Microsoft continues the push for better Accessibility in Gaming.

Microsoft has long been at the forefront of promoting accessibility in gaming, with a focus on ensuring that all players, regardless of physical abilities, can enjoy their gaming experiences. In recent announcements, Xbox introduced new accessibility options and an innovative adaptive joystick, further solidifying its commitment to inclusivity.

Players only need to explore their Xbox settings to see just how many accessibility features are being made available for gamers. Just to list a few:

Narrator - This screen reader lets the player hear audio descriptions for on-screen elements such as button prompts and text.

Magnifier - This ‘zoom in’ function allows users to magnify the screen to more easily read text and see images.

Controller Assist - This feature links two controllers, so you can use them as if they were one.

There's also a new ‘tag’ option when searching for titles, that allow players to more easily find games that cater to their abilities.

‘Xbox games in the Xbox Store on console and the Xbox app for PC can now display tags that indicate specific accessibility features, making it easier for players to find the titles that meet their needs and interests.’ Sourced - Microsoft

Read more about what accessibility features are available here.

In addition to software improvements, Microsoft has also introduced a new adaptive joystick, an extension of their efforts seen in the Xbox Adaptive Controller released a few years ago. The new joystick is designed with modularity in mind, allowing players to customize the device according to their needs.

Set to be released in 2025, the adaptive joystick has a starting price of around $30.

These new tools and updates are a significant step toward making gaming more inclusive, something that is increasingly demanded by players and supported by developers. The introduction of new accessibility features and the adaptive joystick will likely set a standard for other companies in the industry, ensuring that gaming remains a universal experience for all players.

What are your thoughts on these accessibility features? Do you see more accessibility features available in our games? Let us know!