Why Control Configuration Matters
OpenBVE gives you detailed, realistic train operations — but only if your controls are set up correctly. The default keyboard layout works for most users, but mapping controls to a joystick, gamepad, or dedicated train controller significantly improves immersion and makes operations like notching the power handle feel more natural. This guide walks through every option available.
Opening the Controls Menu
From the OpenBVE launcher, navigate to the Controls tab. Here you'll see a full list of assignable actions, each showing its current input mapping. You can assign keyboard keys, joystick axes, joystick buttons, or mouse inputs to any action by clicking on it and pressing/moving your desired control.
Default Keyboard Layout
| Action | Default Key |
|---|---|
| Power increase (notch up) | Numpad 2 |
| Power decrease (notch down) | Numpad 1 |
| Brake increase | Numpad 4 |
| Brake decrease | Numpad 3 |
| Emergency brake | Backspace |
| Horn (primary) | H |
| Doors left | F8 |
| Doors right | F9 |
| Camera: cab | F1 |
| Camera: exterior | F2 |
| ATS acknowledge | S |
| Pause | Escape |
Using a Joystick or Gamepad
OpenBVE supports any joystick or gamepad recognised by your operating system. Gamepads with analogue triggers are particularly useful because you can map power and brake to triggers or sticks, giving you proportional control rather than stepped notches. To set this up:
- Plug in your controller before launching OpenBVE.
- Go to the Controls tab in the launcher.
- Click on an action (e.g., "Power increase"), then push the relevant joystick button or move the axis you want to assign.
- For axes, OpenBVE will ask you to define a direction (positive or negative) and a threshold.
- Repeat for all key driving functions.
Dedicated Train Controllers
Hardware train controllers — such as those made by Uniana (DenSha de Go controllers) or similar USB mascon peripherals — can be used with OpenBVE. These devices replicate the feel of a real train master controller with distinct power and brake notch positions. Because they appear as standard joysticks, they work through the same control mapping process as any other joystick. Community guides specific to popular controllers are often available on OpenBVE forums.
Camera Controls
OpenBVE has multiple camera modes, each assignable via the controls menu:
- Cab view: First-person view from the driver's position — the primary gameplay mode.
- Exterior view: Follows your train from outside, useful for watching it on curves.
- Track camera: A fixed lineside view as the train passes.
- Fly-by camera: Cinematic view for screenshots and video recording.
Within cab view, you can look around using the mouse or by assigning look-left and look-right keys — handy for checking platform edges before opening doors.
Saving and Backing Up Your Control Profile
OpenBVE stores your control configuration in a settings file (typically controls.cfg in the program or user data folder). It's worth backing this file up after spending time on your layout — especially before updating OpenBVE, as some updates may reset custom configurations.
Tips for a Better Experience
- Assign the ATS acknowledge function to an easy-to-reach key or button — you'll use it frequently on Japanese routes.
- Map emergency brake to a large, distinct key to avoid accidental activation.
- If using keyboard only, consider remapping power/brake from the numpad to more ergonomic keys if you don't have a numpad.
- Test your layout on a short route before committing to a long timetable run.