controls
Soulframe Controller Layout
Gamepad button layout for Soulframe on PC during Preludes 15, including Nightfold, parry, and Virtue ability mappings.
PC Gamepad Support
Although Preludes is PC-only, many players use Xbox, PlayStation, or compatible controllers. Preludes 15 updated controller dead zones and gyro-less aim assist for heavy weapons. Soulframe remains timing-sensitive — parry and Smite windows feel tighter on controller than keyboard for some players, easier for others.
Connect before launching the client so the launcher detects the correct profile. Steam Input and third-party mappers work but may delay parry inputs; disable extra layers if you miss Smite prompts.
Default Layout
Face buttons handle attacks and confirms: typically Y/Triangle for light chains, X/Square for heavies, B/Circle for dodge, A/Cross for jump and interact including Smite confirmation when prompted. Bumpers activate Nightfold and block or parry depending on weapon stance.
Virtue abilities map to the D-pad and combined bumper holds in the Preludes 15 layout refresh. Pact ultimates use both bumpers plus a face button to prevent accidental casts during Agari looting.
- Move: Left stick
- Camera: Right stick
- Light attack: Y / Triangle
- Heavy attack: X / Square
- Dodge: B / Circle
- Jump / interact: A / Cross
- Nightfold: LB / L1
- Block / parry: RB / R1
- Ability wheel: D-pad directions
- Sprint: L3 (click left stick)
Tuning for Combat
Increase parry input buffer slightly in settings if you play on wireless controllers with measurable latency. Reduce camera acceleration so ghost enemy feints remain readable. For Tethren and other Courage Pacts, consider claw grip for Nightfold while moving — or remap Nightfold to a paddle if your controller supports it.
Limitations
Text chat, trading UI, and Totem socket management remain faster on mouse. Pre-alpha menus receive controller focus improvements each prelude, but complex Chordstone refining may still favor keyboard for bulk operations.