Created by tech company Microsoft for those with disabilities who are unable to play video games with a standard controller, the Xbox Adaptive Controller is designed to be used alongside compatible assistive aids.
Microsoft says that the Xbox Adaptive Controller has “delighted charities and gamers with disabilities” as it allows independence and the simple joy of playing video games.
“This has been a milestone collaboration for us,” said Dr. Mick Donegan, the founder of chief executive of SpecialEffect, a charity that worked with Microsoft to develop the Xbox Adaptive Controller. “Our experience in helping people with complex physical disabilities to access videogames has enabled us to provide not only very relevant advice about features and design, but also direct feedback from a user-centred perspective.”
“Microsoft has a product here that has the potential to help many people globally to enjoy the magic of video games,” added Dr. Donegan.
Connected to an Xbox One or Windows 10 PC via Bluetooth, the Xbox Adaptive Controller with two, large, programmable touch-sensitive buttons alongside a D-pad can operate as a standalone controller.
Fitted with 19 3.5mm input jacks and two USB ports, gamers with disabilities can connect their own personalized third-party devices for the most optimal and comfortables playing experience.
“No two people are the same; everyone has their own wheelchair controller and their own TV controller adapted for their own use,” noted Hector Minto, an assistive technologist and technical evangelist for accessibility at Microsoft. “As with all assistive technology, people were making their own devices at first, but they were able to come to Microsoft and ask us to help. We were delighted to. Everyone should have a right to play games and experience a leisure activity that is enjoyed around the world.”
“With the Xbox Adaptive Controller, gamers can plug in the things they already have to customise the experience for themselves. Our message is: create your own controller,” said Minto.
Diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Vivek Gohill is a gamer who suffers from muscle degeneration and weakness. Gohill uses the Xbox Adaptive Controller alongside several switches and buttons to play games such as Forza Horizon 3.
“I’ve lost a lot of ability, and definitely couldn’t play as much as when I was younger,” said Gohill. “When I had to stop playing the games I wanted to, it was very frustrating and upsetting, because that was one of my favourite pastimes. By using the switches I already have for my computer or phone, the Xbox Adaptive Controller lets me have the freedom to play the games that I want.”
Gohill is also a member of Muscular Dystrophy UK’s Trailblazers that “campaigns for change, provide guidance, and are experts in what life is like for young disabled people”.
“The Xbox Adaptive Controller will give people with disabilities the belief that they can get back into gaming, and that companies are taking accessibility seriously,” said Lauren West, manager of the Trailblazers.
“The problem with general controllers is they are designed for one particular person,” explained West. “People with Muscular Dystrophy will have very fluctuating conditions and what will work for one person won’t work for someone else – someone’s head might be strong but their hands are weak, for example – so having something that can adapt to that is perfect.”
“A lot of our Trailblazers have switch controls at home for computers and tablets, and it’s great they can be used in this equipment. It’s easy to assume companies care but it’s nice to know they are working hard to bring accessibility to the forefront. I hope it will encourage other companies to follow suit and realise they need to do more,” added West.
To learn more about the Xbox Adaptive Controller, click the link below.
https://www.xbox.com/en-CA/xbox-one/accessories/controllers/xbox-adaptive-controller
