I lost the ability to play using standard controllers in 2019. Due to the progressive nature of my physical disability, my hands can no longer comfortably press buttons or move the sticks unless the device is placed in a very specific position on a flat surface. And with the ergonomic nature of the DualSense controller, I have yet to play a PlayStation 5 game due to this issue. Now, with the release of the PlayStation Access console, I can finally enjoy Sony exclusive games again – albeit not without some frustration and annoyance.
The Access Controller is PlayStation’s answer to accessible devices. While their studios are constantly innovating with inclusive designs and accessible features, the hardware shortage has been notable, especially considering the release of the Xbox Adaptive Controller in 2018. Now with its release, it proves that there is no single solution to the disabled experience, especially in gaming.
Comprehensive programs
Before exploring the design and physical features of an access controller, it’s important to evaluate what makes this device a success: the excellent software. For starters, each button is customizable, not only in terms of its placement, but also through its functions. Although every controller offers the ability to remap button mapping, here you can customize if a button press is treated as a single press and released or held down. Traditionally, you’d need to dig through the game’s options menu in hopes of finding a setting that would allow toggling actions like aiming, sprinting, or crouching. Now, you can simply map Button 1 as “R1” and select a setting to make the controller behave as if “R1” was pressed until it is pressed again. This feature in itself is revolutionary with hardware accessibility because it means we no longer need to ask developers to include or patch this option in older games. Should these settings always be included in games? definitely. But it is no longer possible to reach them without them.
In addition to activating toggle switches, Access Controller lets you choose the direction of the joystick. Personalization and customization are key, especially when creating devices for a special needs audience with individual needs based on their disability. The Access Controller requires you to choose the position of the stick by rotating the controller—facing up, left, right, or down—before enabling control customization. The mode can be changed at any time, but I chose to have the joystick facing downward, allowing me to rest my hand comfortably on the edge of my table. What’s more, two Access Controllers can be paired with the PS5 simultaneously and work as a single unit, meaning it’s possible to have two separate positions for the stick. For many physically disabled gamers, the placement of the controls is just as important as the force required to press the buttons, and this setting adds even more necessary customization.
Finally, the access controller allows the use of three distinct profiles, each with its own custom button assignments and toggle switches. While this feature isn’t new (both Xbox and Nintendo allow multiple controller profiles), the Access Controller implements it seamlessly and lets you switch seamlessly with the push of a button. Currently, I have dedicated profiles for less complex games like turn-based RPGs, button-heavy games like Spider-Man 2, and a standard profile that I use when trying out a new game for the first time. It’s a feature that allows me to comfortably switch between multiple games per session without having to reconfigure and save new button combinations with each game. The Profile button is one of my favorite features, but it also highlights my biggest criticism of the Access Controller.
Inaccessible design
From a software standpoint, the Access Controller is an accessibility achievement. Examining the physical design, this is a perplexing puzzle that often leaves me physically exhausted after playing for hours. As mentioned above, the ability to switch between profiles is incredible, but the force required to press the button to do so is beyond what I can physically achieve. The profile button is located on the side of the joystick, and it’s so small and requires so much force that I can’t switch profiles without the help of others. Every time I try a new game and want to change my current control layout, I need to find someone to press the button for me. It severely hinders the independence of physically disabled players by requiring others to do something as simple as pressing a button. Unfortunately, the force required to press a button is not limited to this particular button.
Eight of the nine main buttons on the access controller can be difficult to press, especially depending on which of the four button covers are placed on the controller. When playing straight out of the box, the primary button covers have curves and ridge-like domes which were very difficult for me to use automatically. Fortunately, the box has three other types of caps — a flat button with a slight depression, a thicker button with an upward curve, and a slanted cap that hangs over the central black button. After switching the caps to some of the above, it’s easier for me to use the device, but the access controller box only has about four of each of the other caps types. Anyone who needs more than what’s offered will be required to purchase another controller — costing $89.99 — because the button covers are not for sale separately. Fortunately, I was successfully able to use a mix of different uppercase letters to play, but despite this I was only able to use a limited amount of buttons because I couldn’t use the entire controller.
The shape of the access controller is the biggest drawback. Its circular design is inaccessible to disabled players like me with small hands, atrophied hands, or limited reach. Of the nine buttons available, I only have four of them. Because it is a circle, no matter which direction I place the controller, the problem remains. This issue can be mitigated with software capabilities, such as using the DualSense in conjunction with the Access Controller – a feature similar to Xbox’s Copilot. This is my favorite setup, and the most comfortable, but I still lose access to five buttons.
The standard DualSense has 15 buttons (including the touchpad and stick); Even with two built-in controllers, I can only use eight of the 15 controllers, which means I constantly need to reconfigure the controls, especially if the game requires complex inputs.
While it’s also possible to pair two access controllers with the DualSense, if an individual can’t move their hands across one access controller, two are simply out of the question.
To compensate for a physically disabled gamer being unable to reach any of the buttons, the controller includes four standard 3.5mm ports located directly across from the joystick. While that number seems small compared to the 19 on the Xbox Adaptive Controller, the Access Controller is a controller, while the XAC is a fully customizable hub.
I’ve been able to fit some of my existing adaptive gear into these ports, specifically the remaining switches from the Logitech Adaptive Gaming Kit, currently available for $99.99. Although PlayStation is launching its own Adaptive Gaming Kit in partnership with Logitech next month for $79.99, there’s no need to wait until January to purchase additional buttons and switches. This solution works, but I wish the access console had more inputs for modifications.
The physical design and accompanying equipment have some benefits. The Access Controller includes three joysticks – a large ball like a wheelchair joystick, a small cap like a Nintendo Switch Joy-Con, and a ribbed stick that mirrors what’s traditionally found on most console controllers. Combine that with the software settings that allow you to freely adjust sensitivity, and I never felt fatigued using the stick – my preferred option being the standard boosted option. There is also a single button cover located over two buttons for easy access, and can be used with software options that combine one to two buttons.
Are you looking for a comprehensive review of the PlayStation Access Controller? Look no further! IGN has recently published an in-depth review of this innovative gaming accessory, providing valuable insights into its performance and features. From its design and functionality to its compatibility with various games, this review covers it all. Whether you’re considering purchasing the controller or simply interested in learning more about it, IGN’s review is a must-read for any gamer.