What you need to know
- The Xbox Adaptive Controller allows people with limited mobility to play games.
- The accessory just won a prestigious D&AD "Black Pencil" design award.
- The Black Pencil awards are highly coveted accolades.
- You can purchase the controller for $100 through the Microsoft Store.
The Xbox Adaptive Controller is making it easier for gamers with limited mobility to play their favorite titles, and this progress is being recognized by various organizations around the world. The accessory allows various different peripherals to attach to its numerous ports, providing options for those who have limited mobility. On top of the controller lie two large programmable buttons, alongside quick access to the "Xbox," "Menu," "View," and other key inputs. What makes this controller truly unique is along the rear. There are nineteen 3.5 mm jacks, hooking the console into an existing ecosystem of accessible buttons and other input devices.
Today, Microsoft announced that the accessory won a prestigious D&AD "Black Pencil" award. Microsoft said the following on its website when announcing the Xbox Adaptive Controller's win.
The Xbox Adaptive Controller has won one of the world's top design awards during an event in the United Kingdom. The device, which makes it easier for people with limited mobility to play video games, was awarded the prestigious Black Pencil in the Product Design category at the D&AD Festival in London on Thursday... According to the organizers of the globally-recognized craft and creativity event, the Black Pencil 'is reserved for work that is truly groundbreaking in its field. It is the highest accolade there is to offer.' Only a handful are awarded each year, if at all.
Xbox Project Manager Evelyn Thomas further discussed the accessory's inclusivity-focused design.
It's an honor and privilege to receive the D&AD Black Pencil. It's a product that was designed with inclusivity at the heart and was formed through collaborations with amazing partners and individuals. We continue to be moved by the recognition it has received, helping it to stand out as a true first-of-its-kind – in gaming and beyond.
It's great to see that the Xbox Adaptive Controller is being recognized for allowing even more individuals to game. Hopefully, it'll trigger other companies like Nintendo and Sony to release similar accessories as well.
The Xbox Adaptive Controller is available on the Microsoft Store for $100. If you're someone who has limited mobility or known a gamer who does, be sure to take a look at this accessory because it has helped many of our friends already.
A platform for inclusion
The Xbox Adaptive Controller is the ultimate adaptive peripheral for those with unique accessibility needs. Tailor each standard button with a huge array of controls and add-ons to suit specific usability scenarios.
Excellent and affordable Xbox accessories
Up your Xbox experience with one (or all) of these budget accessories, all of which are approved by the gamers of Windows Central.
PowerA Play & Charge Kit for Xbox One ($15 at Amazon)
This charging kit keeps your Xbox One wireless controllers juiced up, and it offers batteries for two controllers. At just $15, this is hands-down our favorite budget charging companion.
ElecGear 4 Port USB Xbox One S Hub ($19 at Amazon)
This brilliant little USB splitter hub attaches perfectly to the side of your Xbox One S console. It's ideal for use with chargers, controllers, headsets, and more.
Controller Gear stand ($13 at Amazon)
Proudly display your Xbox gamepads with this stylish and functional stand. The licensed design is minimalist and black, and it has a hidden storage compartment, making the price of $13 a real steal.
