Gaming is an art that requires precise control and mastery of various keys for both professions and recreational activities. This is especially true for those who wish to perform at their best when playing titles that require complex action and strategy. Thus, a keyboard with enough keys to enable one-handed gaming is essential. Unfortunately, there are many variables in play when deciding how many keys a gaming keyboard should have.
First, the game’s genre is a major factor in determining how many keys will be needed. Firstly, games that are focused on movement, such as platformers, fighting games, and first-person shooters, will require a lot of versatile key combinations. This means more keys in each hand, or else compromising the ability to maneuver efficiently.
Moreover, in order to execute certain combos, more keys may be needed. This is especially true in fighting games, as each button will correspond to a specific action, and if a combo requires multiple actions all at once, the player will need access to them simultaneously.
Finally, another factor to consider is the control scheme of the game. In some titles, like sports games, the use of multiple keys to perform certain moves will be necessary as it provides a higher degree of accuracy in execution. This also applies to games that feature a fast-paced action, such as racing games. Here, being able to quickly and reliably move several keys will be crucial, so having more than just a few keys to work with will be advantageous.
Overall, there is no definitive answer as to how many keys are necessary for one-handed gaming. It depends on the genre, the combos that you plan on executing, and the control scheme that the game requires. It is best to tailor one’s keyboard setup according to their own playing style, as well as any peripherals that may supplement the number of keys on the keyboard.
Platformer Games
In platformer games such as Mario, Sonic, and other side-scrolling titles, the player needs to quickly and accurately press and sometimes hold several keys while jumping in order to maneuver safely and complete objectives. This means that the player needs to have several keys readily available on one hand in order to do so. This means a gaming keyboard with several extra buttons in close proximity to their dominant hand is necessary. keys such as “jump,” “run”, “attack”, “kill”, etc. can all be used to navigate through the game. While some authors suggest that 8 keys should be sufficient, some players may opt to have up to 10 keys as it may provide them with even more versatility.
Fighting Games
In fighting games on the other hand, the setup will likely require more than the 8 keys recommended for platformers. This is because most fighting titles include complex combos that require multiple input from both hands in order to pull off. This means that the player has to have access to multiple keys with one hand in order to be able to deliver a powerful combo. Depending on the size of the keyboard and the range of movement required, anywhere from 10-12 keys can be necessary for proficient playing.
Real-Time Strategy Games
As for RTS titles such as Command and Conquer, StarCraft, and Age of Empires, the complexity of the controls varies depending on the game. Generally speaking, the use of a few extra keys with the dominant hand is necessary in order to move the camera and select troops quickly. Depending on the game’s control scheme, this may require more than the 8 keys suggested for platformers and the 10-12 keys suggested for fighting games. The key count should be tailored to the player’s play style and comfort as certain commands may be easier or more difficult to execute with fewer or more keys.
Role-Playing Games & Action RPGs
Role-Playing Games and Action Role-Playing Games require the player to move the character and fight opponents. This means that the keyboard needs to have a decent amount of keys on one side in order to move, attack, and move the camera at the same time. Depending on the design of the controller, anywhere from 8-12 keys may be needed in order to properly navigate and execute various commands. It is important for the keys to be placed close together as it will reduce fatigue when performing long combos.
Card Games & Other Titles
The amount of keys needed for card games and other games that require complex input is largely dependent on the title. Some games may only require 3-4 keys while more advanced ones require as many as 10 or even more. Depending on the game, the player may need access to certain keys quickly, so having them all near the dominant hand is prudent. The player should also make sure that they are comfortable and can access the keys easily as this will help them make better and more accurate moves.
