Microsoft Announces New Xbox Controller For Gamers With Disabilities (VIDEO)
Microsoft recently celebrated the seventh annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day and revealed the testing of their latest console technology, specifically tailored for gamers with disabilities in mind – the Xbox Adaptive Controller. Though this design was leaked early just a few days ago, the company has officially pulled open the curtains to show the gaming community what the new Xbox controller is all about. To become a more inclusive community for players of all abilities, the Xbox Adaptive Controller has been tried and tested by gamers with from the accessibility community.
One of the most interesting features include various plug-ins that allow gamers to attach various different devices for a smoother gameplay experience – from larger joysticks, buttons, and switches via USB and 3.5mm jacks. Each button or attached device can be remapped to personal needs, and a mount can be used on the backside of the controller to make for ease of access. Check out the introduction videos below for a closer look:
The new Xbox controller is designed with accessibility in mind. For more on their journey in creating their latest hardware, make sure to check out the official news blog of Microsoft titled, “Plugged In.” For those with a hearing disability, Microsoft has a video with audio description as well – please click here. The Xbox Adaptive Controller is being prepared for release for later this year, but an exact date has not been specified just yet.
With that being said, we’re ecstatic to see more inclusivity for different bodies and abilities. This is a fantastic move on Microsoft’s part and we can’t see how this changes the way some gamers are able to play. What do you think of the Xbox Adaptive Controller? Is this something you would like to see other platforms and console manufacturers do as well? Let us know what you think in the comments section below or start a conversation on DFTG Facebook page. To stay up to date on gaming news as it happens, follow us on Twitter! Here’s some of our latest:
Hoi Duong2131 Posts
Hoi is an elusive figure at DFTG, whose favorite past-times include chillin' in the Fade, reading manga, watching anime, collecting novelty items, and gaming.