Dead Island 2 throws you into a zombie infested Los Angeles where knowing when to dodge, block, heal or switch weapons matters just as much as landing a powerful hit. The controls are straightforward at first, but special attacks, Curveballs and Fury Mode add more options as you progress.
This Dead Island 2 controls guide covers PlayStation, Xbox and PC, including movement, combat, weapon switching and the different controller layouts. The PlayStation bindings follow the Original Flavor layout shown in the game's settings menu.
Dead Island 2 Controls for PS5, PS4, Xbox and PC
The PlayStation controls below are taken from the Original Flavor layout. Xbox buttons use their corresponding controller equivalents. PC keyboard and mouse inputs are included where the standard bindings are established, although custom configurations may differ.
| Action | PlayStation | Xbox | PC Keyboard and Mouse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Move | Left Stick | Left Stick | W, A, S, D |
| Look Around | Right Stick | Right Stick | Mouse |
| Attack / Throw | R2 | RT | Left Mouse Button |
| Aim | L2 | LT | Right Mouse Button |
| Defensive Ability | L1 | LB | Left Alt |
| Use Curveball | R1 | RB | Q |
| Special Attack | L1 + R1 | LB + RB | Check Key Bindings |
| Jump | Cross | A | Space |
| Crouch | Circle | B | C |
| Reload / Interact | Square | X | R / F |
| Next Weapon / Weapon Wheel | Triangle | Y | Mouse Wheel / Check Bindings |
| Sprint | L3 | Left Stick Click | Left Shift |
| Knockback | R3 | Right Stick Click | Check Key Bindings |
| Fury Mode | L3 + R3 | Both Stick Clicks | G |
| Flashlight | D Pad Up | D Pad Up | Check Key Bindings |
| Switch Curveball | D Pad Right | D Pad Right | Check Key Bindings |
| Heal | D Pad Down | D Pad Down | H |
| Emote Wheel | D Pad Left | D Pad Left | Check Key Bindings |
| Player Menu | Touchpad | View Button | Tab |
| Game Menu | Options | Menu Button | Esc |
Some abilities are unlocked during the story, so an input may not perform its full function at the beginning. PC controls can also be customised independently from the controller layout.
How to Attack, Aim and Throw Weapons
Press R2 on PlayStation or RT on Xbox to attack with your equipped weapon. Hold L2 or LT to aim when using an appropriate ranged weapon or throwable.
Different weapons have different attack speeds, reach and stamina demands. Fast weapons can help you interrupt an enemy, while heavier weapons are useful when you have enough space to commit to a stronger hit.
How to Dodge and Block
L1 is assigned to your Defensive Ability. Depending on your equipped defensive skill, this lets you dodge or block incoming attacks.
A well timed dodge or block can create an opening for a counterattack. Do not simply hold the attack button when surrounded. Watch enemy movements and defend before committing to another strike.
How to Use Curveballs
Press R1 to use your selected Curveball. These reusable tools include items that can damage zombies, distract them or help control a group.
Use D Pad Right to switch between your equipped Curveballs. They have cooldowns, so save them for situations where they will make a meaningful difference.
How to Activate Fury Mode
Press L3 and R3 together to activate Fury Mode once the ability has been unlocked and the Fury meter is ready.
Fury temporarily changes your combat capabilities and can help you survive difficult encounters. It is especially useful when several enemies are closing in, but it is worth saving for moments when you can make the most of it.
How to Heal in Dead Island 2
Press D Pad Down to use a medkit when one is available. On PC, the standard healing input is H.
Keep an eye on your health before entering an unfamiliar building or starting a difficult fight. You can also recover health through certain combat effects and environmental resources, depending on your equipment and skills.
How to Switch Weapons
Triangle is assigned to Next Weapon and the Weapon Wheel on PlayStation. The corresponding Xbox button is Y.
Use the weapon wheel to select equipment suited to the situation. A fast melee weapon, a heavy hitter and a ranged option give you more flexibility than carrying several weapons that all behave similarly.
How to Change the Controller Layout
Open the settings menu and navigate to the controller layout options. The supplied screenshot shows three configurable categories: Layout, Stick Layout and L1/L2 and R1/R2 Button Layout.
The displayed preset is Original Flavor, with the Stick Layout and shoulder button layout both set to Default. Changing these options may alter the controls listed above.
Dead Island 2 Controls FAQ
How do you dodge in Dead Island 2?
Equip the Dodge defensive skill and press L1 on PlayStation or LB on Xbox. If you have Block equipped instead, the same button performs a block.
How do you use a Curveball?
Press R1 on PlayStation or RB on Xbox. Switch your selected Curveball using D Pad Right.
How do you activate Fury Mode?
Press L3 and R3 together after unlocking Fury Mode and filling the required meter.
How do you use a medkit?
Press D Pad Down on a controller or H on PC when you have a medkit available.
Can you change the controls in Dead Island 2?
Yes. The game provides controller layout options, while PC players can adjust keyboard and mouse bindings in the settings.
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