Sony has unveiled a brand new controller for the PlayStation 5. But this is not just another PS5 DualSense. The new access controller was announced to provide better access to video games, so here are all the details.
Sony access controller, also known as Project Leonardo
A few years ago, Microsoft released the Xbox Adaptive Controller to help players with disabilities have a better and more accessible gaming experience. Now, the Japanese tech giant has released an accessibility controller for the PlayStation 5. As the name suggests, this new peripheral is also designed for gamers with different needs. The Sony Access Controller is now available for pre-order on the official PlayStation website. The new controller starts off with a customizable analog joystick that is adjustable with a slider. It even has holes in the base of the controller, which allows you to secure it and avoid accidental falls.
To enhance personalization, all of the controller’s button covers can be swapped out. This way, the user can customize them to suit their own needs. Sony developed the access controller in collaboration with AbleGamers, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving accessibility in gaming. Interestingly, the product comes with only one joystick, and the brand recommends that customers buy two access controllers at the same time. In addition, you can also use DualSense or a second joystick through one of the controller’s four expansion ports.
The Access Controller is available in the US, Europe, and the UK for $89.99, €89.99, and £79.99, respectively. In recent years, accessibility has become a prominent focus in gaming. Some games have even started to add more accessibility features. A great example is Forza Motorsport, which introduced audio prompts in the game, allowing visually impaired players to play the game using voice commands.
