Trees Hate You controls are built around minimal keyboard inputs: use WASD or the arrow keys to walk, Tab to pause or toggle the in-game menu, and R to instantly restart after a death. Despite claims on some web portals, the game does not feature an active jump button or a dedicated sprint key during standard forest exploration. Surviving this rage-comedy platformer by developer Tykenn comes down to baiting sentient flora and reading stage traps rather than executing complex input combos.
Complete PC Keyboard Controls
The official Steam listing and demo builds confirm full keyboard support alongside gamepad options. The primary default bindings for PC include:
| Action | Primary Keybinding | Alternate Input |
|---|---|---|
| Move Up / Forward | W | Up Arrow |
| Move Down / Backward | S | Down Arrow |
| Move Left | A | Left Arrow |
| Move Right | D | Right Arrow |
| Pause / Menu | Tab | Esc (in select builds) |
| Instant Retry / Reset | R | In-game prompt |
| Contextual Chop Action | X or F | In-game prompt (when available) |
| Character Customization / UI | Mouse | Left Mouse Click |
Contextual actions appear on-screen depending on the section. For example, during gameplay streamers observed on-screen button prompts where X or F was designated to chop once an axe is acquired.
The Tab Key and the "Check for Trees" Trap
One of the most discussed mechanics in the community is the game's menu input. Players visiting the Steam discussion boards frequently ask why pressing Esc does not pause the game normally. In Trees Hate You, the pause and settings functions are bound to the Tab key.
However, the game uses this standard key against the player. When hikers encounter signs reading "If you get stuck, press tab and check for trees," pressing Tab displays a menu button labeled "Check for Trees." Clicking this option is not an informational scan or map hint. It is a scripted gag that immediately causes the silhouette of a tree to smack your character, instantly killing you and wiping your progress back to the previous checkpoint.
Common Control Misconceptions
Because several third-party web portals aggregate generic platformer templates, multiple rumors exist regarding mechanics that are not present in the game:
- No Active Jump Mechanic: Gameplay playthroughs and dedicated guides clarify that you cannot freely jump over hazards. While certain browser aggregators list the Spacebar for jumping, actual runs rely entirely on precise positioning, baiting weapon cooldowns, and stepping around falling trunks.
- No Dedicated Sprint Button: Characters move at a fixed walking pace. There is no stamina meter or Shift-to-sprint mechanic to outrun fast-approaching projectile branches or falling logs. Escaping traps requires baiting the trigger animation, stepping back, and advancing during the recovery window.
- No Dodging or Invincibility Frames: Steam forum discussions note there is no roll or dodge mechanic. Safe traversal depends entirely on memorizing the attack arcs of armed trees and avoiding trigger zones marked by darkened leaves or suspicious dirt patches.
Controller and Accessibility Support
According to official Steam store data for Trees Hate You, the game supports full controller integration:
- Gamepad Compatibility: The title features native support for Xbox controllers, DualShock, and DualSense controllers, as well as generic gamepads. On controllers, walking maps to the left analog stick or directional pad.
- Keyboard-Only Option: For players on desktop setups without gamepads or mice, the game can be navigated entirely using keyboard navigation.
- Input Accessibility: The developer includes settings for Camera Comfort, custom volume sliders, and gameplay designed without mandatory timed button mashing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main movement controls in Trees Hate You?
You move your character using the WASD keys or the directional Arrow Keys on your keyboard, or the left analog stick on a supported controller.
Can you jump in Trees Hate You?
No. Standard forest navigation does not include a jump button. Player tests and community walkthroughs confirm that avoiding tree attacks requires baiting and walking around hitboxes rather than leaping over them.
How do you pause the game in Trees Hate You?
Press the Tab key to open the in-game menu and pause your run. Players accustomed to pressing the Escape key should note that Tab handles menu management in this game.
What does the "Check for Trees" button do?
The "Check for Trees" button inside the Tab menu is an intentional troll trap. Selecting it triggers a tree to strike and kill your character, sending you back to your last checkpoint.
How do you restart after dying in Trees Hate You?
Tap the R key to immediately reset at your latest checkpoint flag without enduring long reload screens.
