In this episode of OT Unleashed: Student Takeover, Katie Peterson and Dr. Erik Johnson explore how buttons and switches form the foundation of adaptive gaming setups. They discuss how occupational therapists evaluate motor control, endurance, and positioning to match individuals with the right inputs, and how thoughtful button mapping can transform simple technology into powerful tools for accessibility, independence, and meaningful participation in gaming.

Check out more information about buttons and switches here: Accessibility Solutions for Motor: Buttons and Switches — The Rehab Arcade

⏱️ Featured Button & Switch Demonstrations

• 9:27 – AbleNet Jelly Bean Switch

• 11:08 – Duo Switch

• 12:11 – Wider Scale 4-Button Switch

• 13:27 – Foot Switch

• 14:45 – LipSync Sip-and-Puff Control System

In this episode of OT Unleashed: Student Takeover, Katie and Dr. Erik Johnson explore the history and evolution of adaptive gaming controllers, tracing the journey from early adaptations and therapist-built solutions to today’s inclusive, mainstream designs. They discuss how early gaming systems created significant barriers for individuals with physical disabilities, requiring creativity, technical skill, and extensive customization just to participate. The conversation highlights the cultural and advocacy shifts that reframed gaming as a meaningful leisure occupation rather than just a therapy tool, leading to a major turning point with the 2018 release of the Xbox Adaptive Controller. They also examine newer innovations such as the Xbox Adaptive Joystick, Access Controller for PlayStation 5, HORI Flex Controller, the Nhuad Controller, and the Proteus Controller, highlighting how collaboration between gamers with disabilities, occupational therapists, and industry leaders has transformed access to gaming. From increased independence and social participation to identity development and quality of life outcomes, this episode underscores how adaptive controllers are no longer niche assistive devices but powerful tools that support autonomy, inclusion, and meaningful engagement in gaming.

Xbox Adaptive Controller (XAC)

• Setup Tutorial: https://youtu.be/-dHsgPQr89Y?si=dF2EgJZFYJwUU-II

• Purchase: Buy Xbox Adaptive Controller – Buy Xbox Adaptive Controller - Microsoft Store

• Xbox Design Lab 3D Printing Guide– Adaptive thumbstick toppers | Xbox

PlayStation Access Controller

• Setup Guide: PlayStation Access Controller – PlayStation Access Controller: Setup

• Purchase: Access Controller– Access controller | A customizable, adaptive controller kit for PS5 | PlayStation (US)

Hori Flex Controller (Nintendo Switch)

• Overview & Setup: Hori Flex Controller – Hori Flex Controller: Overview

• Purchase: Hori Flex Controller – Hori Flex Controller – The AbleGamers Charity Shop

Additional Adaptive Controller Options

• Nhuad Controller (Single-Arm Video Game Controllers): Nhuad Controllers | Single Arm Video Game Controllers

• ByoWave Proteus Controller: ByoWave

Additional Resources:
For more information about adaptive gaming technology and inclusive design, visit each manufacturer’s official website for the most up-to-date specifications and Adaptive Controllers — The Rehab Arcade

In this episode of OT Unleashed Student Takeover, Katie and Erik explore how built-in accessibility features are transforming modern gaming into a more inclusive space for players with motor, cognitive, visual, sensory, and hearing differences. Through an occupational therapy lens, they discuss how motor control impacts gameplay, highlight cognitive supports like navigation aids and adjustable difficulty in various titles. They also review sensory and visual accessibility tools available on major consoles, along with captioning innovations that enhance the experience for players with hearing impairments. Tune in to learn how thoughtful game design promotes meaningful participation, engagement, and empowerment for all gamers.