*OT* Re: KB+mouse in FPS
<< I don't like KB+Mouse mainly because it's a pain to move my kb to the left so I can use the arrow keys. >>
Then don't move the keyboard to the left! Remap the keys on the left side of the KB to do what you want. I have a somewhat crazy mapping for FPS's but I've used it since Descent and it always works for me whether I use the mouse or a joystick in my right hand.
I found the most natural layout for my left hand on the KB is with like this:
Thumb = [space] = Slide modifier
Index = [E] = Backward
Middle = [W] = Forward
Ring = [Q] = Turn Left (usually. more on that later)
Pinky = [Left Shift] = Toggle Run (usually)
[R] is mapped to Turn Right usually, but no finger sits on it by default.
Basically, with this setup, I only worry about Forward, Back, and Slide modifier in the left hand, and all the maneuvering with the right. This is true whether I'm using a joystick or a mouse in the right. This is a very comfortable position for the left hand, and I can play games for hours in comfort. If anything, the right arm/hand starts getting sore first. The only problems I have with this setup is changing weapons to those numbered higher than "5." It's harder to select these weapons since I have to extend to reach for them and I have to look down at the KB to actually see which weapon I'm selecting, since I have no tactile sense for which key I'm hitting. I usually use the thumb to select them, too, since I can quickly select them and return the thumb to the spacebar without having to look a second time to make sure it got on the right key. Beyond that, though, I love this setup. I even use it for maneuvering the map in Myth.
The [Q] and [R] keys are mapped to turn left/right to comply with a converntion of an older layout, and usually remain for convenience. As I'm playing a new game, however, I sometimes find that [Q] is too useful to waste on something I don't use very often, so I'll map it to something more useful. For example, in Unreal, I map it to secondary fire.
Piranha |
