What mouse controls are available in Dwarf Fortress

dwarf-fortressmouse

I've added [MOUSE:YES] to my init.txt to enable mouse control, but I haven't been able to find any info on exactly what mouse controls are available. So far, the only one I've found is changing the font size via the scroll wheel.

What other mouse forms of mouse control does this enable? I had expected to be able to use the mouse for selection of tiles in the game map (essentially, as a replacement for the yellow X cursor) and perhaps to be able to scroll the map and select commands as well, but none of this seems to work. (Or I don't understand how to do it.)

Is there additional configuration I need to enable more complete mouse control?

Best Answer

There is, in general, very little mouse control in DF. I consider myself a highly efficient DF player, and rarely use the mouse at all. Most designations, such as digging, channeling, stairs, etc., can be drawn free-hand with the mouse, or in rectangles using the keyboard.

Certain screens are mouse-interactive too: The designations list, as well as cursor (IE, you can select Mine or Channel with the mouse.) You can use the mouse to select items on the military screen. You can use the mouse to define burrows in the same manner you draw designations.

If you're just looking to increase your DF proficiency, be sure to check out macros and Quickfort, and to remap any keys which are awkwardly placed for on your keyboard (especially crucial for playing on a laptop's not-full-sized keyboard.) Also, I wouldn't consider playing without Dwarf Therapist as well.