Microsoft Announces New Xbox Adaptive Joystick

Gamescom has already unleashed new trailers and game reveals, but for some players, the big attraction was a new Xbox Adaptive Joystick. Microsoft’s new controller is designed to help players with limited mobility jump back into the world of video games.

Via the Xbox official site, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick is a simplified version of the standard Xbox controller that has four regular buttons, as well as two more buttons that handle the bumper and trigger commands. However, the thumbstick is truly customizable for the needs of individual gamers. Microsoft has already designed a number of different thumbsticks that can be 3D printed and inserted into the Xbox Adaptive Joystick. At least one of the options allows players to use their chin to control the movement if their hands aren’t able to do so.

During the Gamescom live stream, via the Verge, Xbox’s Kaitlyn Jones explained that disabled gamers were involved in testing out early versions of the adaptive joystick. Their input helped shape the final design and pricing of the controller. Additionally, Microsoft unveiled the Lite SE controller from 8BitDo, which offers disabled players even more options to choose from.

The Xbox Adaptive Joystick will cost $30, and it will be released early next year. 8BitDo’s Lite SE controller is already available on Amazon for $60. There’s also a separate Xbox Adaptive Controller, which is currently available at Best Buy.