Sony Releases Its First Accessible Controller

“Our aim for Project Leonardo is that it enables many more players to enjoy the remarkable games that PlayStation Studios and our development community are creating for PS5,” Ryan says. “Millions of gamers play games to escape into a fun experience, build new friendships, or hang out together. The opportunity to make gaming accessible to more players is something all of us at SIE are incredibly passionate about.”

The collaboration between disabled people and PlayStation can also be indicative of the business’s dedication to furthering accessibility. Project Leonardo shares similarities with Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller. On Xbox and Windows techniques, gamers can activate a characteristic referred to as Copilot, permitting them to attach two controllers that act as a single system. For bodily disabled gamers who wrestle to succeed in sure inputs and even press particular buttons, the chance to decide on is essential. In a press launch, a Sony Interactive Entertainment spokesperson defined the mechanics behind PlayStation’s model of Copilot:

Project Leonardo “can be used as a stand-alone controller or paired with additional Project Leonardo or DualSense wireless controllers. Up to two Project Leonardo controllers and one DualSense wireless controller can be used together as a single virtual controller, allowing players to mix and match devices to fit their particular gameplay needs or to play collaboratively with others. For example, players can augment their DualSense controller with a Project Leonardo controller or use two Project Leonardo controllers on their own. A friend or family member can also assist by helping to control the player’s game character with a DualSense controller or a second Project Leonardo controller. The controllers can be dynamically turned on or off and used in any combination.”

Aside from the power to make use of greater than one of many new controllers, the brand new system will also be paired with exterior third-party buttons and switches to boost its total accessibility. Sony didn’t say whether or not Project Leonardo might be suitable with the Logitech Adaptive Kit or what PC interoperability there might be, or even when Project Leonardo would be the system’s remaining identify when it goes to market. But extra alternate options imply that bodily disabled gamers gained’t be restricted of their setups. And, as Jim Ryan notes, that’s the purpose. 

With extra video games, and now consoles, open to all players, together with disabled people, gamers can discover and expertise the identical pop-culture-defining moments that video games proceed to create. Project Leonardo is only one software in an ever-growing arsenal of accessibility. But for bodily disabled people who find themselves unable to make use of a PS5, this controller will bridge the hole.

“Our mission is to use technology and innovation to make gaming more accessible for everyone,” Ryan says. “We’re working toward a future where players of all abilities can share in the joy of gaming. Whether through in-game accessibility settings, platform UI features, or new products like Project Leonardo, our PlayStation Studios and product development teams are deeply passionate about making that a reality. Our hope is that the gaming industry will become even more inclusive, and we’re grateful to play a part in this journey.”