Sony has today announced its PS5 accessibility controller, first revealed as Project Leonardo, will be called the Access Controller. A new PlayStation Blog post shares a deep dive into the pad’s creation, the user interface that’ll accompany it, and details on how each button helps disabled gamers better interact with video games. A new registration page is set up to give those interested all the latest news in their inbox.
As part of Global Accessibility Awareness Day, the hardware manufacturer reveals the PS5 Access Controller will “include a wide array of swappable button and stick caps so players can freely create different layouts that work for their unique strength, range of motion, and physical needs”. Each package offers three types of analog stick caps, button caps in various shapes and sizes (pillow, flat, wide flat, overhang, and curve), swappable button caps, and the option to attach the pad to AMPS mounts and tripods. You can also lay it flat or orient it 360 degrees. Custom switches, buttons, and analog sticks can then be attached through four 3.5mm AUX ports.
Accompanying the controller is an in-depth user interface on PS5 that helps disabled gamers to customise every option. As many as two Access Controllers and one DualSense (or DualSense Edge) pad can all work together to form a single set of buttons. “Similar to the DualSense Edge wireless controller, players can also fine-tune the starting position and sensitivity of input. The ability to adjust deadzones (the distance your analog stick moves before it’s recognized in a game) and stick sensitivity is particularly helpful for players to improve their fine motor control during gameplay.”
Sony has also released a new video detailing its commitment to accessibility:
“We’ll have more to share about the Access controller for PS5, including more product and release details, in the months ahead,” senior vice president of platform experience, Hideaki Nishino, signs off saying. “Thanks to all the players who’ve shared valuable feedback and inspire us every day to bring the joy of gaming to more people through innovation and collaboration with you – our community.”
