Template:All Game Nav Cave Story uses very simple controls that are easy to figure out. Also, included in most cave story game files is the manual, presented in HTML form and written by Studio Pixel himself. However, if you did not get the manual with your downloaded game, here are the control instructions. There are three basic sets of controls for the game.
Action
These controls are used while exploring the game's areas. To note, W will only work once you have gotten the Map System item. Additionally, 
also is the button you use to enter doors and initiate conversations.
| Move left and right |  and 
|
|---|---|
| Look up | 
|
| Search (Or look down while jumping) |
|
| Jump | Z |
| Fire weapon | X |
| Change weapon | A (back) and S (forward) |
| Item screen | Q |
| Display map | W |
Conversation
These controls are only used when you are talking to characters or making yes/no choices during the game.
| Selecting Yes/No | and
|
|---|---|
| Continue conversation | X or Z |
Item Screen
These controls are used once you open up the item screen via Q while you are using the action controls.
| Selecting item |
|
|---|---|
| Examine/Use | Z |
| Leave screen | X |