Decaying Winter has a small but decisive control scheme. Unlike many shooters, winning fights here depends less on aim and more on movement, timing, and knowing each keybind. This page lists every input the collected guides document so you can build muscle memory fast.
Open the agent device — T
Press T to open your wristwatch agent device. It shows your rations, weapon statistics, salvage, the storm watch, and your ammo. The storm watch is the second most important read in the game — it tells you when the storm hits and when the next wave spawns, so glance at it while looting.
Parry — R
Press R to parry an incoming melee attack. A well-timed parry stuns the enemy and leaves them open, while also refunding stamina you need for swings. Enemies can perform an "absolver" (eyes glow yellow) that bypasses parry, and a "grapple" (eyes glow red) that is immune to shoves until you parry it.
Shove — Q
Press Q to shove an enemy, stunning them briefly. Shoving has a recovery, so back off after shoving rather than immediately swinging. It is the easier alternative to parry and is ideal for emergencies or when an ambush lands on you.
Mantle and movement
Jump into a ledge and press jump again at the moment of contact to mantle up, recovering a large chunk of stamina. Stamina powers your light attacks (5), heavy attacks (20), shoves (20), and jumps (30); walking or standing still regenerates it, while running too long exhausts you.
Use auxiliary equipment — C
Press C to activate your chosen auxiliary equipment, such as the Emergency Respirator or Ballistic Dagger. You bring one gear per run and it recharges each night. Check your loadout before a wave so the ability is ready when you need it.