Axom Controls Guide: Keyboard, Mouse & Keybinds

Introduction to Axom Controls

Understanding the controls in Axom is essential for efficient base building and survival against the relentless, physics-driven Swarm. As a single-player strategy game that blends tower defense with roguelite exploration, Axom requires precise input for both construction and combat. This guide covers the default keyboard and mouse controls, camera management, and customization options available in the settings menu. Whether you are a new player or looking to optimize your keybinds, this overview will help you command your fortress effectively.

Default Keyboard Keybinds

Axom provides a comprehensive set of keyboard shortcuts to speed up your gameplay. The default keybinds are designed for quick access to building, unit selection, and game management. Here are the essential controls:

• W/A/S/D: Move camera across the procedurally generated terrain.
• Q/E: Rotate the camera view left and right.
• Spacebar: Center camera on your main fortress or selected unit.
• B: Open the build menu to place walls, turrets, and support structures.
• Tab: Cycle through available units and structures.
• Escape: Pause the game or close the current menu.
• 1-5: Quick-select saved groups of defenders or buildings.
• F: Focus on the nearest enemy swarm approaching your base.
• R: Rotate the currently selected building before placement.
• Shift: Queue multiple build orders or movement commands.
• Ctrl + Z: Undo last action (only available during preparation phase).

These hotkeys allow you to maintain a steady flow of actions without relying solely on mouse clicks. For more details on building strategies, check our Beginner Guide.

Mouse Controls and Camera Navigation

The mouse is your primary tool for interaction in Axom. The game supports both standard point-and-click and advanced drag controls:

• Left Click: Select a unit, building, or terrain tile. Confirm placement of structures.
• Right Click: Issue move or attack commands to selected defenders. Cancel current action.
• Scroll Wheel: Zoom in and out for a closer look at your base or a strategic overview.
• Middle Mouse Button (Click + Drag): Pan the camera freely across the map.
• Left Click + Drag: Select multiple units or buildings within a rectangular area.
• Right Click + Drag: Rotate the camera angle for better perspective on elevated terrain.

Smooth camera control is vital when exploring the procedurally generated world and reacting to swarm attacks from different directions. For advanced camera tricks, see our Settings Guide.

Building and Unit Commands

Efficient construction and unit management rely on mastering the control scheme. Below are the specific commands for building and commanding your forces:

Construction Controls

• B + Left Click: Open build menu and place structure.
• Esc or Right Click: Cancel current building placement.
• R: Rotate structure before placing.
• Hold Shift + Click: Queue multiple structures for sequential placement.
• Delete: Remove a selected structure (only during preparation phase or with specific upgrades).

Unit Controls

• Select unit(s): Left click on a single unit or drag a box over multiple.
• Move: Right click on the destination terrain.
• Attack: Right click on an enemy or hold A + Left Click to force attack a location.
• Hold Position: H key to make selected units stay and attack any enemy in range.
• Stop: S key to halt all current actions.
• Patrol: P key then click a route for your units to patrol between two points.

Learning these commands will help you manage multiple fronts during intense swarm waves. Refer to our Mechanics Guide for deeper combat strategies.

Customizing Your Keybinds

Axom offers full keybinding customization through the in-game settings menu. To adjust your controls:

1. Open the main menu and select Settings.
2. Click on the Controls tab.
3. Scroll through the list of actions and click on the one you wish to change.
4. Press the new key or combination you want to assign.
5. Confirm the change and save your profile.

You can also reset all controls to default if needed. For players using different keyboard layouts or preferring a specific setup, rebinding is straightforward. Consider binding camera rotation to Q/E if you prefer mouse-free navigation. For performance tips related to controls, visit our Performance Guide.

Tips for Mastering Axom Controls

To maximize your efficiency in Axom, practice these control techniques:

• Use quick-select groups (1-5) for your most important turrets or defenders. This allows instant response to threats.
• Master camera rotation with Q/E or middle mouse drag. A good view helps identify weak points in your defenses.
• Queue build orders with Shift to save time during the preparation phase.
• Use the F key to snap your camera to the nearest enemy swarm, ensuring you never miss an attack.
• Rebind keys that feel uncomfortable. For example, move the "Hold Position" command to a more accessible key if you use it frequently.

For more beginner-friendly advice, read our Beginner Tips guide. Mastering these controls will significantly improve your survival rate against the physical-driven Swarm in Axom.

Troubleshooting Common Control Issues

If you experience input lag or unresponsive controls, try the following solutions:

• Check your frame rate: Low FPS can cause input delay. Lower graphics settings if needed.
• Verify keybinds: Ensure no conflicts exist between Axom and background applications.
• Update drivers: Outdated mouse or keyboard drivers may cause issues.
• Restart the game: Sometimes a simple restart resolves temporary control glitches.

For further assistance, see our Troubleshooting Guide. Axom's controls are designed to be intuitive, but fine-tuning them to your preference will enhance your overall experience.