Xbox Adaptive Controller from Microsoft almost didn't make it into production, but it seems like teams from across the corporation stepped in to make sure the project got the money it needed.
The Xbox Adaptive Controller was once "on the cut list" and in danger of losing funding, according to Robin Seiler, corporate vice president of Windows and devices at Microsoft, in an interview with The Verge. The controller was initially developed by employees as a result of workplace hackathons as a means of enhancing accessibility options.
Employees from the Xbox and Surface teams, according to Seiler, saved the project, inspiring cooperation between international divisions dedicated to "make it happen."
According to Seiler, the teams remained adamant that "No, this is genuinely vital for the globe" in the face of financial difficulties. People should be able to play games if they want to; this is crucial regardless of revenue or brand positioning.
Following the release of the Xbox Adaptive Controller, Microsoft employees went on to discuss a culture shift at the firm that prioritises diversity. This message is still relevant today and was brought up at the Tokyo Game Show just last month when Xbox CEO Phil Spencer and Corporate Vice President Sarah Bond emphasised the value of breaking down boundaries between players. While Spencer expressed a wish to see everyone play together "no matter your skill," Bond highlighted the Xbox Adaptive Controller.
Anita Mortaloni, the Xbox director of accessibility, reiterated those comments in an interview with IGN and outlined how industry cooperation enhances accessibility.
Although everyone of us is capable of doing a great deal on our own, Mortaloni noted that when we collaborate and share ideas with one another as well as with the community or other businesses, we accomplish much more and move the industry forward much further.
Since the release of the Xbox Adaptive Controller in 2018, Microsoft has continued to expand its selection of accessibility peripherals. The business announced this year what it had in store for the Microsoft Adaptive Mouse and Adaptive Keyboard. Game assessments, a procedure where creators can study standards and request feedback in cooperation with Xbox's Gaming & Disability Community, are one of the publisher's other accessible initiatives.
