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Sony has released a groundbreaking new PlayStation controller that is specifically designed to have accessibility features for disabled gamers. This exciting development comes as a huge relief for gamers like Paul Lane, who was rendered unable to use his fingers following a vehicle accident 23 years ago and now plays video games with his toes.
For people with disabilities, playing video games has always been a challenge. The standard controls on consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo can be difficult to use, if not impossible, for those with mobility impairments. Losing the ability to play a game can amplify the social isolation experienced by a population that already faces high rates of isolation.
To address this issue, Sony collaborated with Lane and other accessibility consultants to develop the Access control for the PlayStation. This innovation in the accessible controls market has seen participation from other gaming industry players such as Microsoft, startups, and even 3D printer hobbyists.
Thirty-year-old Cesar Flores, who has been using a wheelchair since being injured in a vehicle accident eight years ago, also provided input on the new control system. Flores struggled through middle school while playing soccer and faced challenges with physical activities due to his disability. Video gaming has become an essential outlet for him, allowing him to feel connected and “one of the guys” despite his limitations.
The Access controller, which has been in development since 2018, is a versatile and customizable device that can be adjusted to accommodate a wide variety of users. It is a round, flexible device that can be set up in different ways depending on the user’s preferences. It can sit on a tabletop or a rolling cart’s bandeja, and users can swap buttons and joysticks, write customized controls, and even combine two separate controls into a single interface.
Lane, who is now 52 years old, has abandoned conventional control methods in favor of the Access controller. He steers his virtual race vehicle in games like “Gran Turismo” using his elbows while the controller sits comfortably within reach on a tabletop. This innovative control system has allowed Lane to continue enjoying his favorite games and stay connected to the gaming community.
Mark Barlet, the founder and CEO of the nonprofit organization AbleGamers, emphasizes the importance of considering the knowledge and skills players require to bridge the gap between a game and a control scheme not originally designed for individuals with disabilities. Barlet’s organization has been advocating for disabled gamers for over two decades, working with companies like Sony and Microsoft to develop accessible controls. Social media has played a crucial role in allowing players to reach a wider audience and communicate with game developers in ways that were previously impossible.
Microsoft, upon the release of the Xbox Adaptive controller in 2018, expressed gratitude for the positive response it received and encouraged other industry participants to adopt a similar approach to increase accessibility for players.
The Access controller will be available for purchase worldwide on December 6, priced at $90 USD. Alvin Daniel, one of PlayStation’s senior technical program managers, explains that the console was designed with three principles in mind to make it suitable for the greatest number of players. Firstly, the controller is easily mountable and doesn’t need to be locked in place. It can be set up on a tripod or a rolling bandeja, providing flexibility and accessibility. Secondly, pressing the buttons on the controller is simpler than on a standard control panel, allowing users to experiment with different button caps to find the optimal configuration for their needs. Lastly, the controller features adjustable levers that can be set up according to the user’s requirements.
The Access controller offers a lifeline to an expanding demographic of gamers, including elderly individuals with arthritis and other mobility impairments. As the average age of gamers continues to rise, this inclusive controller ensures that individuals can continue to enjoy gaming as a form of entertainment and escape, regardless of their physical abilities.
For Lane, who sat out of competition for seven years following his accident, this new controller has brought back the joy and sense of connection he felt when playing video games. The social effects of gaming have had a profound impact on his life, helping improve his disposition despite the challenges he faces due to his disability.
Reuniting with gaming after a long separation feels like finding a long-lost friend for Lane and countless other disabled gamers who can now experience the joy of playing once again. As the gaming industry continues to prioritize accessibility, individuals with disabilities will have more opportunities to engage with this popular form of entertainment and combat the social isolation they often face. The release of the Access controller marks an exciting step forward in creating a more inclusive gaming landscape.
