Gaming brands are creating controllers with more widely accessible designs
Trend - Gaming and consumer electronics brands are creating modular controllers with accessible designs. These are larger controllers with extreme customization, allowing them to fit the needs of gamers with limited mobility. With larger companies entering this space, prices are now more accessible.
Insight - Console gamers have seldom had the ability to choose their input devices, with most previous console generations only supporting one official controller with one design. This one-size-fits-all design is exclusionary to individuals with limited mobility. However, these gamers do not want to be excluded and should not have to pay inflated prices for the same enjoyment as others. It is then mutually beneficial for brands to create alternative solutions for these customers.
Insight - Console gamers have seldom had the ability to choose their input devices, with most previous console generations only supporting one official controller with one design. This one-size-fits-all design is exclusionary to individuals with limited mobility. However, these gamers do not want to be excluded and should not have to pay inflated prices for the same enjoyment as others. It is then mutually beneficial for brands to create alternative solutions for these customers.
Workshop Question - How is your brand ensuring its product or service is accessible for consumers with varying needs?
Trend Themes
1. Accessible Gaming Controllers - Gaming brands are creating modular controllers with larger, more widely-accessible designs that allow for customization to better fit the needs of gamers with limited mobility.
2. Expansion Kits for Accessibility Controllers - Brands are expanding their line of accessibility controllers by creating attachable accessories that provide more options for individual customization, allowing gamers to create a controller that fully meets their needs without being limited to standard button layouts.
3. One-handed Gaming Controllers - Brands are creating one-handed controllers that use 3D-printed components to help players access all the various buttons with a single hand, making it possible for gamers with physical limitations or mobility issues to effectively enjoy some of their favorite titles.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - The gaming industry is at the forefront of creating accessible controllers that benefit gamers with limited mobility.
2. Consumer Electronics - Consumer electronics brands are following the trend of creating accessible gaming controllers, with some companies focusing entirely on creating products for those with disabilities.
3. Assistive Technology - The assistive technology industry is seeing a growth in products that focus on making gaming more accessible to individuals with disabilities, with many of the products being created for use with accessible gaming controllers.
