Have you ever wondered how people with some type of motor disability play? All this is possible thanks to accessibility controls for video games.
As AP News mentions, there are people like Paul Lane who uses his mouth, cheek and chin to operate the buttons and guide his virtual vehicle through the “Gran Turismo” track on the PlayStation 5. This has been his game mode for the last 23 years, after a car accident.
For many people like Paul Lane, video games have been a constant challenge, largely because conventional PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo controllers can be complicated or even inaccessible for people with limited or no mobility in their limbs. This can exacerbate social isolation in a community already experiencing rates of isolation. higher than the general population.
In an industry effort to address this issue, developers such as Xbox and Sony have created accessibility controls for video games, working closely with accessibility consultants.
“I grew up passionate about sports before my injury,” Cesar Flores, who has used a wheelchair since a car accident eight years ago and also advised Sony on the development of the controller, told AP News. «I practiced wrestling in high school, played soccer and lifted weights, among other things. Although I can still train in certain ways, there are physical activities that I can no longer do. However, when I play video games, I remember that I am still human. “It makes me feel like I’m still part of the group.”
How do accessibility controls for video games work?
Just like the accessibility control of video games Xbox Being modular, the PlayStation Access device is circular and customizable, and can be placed on a table or wheelchair tray, and configured in multiple ways depending on the user’s needs.
This includes the ability to change buttons and sticks, program special controls, and pair two controllers to use as one. Lane’s “Gran Turismo” car moves around a digital track while he directs it with the back of his hand on the controller. Depending on the needs of each person, the buttons can be relocated optimally and uniquely.
Some, as in the case of Pau Lane, can adapt to oral gestures.
In fact, not only when playing games do these devices seek to be accessible to more people. Openable with just one hand, the controller packaging features convenient ties that can be pulled from the left or right side, plus additional ties on the inside that will help you open the boxes and slide in the controller with ease.
While the Access controller is designed as an “out of the box” solution for many gamers with disabilities, there is a wide spectrum of diverse needs within the community.
In fact, there are examples of accessories developed by third-party teams such as those at Logitech that offer greater adaptability for their users.
There are particular elements designed to make it easier for more people to enjoy their video games with accessibility controls such as:
- Firm gaming mats with a hook and loop system that allows you to freely position buttons and triggers to meet your unique needs.
- Velcro ties to maximize mounting options, such as attaching buttons and triggers to objects such as armrests.
- Custom stickers of each console’s symbols so you can easily mark your buttons and triggers and enjoy a hassle-free gaming experience.
Remember that video games are a hobby for all audiences and accessibility controls are a way to bring it closer to more people to create a larger and more solid community. Subscribe to our Newsletter to be aware of more news relevant to you like this.