Voice Commands
Voice Communication & Command Systems
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the communication protocols in Holdfast: Nations At War. Effective communication—whether through proximity chat or standardized tactical commands—is essential for coordination on the battlefield.
I. Proximity Voice Chat (VoIP)
Holdfast utilizes a spatialized proximity voice system. Audio volume scales based on your physical distance from other players; notably, this includes enemy combatants.
Important: The game strictly utilizes Push-to-Talk (PTT). There is no "Open Mic" or "Toggle" functionality available to ensure a clean acoustic environment.
| Action | PC (Default) | Xbox (Default) | PS5 (Default) | Indicator |
| Transmit Voice | Hold Y | Hold Y | Hold Triangle | Microphone icon appears above the health bar. |
| Global Mute | Press K | Settings Menu | Settings Menu | Speaker icon with a strike-through appears on HUD. |
| Mute Individual | Press P | Menu > Scoreboard | Options > Scoreboard | Used to silence specific players via the scoreboard. |
Console Troubleshooting: Party Chat Conflicts
If you are currently in an Xbox Live Party or PlayStation Party, the in-game PTT system may be overridden by the console's OS. To resolve this:
- Priority Settings: Switch the console party setting from "Party Chat" to "Game Chat."
- System Override: On certain firmware versions, holding the PTT button (Y / Triangle) may bypass party chat, but switching to Game Chat is the most reliable method for consistent communication.
II. Tactical Voice Commands (Order Wheel)
The Voice Command system allows players to issue pre-recorded, period-accurate tactical orders. These commands are audible to nearby players and often include a text notification in the chat log. These do not require a microphone.
Command Execution
To issue an order, follow the inputs below based on your platform:
- PC: Hold V to bring up the menu, then use the mouse to select the desired command.
- Xbox: Hold the View Button, navigate the wheel with the Analog Stick, and press A to confirm.
- PS5: Hold the Touchpad, navigate with the Analog Stick, and press Cross (X) to confirm.
Class-Specific Variations
Commands are dynamically updated based on your selected class:
- Officers/Sergeants: Focus on tactical maneuvers (e.g., "Fire!", "Form Line!", "Fix Bayonets!").
- Sailors: Focus on naval operations (e.g., "Raise Sails!", "Man the Cannons!").
- General Infantry: Standardized responses and shouts (e.g., "Cheers," "Retreat!").
III. Musician Interface (PC & Console)
While Musicians use the same movement controls as infantry, their primary "communication" is through morale-boosting instruments.
- Selection: Access your instrument via the weapon scroll/selection wheel.
- Activation: Use the Primary Attack (Left Click / RT / R2) to begin playing.
- Song Selection: While the instrument is equipped, use the Reload key (R / X / Square) to cycle through available tunes.