Xbox continues to impress with its accessibility capabilities for players with disabilities. Along with some updates to the Xbox console line, Microsoft opened A few new controllers to help more people experience the joy of frictionless gaming on Wednesday.
The Xbox Adaptive Joystick fills what Microsoft calls the broadly expressed “need for an affordable, single joystick” for use with other Xbox controllers. Designed for people with limited mobility, it has four customizable button inputs on the front, a standard thumbstick, and two more mappable bumper and trigger-style buttons.
You can connect the wired stick to the Xbox Adaptive Controller or console. Alternatively, you can link it to a standard Xbox gamepad using Xbox Controller Assist (solo or couch co-op). Adding to its versatility, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick also features a quarter-inch thread for mounting.
The joystick will cost just $30 when it arrives in early 2025.
Microsoft also provides 3D printable files for adaptive thumbsticks designed for those who have trouble gripping the standard Xbox sticks. You can print special base-shaped adapters for attaching materials such as a plate, dome, narrow rod, “boot” (deep, bowl-like surface), sphere, and clay or moldable plastic.
Of course, you need to own a 3D printer, use a friend to print them, or find a professional service. Here are the printable files Free from Xbox Design Lab.
In collaboration with 8BitDo, the Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller is a gamepad with all inputs on the top surface. It has low-resistance buttons and “high-sensitivity” Hall-effect joysticks. It even includes a non-slip silicone mat to keep things stable. As a bonus, it includes 8BitDo’s much-loved Super Buttons, a first-of-its-kind package Nintendo inspired mechanical keyboard.
The 8BitDo Lite SE 2.4G is available starting today for $60.
Finally, the ByoWave Proteus Controller, It was announced earlier this year for Global Accessibility Awareness Dayit is possible to order now. The innovative, modular gamepad features plug-and-play parts that offer over 100 million combinations tailored to your needs. Proteus is available in the US, EU, UK and Canada for $299.
