The world of computer games is constantly growing, generating more complex and immersive games every day. This being the case, the avid gamer has a problem. A more complex game requires a more complex controller. For example, the same controller or keyboard that was used to play old popular games like Pac-Man or Tetris is no longer sufficient for today’s games.
Gaming keyboards have reprogrammable keys so users can create the best functionality for their needs.
The gaming industry’s solution to this problem is the gaming keyboard. These keyboards are revised and customized versions of the factory default keyboards that can be found in businesses or in many homes. Gaming keyboard manufacturers take the layout of a regular keyboard and determine what changes can be made to make controlling video games easier and more convenient.
Some games are designed to be played with a controller instead of a keyboard.
Many gaming keyboards are equipped with reprogrammable keys that perform whatever function you assign to them. This allows the user to create a unique configuration that is specifically tailored to their preferences. Additionally, gaming keyboards often offer an integrated joystick. This device allows the user to easily and seamlessly control multiple axes of movement at the same time if used in conjunction with the mouse.
In today’s world, where comfort is often a deciding factor between buying one item or another, many gaming keyboards also strive to be more ergonomic for their users. Curving the keyboard to fit a more natural position of the user’s arm or providing better wrist support are common ergonomic improvements found in gaming keyboards.
Further improving the ergonomics is the specific placement of certain keys on the frame. Instead of placing important keys in awkward or hard-to-reach places, gaming keyboard manufacturers are looking to maximize ease of use. Instead of forcing your little finger to reach the assigned key for squatting, for example, a gaming keyboard might allow you to reprogram crouching to one of the more comfortable keys.
Another feature of many gaming keyboards is a custom decal overlay. The overlay is placed on some keyboards and customizes the key label and can include some kind of fancy graphic. However, some gamers prefer not to clutter their keyboard with these graphics and can easily remember which buttons have which functions. Whether you want an overlay or not, an overlay is generally not the decision-making factor that influences a gamer to buy one keyboard over another. Ergonomics, key placement, and programming are key considerations when buying a gaming keyboard.
