Those with visual impairments often cannot fully enjoy many video games. Microsoft aims to change this with a new controller that features a special display with Braille.
What has Microsoft introduced? So far, it is just a concept, but Microsoft plans to develop a new controller. This is specifically aimed at people with visual impairments. It features a display that “shows” Braille.
This is intended to allow visually impaired people to play more comfortably. The controller seems to be designed for those who still have some vision but can hardly read text on the TV screen.
This is how visually impaired gamers can play better
How does the controller work? Basically, it is a regular Xbox controller that can also be used as such. However, on the back, there is a display with Braille and several “paddles.”
The Braille display can show Braille. Depending on the text in the game, bumps come out of the display that the player can feel and thus read the text.
The “paddles” are used to operate the bumps and to write texts in Braille. This allows a visually impaired gamer to read text in Braille and make inputs themselves.
Additionally, the “paddles” can be used to directly select certain elements in the menus of the games.
What else can the controller do? Through the “paddles” and the display, it is also possible to send haptic feedback. For example, it could be thought of providing hints about where the player needs to go next by vibrating the paddles on one side.
A completely new market
How are players reacting to this? Generally, players appreciate that Microsoft is doing more for disabled gamers. This also expands the target audience, creating a win-win situation. Disabled people gain more quality of life because they can play video games better, and Microsoft gains more customers.
sav86 comments on Reddit: “This is not only good press for Microsoft, they are also opening the door to a previously untapped market by reaching out to people with disabilities.”
When will the controller be released? Currently, it is just a concept that Microsoft is working on. A patent that the company filed last year. Whether and when this “Braille Controller” will come to market is still unclear.
