Create a clear entry to play
Use a real button or another focusable control to start the game, then move focus to the game surface only when that action is deliberate. If a canvas needs keyboard input, give its container a sensible focus behavior and a visible indicator. Avoid capturing keys globally before the player enters play; that can prevent normal page navigation and typing.
When a settings panel or pause menu opens, move focus inside and keep navigation there until it closes. On close, return focus to its opener if it still exists. MDN documents HTMLElement.focus and its role in directing keyboard events.
Test focus transitions
Navigate from the page into the game using only Tab and Enter, open a menu, move through its controls, close it and confirm focus returns. Make sure visible focus styling is not hidden by the game’s visual effects. If the game uses keyboard shortcuts, ensure they do not fire while focus is in a text input where a player may type.
Navigate into the game using Tab and Enter, open and close a menu, and confirm focus returns. Check visible focus styling and prevent game shortcuts from firing in text inputs. Clear held key state when focus leaves so movement does not remain active.
Questions about game focus management
Should a game listen for keys on the whole document?
Only if the player has intentionally entered gameplay and the handler avoids editable controls and unrelated page interactions. A focused game surface gives a clearer input boundary.
Where should focus go when a game menu closes?
Return it to the control that opened the menu when that control still exists. This gives keyboard users a predictable continuation point.