If your controls feel "stuck" or certain actions won't trigger despite being assigned in the menu, the file may have become write-protected or corrupted by a mod.
It maps button IDs for gamepads and joysticks.
Delete the keys.dat file. The game will generate a fresh, default version the next time you launch it. 2. Broken Keybindings gta vice city keys.dat
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City remains a masterclass in open-world atmosphere, but for the modding community and power users, the real magic often happens inside the game files. One specific file that frequently surfaces in troubleshooting forums and modding hubs is keys.dat.
If you have spent hours perfecting a complex control scheme—especially for flying the Dodo or RC planes—you should back up this file. If your controls feel "stuck" or certain actions
Most modern players use a mod called . This mod essentially bypasses the limitations of the standard keys.dat to allow for: Full PlayStation or Xbox controller support. Proper analog trigger sensing for driving. Vibration/Haptic feedback support. Manual Editing
Ensure the file is not marked "Read-Only" in the Windows file properties. Modding and Customization The game will generate a fresh, default version
Because keys.dat is a binary file, you cannot simply open it in Notepad to change a "W" to an "Up Arrow." You would typically need a hex editor or, more commonly, use the in-game "Redefine Controls" menu to overwrite the data within the file. Managing Your File
Many players on modern Windows systems find that their mouse stops working in the menu or in-game. While high polling rates are often the culprit, a corrupted keys.dat can also freeze input.