Resources for Universal Video Game Access

Adaptive Controllers

• QuadStick: This mouth-operated device can be used as a gaming controller and/or as a keyboard and mouse. The QuadStick is designed to work with a wide range of gaming platforms including: Windows PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo consoles. Some key features of the QuadStick include: joystick control, customizable mouthpieces, sip-and-puff inputs/outputs, button inputs and customizable profiles. The QuadStick site features a large user forum as well as downloadable controller profiles for specific games.
• Evil One-Handed Controllers: This company builds customized one-handed controllers for Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PS4 and PS5. You can also reach out to them directly about a custom order inquiry if the controllers available on their website do not fit your needs or if you have a specific need.
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• Elite Xbox Controller: This is an adaptable controller with customizable options including joystick and D-Pad toppers and paddles on the underside of the controller that can be easily remapped to function as alternative sites for controller buttons.
• Besavior: A PlayStation 5 compatible controller provides the option for you to apply the Elite Paddle Kit (sold separately) to the back. This controller also has embedded open source Linux for further customization opportunities.
• Axis Controllers: These controllers by Blue Tip Gaming can be a great option for gaming with colorful round buttons and large arcade-style joysticks.
• Xbox Adaptive Controller: The XAC is a highly versatile controller that is designed to cater to the needs of gamers of all abilities. Some key features include:
  • 19 inputs (3.5mm jacks) and two USB ports allowing users to connect external switches, buttons, joysticks, foot pedals and other assistive devices.
  • Button remapping allows users to customize the function of each connected input device. Users can save multiple button profiles for different games which can be swapped quickly to suit the controls needed for a specific game.
  •  Mounting options are available on the underside of the controller, allowing gamers to use threaded inserts and various options for mounting customization.
  • The XAC is directly compatible with the Xbox One, Series X, Series S and Windows PC. It can also be made compatible with PS4 and Nintendo Switch using a console tuner.
• Console Tuners for Cross-Console Gaming Devices: These devices are designed to work with multiple gaming platforms, allowing players to use their customized controllers on different consoles.
  • Brook Converters
  • Titan
  • Cronus
  • Besavior

Gaming Accessories

• Warfighter Engaged: A nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of veterans through personally adapted devices. They modify video game and RC vehicle controllers including options like accessible button and joystick options.
• Logitech Adaptive Gaming Kit: A kit of 12 buttons of various types and sizes that work with the Xbox Adaptive controller.
• UltraStik: An arcade-style analog joystick.
• VoiceAttack: This software allows players to use their voice as a controller via customizable verbal commands to complete keystroke and other functions. Players can create command list profiles for each game they play with unlimited profiles. This is PC compatible.

Game Reviews, News, Organizations

As more options become available to players with disabilities, the internet has become a clearing house for information, tips and reviews on how to make the most of your gaming experience. Here are just a few of the resources available.

• SpecialEffect:  A UK-based charity that promotes accessible gaming. They have a helpful YouTube channel with videos.
• AbleGamers: Provides the largest database of mainstream video game titles, complete with reviews focused exclusively on the accessibility of a given title.
• Warfighter Engaged: A nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of veterans through personally adapted devices. In addition to their accessible gaming products, they also hold gaming clinics, workshops, accessibility lectures and classes.
• The Controller Project: This project, run by its founder Caleb Kraft, provides donated modified video game controllers to meet the individual’s specific functional needs.
• DAGERSystem: Source for accessibility reviews and video games.
• GameFly: Great tool for researching controller configurations and trying games before you buy them.
• Gaming Readapted: How to perform adaptive gaming assessments, choose a controller and games, adjust specific settings on various controllers, and connect controllers to different consoles. Be sure to click their YouTube link to access a variety of instructional videos and demonstrations of adaptive gaming styles.
• International Game Developers Association: The IGDA strives to make video games playable for everyone, especially gamers with disabilities.

Forums

• Disabled Gamers: Reddit message board for posting links and questions about game accessibility.
• DisabledGamers: Discord for disabled gamers.

Need help finding the right controller for yourself or a friend? Visit the resources below:

• AbleGamers
• SpecialEffect

The Tech Lab offers these resources for educational purposes and does not endorse any products, including those mentioned on this site. Many others are available. Please check online for additional products, manufacturers and user reviews.