3. Before Microsoft’s new controller, how did the gamer community — especially gamers with disabilities — adapt video game technology to meet the needs of diverse users?
4. How has the Adaptive Controller affected the lives of gamers with disabilities like Ms. Hawley?
5. Why will the new controller’s versatility also be attractive to the broader community of gamers, including professional gamers, according to Bryce Johnson, Microsoft’s inclusive lead for product research and accessibility?
6. The article concludes with a quotation from Mark Barlet, a disabled Air Force veteran and founder of AbleGamers:
If you’re on the streets, everyone knows you’re a profoundly disabled individual. You can’t hide this fact. But in a video game, you’re a player. We all jump into video games for some level of fantasy.
Do you agree with Mr. Barlet? Are video games a way to escape the limitations of everyday life and jump into fantasy? What draws you to video games?
Finally, tell us more about what you think:
— What did you learn from the article? What was most interesting or surprising to you? In what ways do video games in general, and controllers in particular, meet or not meet your needs? Do you think you would want to use the Xbox Adaptive Controller?
— What role do video games have in your life? Do you consider yourself a gamer? Or are you just an occasional player? In what ways has gaming opened up new worlds for you? What life lessons has gaming taught you?
— How would you redesign your favorite game, console or controller to be more accessible to gamers with a range of different needs?
— In 2010, Congress passed the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, which requires companies to make computers, smartphones, gaming consoles and other technology accessible to people with disabilities. What industries, companies and products would you like to see create or redesign products to better meet the diverse needs of its users?
Other Resources
Video Games Are a Waste of Time? Not for Those With E-sports Scholarships
