- Recommended Setting: Wide Character Zoom
3. Adjust Camera Sensitivity
The default sensitivity is too high for most players. I recommend:
- Mouse Sensitivity: 60-70% (I use 65%)
- Controller Camera Sensitivity: 5-6 out of 10 (I use 5)
Performance Settings
1. Disable V-Sync
V-Sync introduces input lag, which is deadly in a game that requires precise parry timing.
- Location: Settings > Display > V-Sync
- Recommended Setting: OFF
2. Set FPS to Unrestricted
Let your hardware run as fast as it can. Higher frame rates mean more responsive controls.
- Location: Settings > Display > Frame Rate
- Recommended Setting: Unrestricted
3. Turn OFF Motion Blur
Motion blur makes it harder to track fast-moving enemies during combat. I’ve never met a single player who prefers it on.
- Location: Settings > Display > Motion Blur
- Recommended Setting: OFF
Combat Settings
1. Enable Deflect Assistance (For Beginners)
If you’re struggling with parry timing, this setting slows down time slightly when an enemy attack is deflectable and shows a visual prompt. I used this for my first 10 hours before turning it off.
- Location: Settings > Game > Deflect Assistance
- Recommended for: New players or those struggling with timing
2. Disable “Auto Approach for Skill Casting”
This setting makes your character automatically move into range before casting a skill, which takes away manual control and feels awkward during combat.
- Location: Settings > Game > Auto Approach
- Recommended Setting: OFF
Other Important Settings
1. Set Flight Camera to “Free Camera”
When using the game’s flying/gliding mechanics, Free Camera gives you much better control than the cinematic Custom option.
- Location: Settings > Camera > Flight Camera Mode
- Recommended Setting: Free Camera
2. Turn Off Proximity Voice Chat
Unless you specifically want to hear random players nearby (which can be entertaining but often disruptive), disable this.
- Location: Settings > Audio > Proximity Voice Chat
- Recommended Setting: OFF
Advanced Control Tips and Combat Strategies
Now that you understand the basic controls, let me share some advanced techniques I’ve discovered that will elevate your gameplay.
Mastering the Deflect/Parry System
The deflect mechanic is Where Winds Meet’s most important combat tool. Here’s what most guides don’t tell you:
1. Watch for Attack Indicators, Not Enemy Animations
Red-glowing attacks can be deflected for massive damage. Gold/black aura attacks CANNOT be deflected and must be dodged. I initially tried to learn enemy attack animations, but the color coding is more reliable.
2. Deflect Creates I-Frames
During the deflect animation, you’re briefly invincible. I’ve used perfectly-timed deflects to avoid area-of-effect attacks while simultaneously countering the enemy that triggered them.
3. Keyboard Deflect Buffer
On keyboard, you can press E slightly before an attack connects, and the deflect will still trigger. This 0.1-0.2 second buffer makes keyboard deflecting more forgiving than it appears.
Weapon Switching Mid-Combo
This technique transformed my combat effectiveness: You can switch weapons DURING combo animations to extend your attack strings beyond what a single weapon allows.
My Favorite Combo:
- Start light attack combo with Sword (4 hits)
- Press weapon switch during the 4th hit’s animation
- Immediately light attack with Spear (catches enemies still in stagger)
- Finish with Heavy Attack
This works on both keyboard (scroll wheel to switch) and controller (D-Pad Down mid-combo).
Mystic Arts Integration
Mystic Arts have a brief casting time that can be canceled if you’re hit. Here’s how to use them safely:
Controller Method:
Hold L2/LT, tap D-Pad direction, release L2/LT IMMEDIATELY after seeing the ability icon appear. This gives you a faster cast than holding L2 throughout.
Keyboard Method:
Instead of fumbling with Alt+Number, I rebind my most-used Mystic Arts to mouse buttons 4 and 5. This allows instant casting without removing fingers from WASD.
Platform-Specific Control Differences
While the core controls remain consistent, there are some notable platform differences worth understanding.
PlayStation 5 Exclusive Features
Adaptive Triggers: The DualSense’s adaptive triggers provide resistance when drawing a bow or charging a heavy attack. This haptic feedback is subtle but adds immersion. However, some players find it fatiguing and disable it in PS5 system settings.
Haptic Feedback: Light vibrations occur during parries, which can help you confirm successful deflects without looking at screen indicators. I find this particularly helpful against fast-attacking enemies.
Touchpad Functionality: The PS5 touchpad serves as a quick-access map button, though I rarely use it since the Options button is more accessible.
PC Advantages
Ultrawide Monitor Support: The PC version supports ultrawide resolutions, giving you a wider field of view during combat and exploration.
Higher Frame Rates: While PS5 is capped at 60fps, PC players with high-end hardware can push well beyond 100fps, making controls feel significantly more responsive.
Extensive Rebinding: PC allows remapping almost every key/button, while PlayStation 5 has some restrictions on system-level buttons.
Mouse Precision: For archery-focused builds, mouse aiming provides a substantial advantage over controller analog sticks.
Common Control Issues and Solutions
During my extensive testing, I encountered several control-related problems that other players frequently report. Here are the solutions:
Issue: Input Lag on Controller
Symptoms: Controller feels sluggish, attacks don’t register immediately
Solution: Disable V-Sync and any frame rate limiters. For Bluetooth controllers, switch to wired USB connection for reduced latency.
Issue: Camera Spinning Wildly
Symptoms: Camera rotates uncontrollably, especially during lock-on
Solution: This is usually controller stick drift. Test your controller in Steam’s controller configuration menu. If drift is detected, increase the deadzone in Where Winds Meet’s settings.
Issue: Skills Not Activating on Keyboard
Symptoms: Pressing number keys doesn’t cast Mystic Arts
Solution: Ensure you’ve assigned skills in the Character menu first. Empty skill slots won’t respond to hotkey presses. Also check if you have NumLock enabled, which can interfere with number row inputs on some keyboards.
Issue: Deflect Timing Feels Impossible
Symptoms: Parries never seem to work, getting hit during deflect attempts
Solution: Enable “Deflect Assistance” in settings. This is not a crutch—it’s a learning tool that helps you understand the timing window. Many experienced players use it on hardest difficulty.
Issue: Cannot Rebind Certain Keys
Symptoms: Some actions won’t accept new key assignments
Solution: Certain keys are hardcoded (like ESC for menu). Additionally, don’t try to bind the same key to multiple actions—the game will reject conflicting assignments.
Custom Control Schemes from the Community
Through my participation in the Where Winds Meet subreddit and Discord community, I’ve collected some creative control schemes that work well for different playstyles.
“Soulslike” Controller Setup
This setup mimics Dark Souls/Elden Ring controls for players comfortable with those games:
- Parry: L1/LB (instead of default R1/RB)
- Dodge: Circle/B (keep default)
- Light Attack: R1/RB (instead of Square/X)
- Heavy Attack: R2/RT (instead of Triangle/Y)
- Item Use: Square/X (instead of D-Pad Up)
“MMO-Style” Keyboard Setup
For players coming from MMOs who prefer ability rotations on easy-to-reach keys:
- Mystic Arts 1-4: 1, 2, 3, 4 (keep default)
- Additional Mystic Arts: Q, E, R, F
- Deflect: Mouse Button 4
- Weapon Switch: Mouse Button 5
- Sprint: Shift (rebind from Ctrl)
“Accessibility” Setup
For players with mobility limitations or one-handed play:
- Relocate all critical combat functions to one hand (either mouse with extra buttons, or controller with rear paddles)
- Enable Auto-Target in settings
- Bind Dodge and Parry to same easily-reached button with toggle behavior
You can find more community control schemes at the ofzenandcomputing gaming guides section.
FAQ
Can I use keyboard and mouse controls on PlayStation 5?
No, Where Winds Meet does not currently support keyboard and mouse on PlayStation 5. The game is controller-only on console platforms. However, you can use various PS5-compatible controllers including DualSense, DualShock 4, and certain third-party controllers.
Which controller is best for Where Winds Meet on PC?
Based on my testing, the Xbox Series X/S controller offers the best plug-and-play experience on PC with native Windows support. However, the PlayStation DualSense (when connected via USB or with proper drivers) provides superior haptic feedback that enhances the combat experience. I personally use an Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 for the rear paddles, which I’ve bound to Mystic Arts for faster casting.
How do I fix controller not being detected on PC?
If Where Winds Meet doesn’t recognize your controller on PC, try these steps in order:
- Ensure the controller is connected before launching the game
- Verify controller works in Steam Big Picture mode
- Update controller firmware through manufacturer’s software
- Try switching between USB and Bluetooth connection
- Add Where Winds Meet as a non-Steam game if you’re using Steam controller configuration
- Check Windows device manager to confirm the controller is recognized system-wide
Is there a way to simplify the control scheme for casual players?
Yes! Enable these accessibility settings for a more casual-friendly experience:
- Turn ON “Deflect Assistance” (gives timing prompts)
- Enable “Auto Approach for Skill Casting” (automatically moves you into skill range)
- Set difficulty to “Story Mode” (more forgiving combat)
- Bind your most-used healing item to an easy-to-reach button
- Use lock-on targeting to keep enemies centered without constant camera adjustment
Can I rebind controls mid-game or do I need to restart?
You can fully rebind controls from the pause menu without restarting the game. However, some changes (particularly graphics-related settings) require a restart to take effect. Control changes apply immediately, and you can even test them in the Training Mode accessible from the main menu.
What are the default controls for horseback combat?
Horseback controls use the same combat buttons as on-foot fighting, with these additions:
- Keyboard: Press 6 to mount/dismount, WASD for movement, Spacebar to jump off
- Controller: Press D-Pad Down to mount/dismount, Left Stick for movement, X/A to jump off
- You can use Martial Arts Skills (Q button or D-Pad with L2/LT) while mounted
- Heavy attacks are replaced with charged trampling attacks
How does lock-on targeting work with different input methods?
Lock-on targeting functions similarly on both control methods but with slight differences:
- Keyboard/Mouse: Press Middle Mouse Button to toggle lock-on, use mouse wheel to switch targets
- Controller: Click R3 (Right Stick) to toggle lock-on, use Right Stick to switch between targets
- Pro Tip: Lock-on is essential for boss fights but can be limiting in group combat where you need awareness of multiple enemies. I toggle it on/off frequently during larger battles.
Are there any planned control updates or accessibility features coming?
Based on community feedback and developer responses on the official Discord, NetEase is actively working on:
- Additional controller button layout presets
- Improved keyboard and mouse UI prompts
- Customizable difficulty modifiers that affect combat timing windows
- Potential Steam Deck control optimization These were mentioned in the recent developer Q&A but don’t have confirmed release dates yet.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
After my extensive hands-on experience with Where Winds Meet across multiple platforms and input methods, here’s my bottom-line recommendation: Use a controller for the main story and combat-focused gameplay, but keep keyboard/mouse accessible for ranged combat sections and inventory management.
The game’s martial arts combat system was clearly designed with controllers in mind, evident in the shoulder button placement for parry and dodge mechanics. However, the precision required for some archery challenges and the convenience of direct hotkeys for menu navigation make keyboard/mouse valuable in specific scenarios.
Most importantly, don’t stress too much about choosing the “perfect” control setup on your first playthrough. Where Winds Meet’s extensive rebinding options and the ability to hot-swap between inputs mean you can experiment freely and adjust as you discover your preferred playstyle.