Playing with a Disability: A Guide to Accessible Gaming Gear

Gaming has always been about multiple things: immersive experiences, storytelling, and competition — but accessibility has often been an afterthought. While modern consoles offer built-in software accessibility features, hardware options have lagged behind. Standard controllers, designed with a one-size-fits-all approach, often fail to accommodate players with disabilities. 

Today’s guide is all about exploring the accessible gear that does get it right. From adaptive controllers to game-changing thumbsticks, join us to find out how you can make playing with a disability more accessible with the right gear.

The challenge: standard equipment isn’t always accessible

Despite improvements in software accessibility, hardware remains a significant barrier. Traditional controllers lack the flexibility and adaptability necessary for many disabled gamers. Some common issues include:

• Too large, too small: whilst the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S controllers are well-made, they are quite often either too small or too large for certain hand sizes. 

• Restrictive button layouts: playing with a disability can be even trickier with button layouts that are designed with non-disabled gamers in mind. 

• Subpar thumbsticks: all of the major controllers share the same problem — their standard thumbsticks are rubbish. When playing with a disability, the lack of height, grip and comfort can cause consistent issues. 

These barriers can make gaming frustrating, tiring and worst of all, inaccessible for some players. Luckily, the right accessible gaming gear can make playing with a disability much more viable.

The solution: customisable or adaptive gaming gear

The gaming industry has been steadily evolving into a more inclusive and enabling space, a trend that’s gained significant momentum over the past decade. With major console makers releasing adaptive controllers and third-party companies devising ingenious accessibility solutions, innovation in inclusive design is transforming the gaming experience.

Modular controller attachments from Thumb Soldiers can adapt existing, non-accessible controllers (like the PS5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch offerings) to specific needs. For example, our Shrooms Kit provide increased surface area for comfort and range, whilst Sticks Kit provides unparalleled versatility for every gamer, all for a fraction of the price of an adaptive controller.

The impact: making playing with a disability more accessible than ever

Accessible gaming gear doesn’t just make games more playable; it makes them more enjoyable. Here are just a few ways these innovations improve the gaming experience:

• Enhanced comfort: ergonomic designs reduce strain and fatigue, allowing for longer, more enjoyable sessions.

• Increased precision: customisable setups give players more control, enabling them to tune gameplay experiences to better match their abilities / tempo. 

• Greater inclusion: these tools don’t just make gaming easier for those with disabilities — it makes gaming a more inclusive, dynamic place altogether. The more the merrier, after all. 

Tips for getting the most from accessible gaming gear

Finding the best setup often involves trial and error. Each option has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the ideal choice depends on your specific needs. The key is to explore different assistive technologies to find the perfect fit for your gaming experience.

• Identify your needs: evaluate your gaming habits and challenges to determine what type of gear will work best for you.

• Research products: look into brands and products that specialise in accessibility. Many manufacturers offer detailed guides and support for setup. There are sites that offer guidance on accessibility-focused tech like:

  • SpecialEffect's GameAccess & OneSwitch (UK)

  • Able Gamers & Gaming Readapted (USA)

  • AccessibleGaming / ToegankelijkGaming (BE)

  • Hitclic (FR)

• Seek Community Support: there are more forums and social media groups focused on accessible gaming than ever. For example, r/disabledgamers is a wonderfully supportive community built to support those that play with a disability, with special focus on accessible gear and accessible games. 

• Reach out to Thumb Soldiers: we have a number of accessibility thumbsticks built to accommodate playing with a disability, and we’re always happy to discuss them at length. Don’t be afraid to get in touch. 

Playing with a disability: more accessible than ever, with the right gear

Gaming isn’t just entertainment. It’s an art-form that prioritises interactivity, and is able to offer unique experiences as a result. We feel very strongly that those experiences shouldn’t be locked behind outmoded gear that doesn’t cater to those that play differently. 

Luckily, accessible gaming gear makes those experiences more attainable than ever. Want some pointers on how to play your favourite PlayStation and Xbox games with a disability? Check our blog.