1. A computer-implemented method for selecting characters with a directional pad configured to generate directional inputs, the method comprising: providing ranked character mappings, wherein the ranked character mappings include: a second highest ranked character mapping including common consonants, a third highest ranked character mapping including semi-common consonants, a fourth highest ranked character mapping including less common consonants, and a lowest ranked character mapping including least common consonants; providing ranked directional inputs for a base state; providing a base state for activating the ranked character mappings, wherein an input associated with a ranked character mapping activates the ranked character mapping; providing a mapping state when the ranked character mapping is activated; providing ranked characters of the ranked character mappings when the mapping state is activated; providing ranked directional inputs for the mapping state, wherein an easiest directional input is associated with the highest ranked character; and reactivating the base state upon selection of a character in the mapping state.