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Can you Play Somerville With a Mouse and Keyboard?

Do I really need a controller?

Somerville is out now, and people are beginning to play this 2D adventure sci-fi game which kind of reminds us of the likes of Playdead’s Inside. The art style is really beautiful, and it promises an emotional, story-rich, atmospheric story. Since it has launched, however, the game has been surrounded by several problems. One is to expect glitches and bugs to appear. Others complain about the game not being able to deliver on its promises. After all, there was significant hype that was created around it. However, one of the main issues and questions made by Somerville’s players or potential buyers is if whether you can play Somerville with a mouse and keyboard. The answer is not a straightforward. Let’s address the controversy.

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Can you Play Somerville With a Mouse and Keyboard?

Some would just take for granted that if a game is sold in Steam, it pretty much has to work with a mouse and keyboard. Otherwise, the game would just be hurt by its own negligence, forcing players to buy some sort of controller in order to play it. And by it being a 2D game, I really don’t think it is necessary. With that being said, the game does work with a keyboard and mouse. The problem is how to make it work.

That is where several users have reported that it is not compatible. However, the real reason that they are unable to play with their peripherals may be due to a glitch. In order to make the game work with a mouse and keyboard, you’re going to have to restart the game. Do it until you’re able to change the controller input to either keyboard or keyboard and mouse. This is a solution posted by a couple of users in the Steam forums. Be sure to check out it out periodically for further updates on the matter.

Related: How to Unlock All Endings in Somerville

With that being said, I would suggest giving the game a try, although you could maybe wait a little while until it gets its issues sorted out.


Somerville is available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and Windows. If you like our Somerville content, be sure to check out How to Unlock All Achievements in Somerville and Somerville Review: Family is Hope.

Author
Image of Alejandro Josan
Alejandro Josan
A musician with a heart of a gamer, Alejandro's life has always been accompanied by adventures on Nintendo platformers, countless hours of fantasy RPGs and several third-party FPSs. Currently, he is studying Game Design and Development, preparing for a long career in the video game industry.