With the Xbox Adaptive Controller, Microsoft has had a controller in its range for over 4 years that makes it easier for people with disabilities to play games. With “Project Leonardo” Sony has now presented a corresponding, extremely adaptable controller kit. The main goal, according to Sony, was to develop a controller that would enable gamers with disabilities to “play on the PS5 more easily, more comfortably and for longer”.
Recently, Sony had increasingly added accessibility options to the surfaces of its games, such as God of War Ragnarök or The Last of Us Part II. With “Project Leonardo”, Sony now wants to go one step further and make gaming easier for players who have to live with disabilities. According to Sony, the controller kit was designed together with accessibility experts, community members and game developers. The highly configurable controller works with many third-party accessibility accessories and integrates directly into the PS5 console to open up new gaming possibilities.
The controller is helpful, for example, for people who have difficulty holding a controller or who find pressing groups of buttons or triggers a challenge. With “Project Leonardo”, these gamers receive a controller kit that works right out of the box or can be greatly adapted to their own needs. For example, all buttons on the controller can be freely arranged and programmed. A variety of third-party external accessories can be added via four 3.5mm aux ports. These can be dynamically connected or disconnected.
Sony has not yet revealed exactly when “Project Leonardo” will be available. The controller kit is currently still under development and relies on valuable feedback from the community, experts and organizations. More information about the timing of the product launch and additional features will be available at a later date.
