Xbox has unveiled several new types of accessibility hardware at Gamescom, headlined by the new Xbox Adaptive Joystick.
Microsoft has long pushed accessibility in gaming, first launching the Adaptive Controller six years ago, but that comes with a hefty price tag. The Adaptive Joystick, on the other hand, lands at a much more affordable price. In a post on the Xbox Wire following the Aug. 21 announcement, a $29.99 price tag was announced for the Adaptive Joystick, which releases in 2025. While it can be used alongside the Adaptive Controller, it is not a necessity and can be used individually.
The Adaptive Joystick can be connected directly to console or PC, using a standard Xbox controller for menu navigation and Nexus button functionality. Alternatively, the joystick can be linked with an Xbox controller using Xbox Controller Assist.
Xbox’s new Adaptive Joystick can be customized with button remapping and multiple controller profiles, and can be connected to mount equipment to operate in a way that suits the player best—but Xbox isn’t done there. More options for thumbstick toppers to customize controllers are now available through Xbox Design Lab. The designs were collaborated with community members, charity organizations, and a hospital. These designs can be 3D printed from home.
There are six adaptive thumbstick topper designs available, including plate-shaped, dome-shaped, stick-shaped, and sphere-shaped toppers. Additionally, players can create their own shapes and designs.
For those looking for instant changes, a new Toggle Hold feature is now available for Xbox Insiders, and will help players who have difficulty holding prolonged button presses. The approach works similarly to sticky keys on a computer.
Two more accessible controllers, the 8BiDo Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller ($59.99) and the ByoWave Proteus Controller ($299), were also announced.
