Conventional controllers, like those found on the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3, work if you have the mobility to use them. For those unable to maneuver joysticks or reach out of the way buttons, gaming turns into a MacGyver-esque learning experience. Tara Lynn Tefertiller, an accessibility advocate, came to GDC 2010 to demonstrate a few of the ways disabled gamers have had to improvise with controllers to play their favorite games.
The modified controllers use electronics that are ripped out of stock controllers. Then, they are mated to devices with modified buttons, varied positions, and, in many cases, entirely different means of input.
Tefertiller explained that disabled gamers generally turn to the PC versions of games due to broader availability of customizable control schemes. Many console games don't provide control schemes that can be remapped. Although Tefertiller mentioned that even if the options aren't built in, asking never hurts. She went on to explain that one gamer (a pro gamer actually), Randy "NOM4D" Fitzgerald, went so far as to contact Infinity Ward about modifying Call of Duty 4. The developers in turn responded by patching the game in a way that allowed him to play and then named the new setting after his alias.
The pictured controller allows the user to blow and suck to actuate buttons. Joystick movement is done by pressing the mouth or chin against the white plate. Trigger buttons were removed from the Xbox 360 controller and were mounted to the plate. A data ribbon connects to an existing Xbox 360 controller to map the new control scheme over to the electronics.
To learn more about game accessibility, check out the IGDA Game Accessibility group
Square Enix launches Final Fantasy X 25th anniversary site, revealing new Nomura art, books, music releases, and merchandise.
Look I know VIII has its issues and all that but how on earth can the do big anniversary events with new artwork and merchandise for VII, IX and X yet VIII got sweet f*** all.
They could have given it something during its 25th anniversary yet all it got was a single Happy Anniversary post on their social media.
they should know that we are OG fans of VIII as it sold truckload as well. not as much as VII or X. I personally didn't like IX but X and VI are my personal fav.
Shadow Hearts 2 covenant is another game I love. I hope one day someone can make remake, I would be delighted
Final Fantasy VIII is great and you are always the first to defend it in the comments
Omar writes: "With the Horizon Festival coming to breathtaking Japan, you’ll need the essential gear to prove you’ve got what it takes to become a Horizon Legend as you cruise, drift and explore an open world full of spectacular driving experiences. That’s why we’re happy to announce the newest Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Controller and Wireless Headset collection, featuring inspired designs from Forza Horizon 6. The bright cyan and lime colorways celebrate the Horizon Festival’s recognition of iconic cars and hit music, with special features that are sure to impress any collector."
A brutal reset, a smarter story, and a return to what made it great—Mortal Kombat (2011) revived the series.
Underrated comment. I used to hate that game so much that any time my siblings asked me to play it, I just picked Hom and shut myself down mid-match.
15 years went by so fast. I remember playing through the story mode at launch.
Hopefully a big open (as in not owned by Sony, MS, or Ninty) like Logitech can make Handicap friendly controllers. The more gamers the better, I remember when "THEY" thought video games were just a fad....