Last week Microsoft unveiled a new controller for their Xbox One console. Not just any controller, an adaptive product which will help millions of people with a range of disabilities to enjoy games they’d previously dreamed to play.

With a starting price of £73.50, the product will be sold worldwide, with custom solutions including:

- Two large face buttons, accessible by the hands, elbows or feet, Bite switches for those who may be paralyzed from the arms down, Foot Pedals, Touch Sensitive Pads

Any of the following can be attached using the 19 ports on the rear of the pad, the device is also powered wirelessly by an internal battery but can be charged via USB-C cables.

The best example of creativity was during a Microsoft demo event. Learning Specialist Solomon Romney was able to demonstrate the ability to play the Forza Motorsport game with just one hand, only using two buttons to steer, brake and accelerate.

Romney states “I’m trying different configurations, testing how it feels without ever having to quit out and start again”, his approach is said to make the process “much easier to find the ideal setup”. The product is going to be very personalized and will be able to work with many kinds of disabilities.

This isn’t the only recent rollout, last autumn, Mr Harbach of Long Eaton Powered Mobility Integration Service designed a tilt switch which enables those with minimal ability to kick a ball in a game using their head to create movement.

Generally, his designs aid those hopeful gamers who are restricted in their ability to move, however he does focus on people with visual impairments too. For example, in Rockstar’s GTA V, instead use different shapes and colors to distinguish opposing teams and right from wrong etc.

This is a huge step up in the industry, now disabled gamers can enjoy the same environment as those who are already privileged enough to play games unassisted.

Written by Harrison Jones

References - https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2017/09/30/games-for-people-with-disabilities https://www.theguardian.com/games/2018/may/17/microsoft-xbox-disability-friendly-adaptive-controller