PlayStation has continued to push the boundaries of game accessibility, an idea based on making games available to everyone—especially for people living with disabilities. Their latest innovation is the Access controller which looks nothing like the regular game controllers that the brand is known for.
The Access controller will launch globally on December 6, 2023. However, the books will open for pre-orders from July 21, 2023, at direct.playstation.com and select retailers. The Access controller is the most customizable controller yet and has room for more accessories for further customization. Little wonder it is called a customizable controller kit for PS5 consoles.
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The insane level of customization makes it easier for gamers with disabilities to find the customization that is most comfortable for them so that they can enjoy longer gaming sessions. So, what can the PlayStation Access controller do? The feature trailer posted on July 13 on PlayStation’s YouTube channel gives us a clue.
The shape of the PlayStation Access controller mimics the standard arcade
At a glance, the PlayStation Access controller shares a resemblance with a standard arcade controller. However, instead of the rectangular shape of a standard arcade controller, the Access controller is rounded with a joystick stick arm sticking out from the side of the position of button number 1.
The circular disc has 8 customizable slots where you can fit your buttons. With the help of swappable buttons, users can create different layouts. The joystick is not left out of the customization. PlayStation Access controller will come with three different joystick caps; the standard cap, dome-shaped cap, and balloon cap.
The distance of the joystick to the disc can also be adjusted. When adjusted outward, there is a button by the side of the joystick that allows you to lock your adjustment in position.
Button remapping allows users of the PlayStation Access controller to build custom profiles. Players even have the option of assigning two different inputs to a single button. This will come in handy in adventure games like God of War or fighting games like Mortal Kombat 1 where players are often required to press two action buttons together. That has been a nightmare for players with disabilities.
Users of PlayStation Access controllers can set the buttons to toggle on and off to prevent accidental bumps. The buttons light up with a cool blue light when toggled on. Players can also adjust the sensitivity of their joysticks including deadzone.
Up to 3 different custom profiles can be saved on the PlayStation Access controller so that players don’t have to adjust their settings all the time. Instead, they can easily switch between stored profiles and game on.
The PlayStation Access controller is the foundation for future accessibility customization
The disk is designed to sit comfortably on any flat surface. It can also be attached to an amps-compatible mount. It comes with four expansion ports labeled E1 to E4 where the controller accessories can plug into. These accessories will be sold separately. The ports are separated by a USBC port which will certainly be used for charging the controller.
Another impressive feature of the PlayStation Access controller is that it can be paired with other PlayStation controllers. So, gamers that have friends living with disabilities can now compete in a game like Street Fighter on a more equitable ground.
Video game accessibility is usually grouped into three categories including sensory impairment, motor impairment, and cognitive impairment. The PlayStation Access controller is another step towards bringing games closer to players in any of the three groups.
It is commendable that PlayStation is constantly pushing the boundaries to make games more accessible. Unsure of where to find the accessibility settings click here or watch the video below.
What is your thought on the new PlayStation Access controller? Was it a hit or a miss? Share your thoughts in the comment box below.
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