First impressions of the PlayStation Access Controller have popped up across the internet, as creators with various disabilities were invited to go hands-on with the device; and from all reports, it seems like PlayStation has taken a big step forward in empowering gamers.
The PlayStation Access Controller, formerly known as Project Leonardo, was designed for disabled gamers. It’s a highly customisable PlayStation 5 controller kit, and almost every aspect of its design can be altered, swapped, or adjusted to suit an individual’s needs. For more information on what comes in the kit, check out the official PlayStation Access Controller page.
Even the controller box itself was designed for accessibility. As someone with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I can personally attest to the difficulties of twisty ties and shrink-wrap for someone with limited hand and finger mobility. This forethought for accessible packaging further establishes PlayStation’s intentions to create a truly accessible gaming experience for all. You can take a peak inside the box over at the PlayStation Blog.
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Gaming A11y Consultant Paul Amadeus Lane confirmed their involvement in the creation of the controller via a Tweet (or Xeet?) late last week. “I’m so excited to finally share that I was part of the team that created PlayStation’s Access Controller. This controller is a game-changer for disabled gamers, and it’s going to break down barriers and create accessibility for the entire community,” Tweets Paul.
Blind Gamer Steve Saylor was one of the creators invited to the hands-on preview of the controller, and was thoroughly impressed. In their video review, Steve breaks down some of the unique functions the controller has and the additional settings on offer. My personal favourite is the ability to toggle button-presses in the menu; for example setting up a single button press to act as if you were holding the button down for a long time (which you may need for a quick-time-event). If you want to check out all of Steve’s thoughts, you can catch their video below.
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In addition to all the hype, Logitech also announced their brand new Adaptive Gaming Kit compatible with the PlayStation Access Controller. The kit comes complete with eight plug-and-play buttons and triggers, firm gaming mats, Velcro ties to help with mounting, and custom stick-on labels of PS5 symbols. It currently has a suggested retail price of $79.99 USD (no Australian pricing has been announced at time of writing), and is expected to be available globally starting January 2024.
Currently, the PlayStation Access Controller can be pre-ordered from JB Hi-Fi ($139.00 AUD) and EB Games Australia ($139.95 AUD), and is set to release on the 6th of December.
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