Short Answer

Use the input method that makes dodging, camera control, heavy attacks, spells, Spirit use, and gourd drinking consistent. The Steam page lists full controller support and says the developers recommend controller play, but keyboard and mouse can work if your binds keep combat actions within easy reach.

The right choice is the one that survives a hard boss attempt, not the one that feels better in an empty area.

Controller Strengths

Controller is the safer default for most players because movement, camera, dodge, light attack, heavy attack, and gourd use sit naturally under both hands. It is especially strong when:

  • You prefer analog movement for circling bosses.
  • You dodge by rhythm rather than by mouse aiming.
  • You use spells and on-hand items through held-button layers.
  • You play on a couch, handheld setup, or PS5.
  • You do not want to spend time rebinding before learning combat.

The tradeoff is camera precision. If you constantly lose fast enemies off-screen, raise camera comfort through lock-on discipline and camera sensitivity before blaming the combat system.

Keyboard And Mouse Strengths

Keyboard and mouse can be better if you value direct camera control and clean access to number-row spells. It is strongest when:

  • You are comfortable managing action games on keyboard.
  • Mouse camera control helps you track large bosses.
  • You can reach dodge, heavy attack, gourd, Spirit, and spells without hand strain.
  • Your mouse has side buttons for item or stance management.
  • You prefer precise camera correction over analog movement.

The tradeoff is finger load. If dodge, sprint, interact, staff spin, Spirit, and spells are fighting for the same hand, rebind before a boss wall.

Rebinding Priorities

Fix these before anything else:

  1. Dodge must be instant and comfortable.
  2. Gourd must be reachable without looking.
  3. Heavy attack must not strain the same finger used for camera or dodge.
  4. Spells must be reachable without moving off movement keys for too long.
  5. Spirit use must be deliberate enough that you do not fire it accidentally.
  6. Lock-on must be easy to tap during camera resets.

Do not start with photo mode, menu shortcuts, or rare item cycling. Combat survival depends on dodge, heal, camera, heavy attack, and spell access first.

Testing Your Setup

Test controls on normal enemies, then on a boss you already understand.

  • Can you dodge three attacks without moving your hand?
  • Can you drink after a retreat without hunting for the key?
  • Can you charge or release heavy attacks without losing camera control?
  • Can you cast your planned spell under pressure?
  • Can you use Spirit intentionally rather than by panic input?

If the answer is no, change one bind and test again. Do not rebind the whole layout after every death.

Common Mistakes

  • Switching input methods during a boss wall instead of practicing one stable setup.
  • Keeping default keyboard binds that cause hand strain.
  • Blaming damage when missed dodges are an input-comfort issue.
  • Using a controller with poor shoulder or stick response and calling it a timing problem.
  • Rebinding too many actions at once and losing muscle memory.

FAQ

Is controller better?

Controller is the recommended default and usually the easiest fit for movement and combat layers. Use keyboard and mouse if camera control and your rebinding comfort are stronger there.

What should keyboard players rebind first?

Dodge, gourd, Spirit, and spell access. Those actions decide whether the setup survives real pressure.

When should I switch input methods?

Switch between sessions or before learning a new boss. Do not switch mid-wall unless your current setup is physically uncomfortable.

Sources