Present a Clear Visualization of the Control Scheme
The most effective method for players to retain the control scheme is through in-game prompts that appear during actual gameplay when a specific action is required, such as pressing a designated button. Remembering controls can be challenging, particularly in games with complex control systems. Therefore, it may be beneficial to provide a visual representation of the control scheme, along with the associated functions, in a highly accessible location—such as the main game menu. However, this visual aid should serve solely as a supplementary tool to support the process of teaching players which inputs correspond to which actions.
In Sniper Elite 4, the control layout for the gamepad clearly illustrates which inputs correspond to specific in-game actions.
Credit: Rebellion Developments. Screenshot captured by the author.
If players utilize different control schemes based on the current activity (such as piloting, driving, or walking) or environment (such as land, air, underwater, or space), it is advisable to present separate control layouts tailored to each respective activity or environment.
Example:
In Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Wildlands, players are able to view the following six default control schemes:
For keyboard and mouse:
On foot.
Vehicle.
Photo Mode.
For controller:
On foot.
Vehicle.
Photo Mode.