When it comes to accessibility in gaming, Microsoft takes two steps forward with the Xbox Adaptive Controller but a giant leap back with its ban on third-party devices. On Oct. 31, some Xbox players began receiving a new error code on their consoles, indicating that they were using unauthorized third-party controllers. Players were given a two-week notice until these controllers would no longer work with their consoles. Microsoft stated that the ban was meant to protect players’ gaming experiences and ensure controller quality and safety.
However, this ban presents barriers to many disabled gamers who rely on third-party controllers for accessibility reasons. Accessible leisure forms, like video games, are often undervalued when it comes to discussions about accessibility and the inclusion of disabled individuals. But considering the massive popularity of video games and the large number of disabled gamers worldwide, it’s essential to support their rights to participate in accessible forms of entertainment.
In recent years, Microsoft has been a leader in video game accessibility with the release of the Xbox Adaptive Controller. This customizable controller allows players to connect external devices such as foot pedals, joysticks, buttons, and switches. It provides an opportunity for disabled gamers to construct their unique gaming setup and participate in gaming experiences that were previously inaccessible due to mobility impairments.
However, the ban on third-party controllers contradicts Microsoft’s efforts to champion video game accessibility. While devices compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller are exempt from the ban, it still limits the range of accessibility options available to disabled gamers. Disability is individual, and not all disabled gamers can benefit from the Xbox Adaptive Controller. Other now-unauthorized devices offered different features and compatibility that some disabled players relied on.
Moreover, the Xbox Adaptive Controller has its downsides. It is not compatible with all external devices, such as computer mice, which other now-unauthorized devices supported. Additionally, the cost of the controller itself, along with external buttons and joysticks, can be a significant financial barrier for disabled individuals. With disabled individuals more likely to live in poverty and earn less annually, the price of assistive technologies like the Xbox Adaptive Controller becomes a limiting factor in their accessibility options.
The backlash from disabled gamers following Microsoft’s ban demonstrates that it does have an impact on their accessibility. The video game industry has historically overlooked disabled gamers as a legitimate consumer base, and the banning of assistive technology options is a setback in the battle for inclusive and accessible gaming.
Creating a truly inclusive and accessible society means supporting disabled individuals’ rights to participate in accessible forms of entertainment, leisure, and play. Video games are not just a means of entertainment but also a significant source of enjoyment for millions of disabled gamers worldwide. It’s crucial for companies like Microsoft to recognize and prioritize the diverse needs of their player base, ensuring that accessibility remains a top priority in their gaming experiences.
Note: This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization providing facts and analysis to help make sense of our complex world.
