Gamers with disabilities can find it difficult to use standard gaming controllers. Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller (opens in a new window) is a device that allows gamers with disabilities to remap the buttons on a standard controller. They can also connect switches or other input devices that better match their body shape, strength, dexterity, and overall abilities.

Both the Neil Squire Society and Electronic Arts (EA) agree gaming should be accessible to everyone!

On July 25th, our Makers Making Change team will be at EA‘s Burnaby Headquarters, where 150 EA staff members will learn how 3D printing and electronics skills can be used to build a variety of accessibility switches.

Together, we will build the following switches, some of which are already part of the Makers Making Change Project Library (opens in a new window): Raindrop Switch, AT Makers Keyswitch, Resistive Touch Switch, Light Touch Switch, Compact Switch. These switches come in a variety of sizes and types and can be plugged into Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller to help gamers of all abilities play video games.

Here is a video from Microsoft with some young gamers who have benefited from this access: