Set up your movement controls first
S.O.N.A.R. controls became more flexible during the demo's final updates: the October 29 Demo 1.0 announcement confirms that movement keys can be rebound. The October 22 v0.9.52.0 notes also added support for mouse buttons and additional keys, including inputs used by accessibility devices. That matters when a comfortable setup lets you move between stations without fighting the keyboard.
Use your installed version's keybinding options to assign the movement inputs you prefer. Check the available assignments there rather than treating a keyboard layout from an older recording as the current default. The announcements establish rebinding support, but they do not publish a complete default-key list or an exact menu-by-menu setup route.
The October 29 announcement specifically describes the demo. Keep that version context when comparing its settings with the full game, and follow the controls shown by the build you are actually playing.
Separate movement from submarine station duties
Getting around the vessel and operating its equipment are different parts of learning S.O.N.A.R. The developer's official submarine tour overview describes several distinct work areas:
| Area | What the developer describes |
|---|---|
| Bridge and control center | Navigation, speed and steering, with depth and ballast monitoring |
| Sonar suite | Passive acoustics and active pings for tracking contacts and threats |
| Public address system | A communications station for broadcasting orders |
| Other compartments | Torpedo tubes, periscope and galley |
Use those responsibilities to decide what you need to practice next. If your immediate job is steering, focus on the navigation and movement information at the control center. If your job is identifying a contact, the sonar station is the relevant system. Rebinding a movement key does not by itself explain a station's operating procedure.
Check input comfort before a busy session
After changing an assignment, practice moving around and then return to the station you intend to use. This gives you a straightforward way to check whether your personal layout is comfortable before several crew members need different jobs at once.
The v0.9.52.0 demo update also introduced adjustable field of view. Demo 1.0 separately mentions individual graphics settings and improved controller vibration. These are useful settings to review alongside input preferences, although the notes do not provide a universal recommended FOV, graphics preset, or controller layout.
FAQ
Can I rebind movement keys in S.O.N.A.R.?
The October 29 Demo 1.0 notes confirm movement-key rebinding. Check your installed build's options for its available assignments.
Does the demo accept mouse-button bindings?
Yes. The October 22 v0.9.52.0 notes added mouse buttons and additional keys, including those used by accessibility devices.
Is there a verified complete default-control chart here?
No. The supplied official notes confirm customization features and station roles, but do not enumerate every default key. Use your current in-game assignments for exact inputs.
Are steering and sonar handled at the same station?
The developer describes the bridge/control center and sonar suite as separate areas with different duties.