Accessibility has been a big focus within the gaming industry over the past few years. PlayStation and Xbox have been at the forefront of the accessibility push, with a dedication to making their games more accessible to those that face challenges due to disabilities. While the push in software is commendable, more can always be done especially in the hardware space. Xbox’s own adaptive controller launched in 2018 to much applause. Now PlayStation has thrown its hat into the arena with Project Leonardo.
Flexibility At The Forefront
During CES 2023 PlayStation used a portion of its showcase to talk about Project Leonardo. The company’s all-new adaptive controller was built in cooperation with accessibility experts, game developers, and players. The main focus of the controller will be for players to be able to adjust the controller to their own specific needs. This is achieved with a variety of swappable components, and complete customizable button mapping and stick motion range. This means depending on the unique challenges of the user, they will be able to play to their very own physical strengths with the controller.
Sony’s own So Morimoto a designer who was one of the creatives that helped design Project Leonardo had this to say about the controller.
“Because players can customize Project Leonardo according to their needs, there is no one ‘right’ form factor. We want to empower them to create their own configurations. The controller can also flexibly accept combinations of accessibility accessories to create a unique aesthetic. I am excited that the design will be completed through collaboration with players rather than presenting them with a single form factor.”
It is great to see PlayStation bring such an expansive device into their ecosystem, especially with the continued rise of popularity of the PlayStation 5. While it certainly won’t solve every single issue, this first-party hardware to help more players be able to experience amazing gaming experiences is welcomed. Currently, there is no release date set for the controller, but we will undoubtedly hear more about this controller throughout 2023. You can check out a breakdown of the controller in its reveal trailer below. With a wealth of technical heavy details in the official PlayStation blog post.
Project Leonardo Introduction Trailer
What do you think of Project Leonardo? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to check back for the latest gaming news and information.