Microsoft officially released its hardware such as the Xbox Adaptive Controller.
The Xbox Adaptive Joystick, designed to assist players with limited mobility, features a form factor reminiscent of the Nunchuk for Nintendo's retro Wii console. The similarities between Microsoft's product and the Wii Remote attachment are immediately noticeable: both have a similar shape with two back buttons and an analog stick on top, and they both even require a corded plug-in due to their lack of wireless functionality. However, Microsoft's Adaptive Joystick adds four additional buttons on the top, offering even more control options.
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Breaking Down The Xbox Adaptive Joystick
Players can purchase the controller on the Microsoft Store for $29.99 USD. In addition to sharing a design similar to the Wii Remote Nunchuk, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick offers a range of features that make it an excellent companion for Xbox controller s. It can be plugged directly into an Xbox console or PC, and it pairs seamlessly with the Adaptive Controller, creating a fully accessible setup. This allows players to customize their gaming experience to meet their specific needs.
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The Xbox Adaptive Joystick also includes button mapping, enabling players to create multiple profiles and easily switch between them. To further cater to the unique needs of gamers, the joystick offers optional 3D-printable accessories, such as joystick toppers for those with gripping difficulties. These files are completely free, though players will need access to a 3D printer to print them.
Button mapping refers to the ability to reassign or reconfigure the functions of buttons on a controller, allowing s to customize their input control.
The joystick also comes in packaging designed to be accessible as well as sustainable. This is similar to the packaging Microsoft did for its Adaptive Controller.
Microsoft Continues To Lead In Gaming Hardware Accessibility
Other Companies Should Take Note
The announcement of the Xbox Adaptive Joystick release came as part of the 15th annual Microsoft Ability Summit. This summit included over 20,000 attendees from more than 160 countries coming together to discuss accessibility. In an Official Microsoft Blog post, Microsoft's VP and Chief Accessibility Officer Jenny Lay-Flurrie highlighted the company's "long-standing commitment to investing in accessibility." This commitment is reflected in the company's ongoing release of both hardware and software, like the new joystick, designed to make technology more inclusive for everyone.
Microsoft has been particularly focused on advancing accessibility within the gaming industry. This effort extends beyond hardware, with Xbox offering a variety of software features that enhance accessibility. Players can easily access options like magnification, narration, color filters, and contrast adjustments. While other companies are introducing more accessibility features, such as Sony with its Access Controller, Microsoft and Xbox continue to lead by example, setting the standard for inclusivity in gaming.
Source: Xbox, Official Microsoft Blog
