Xbox One Adaptive controller revealed as Microsoft opens up gaming to more people with disabilities
Microsoft's goal was to make the device 'as adaptable as possible... in a way that is plug-and-play, extensible, and affordable,' according to the head of Xbox, Phil Spencer
MICROSOFT today revealed its first ever accessible controller specifically designed to make gaming easier for those with limited mobility.
The Xbox Adaptive Controller has been designed in conjunction with , the Cerebral Palsy foundation and others. It will cost £74.99 and be available globally later this year.
The new controller features two large buttons which can be assigned any function from the existing controllers, and can be easily operated with elbows and feet as well as hands.
"Our goal was to make the device as adaptable as possible, so gamers can create a setup that works for them in a way that is plug-and-play, extensible, and affordable," Phil Spencer, Head of Xbox said.
The device is meant to act as a simple stand-alone controller and act as a hub for other specialised devices that can plug into it that many gamers with mobility issues may already have.
It also works in conjunction with a normal controller using the firm's 'co-pilot' functionality. This lets one controller to control some aspects of the game, while the Adaptive Controller to do the rest. This means that a player who is unable to use analogue sticks effectively can use the Adaptive controller for everything else, while a friend co-pilots using them on a traditional controller.
Add-on devices -- some of which Microsoft will be selling through its online store -- include bite switches, foot pedals mouth-operated quadsticks, and even devices using “sip and puff” tubes specifically for quadriplegic players.
SpecialEffect founder, Dr Mick Donegan, said: "Microsoft have a product here that has the potential to help many people globally to enjoy the magic of video games."
Microsoft has promised more information at E3 next month. The Adapative Controller will also be compatible with Windows 10 PCs and not require any additional software or set-up compared to a regular Xbox controller.
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