How Sony’s PlayStation Access makes its flagship console friendlier to more players

There has long been an imbalance in the relationship between videogame controllers and the people who use them, with players having to adjust to the hardware rather than the other way around. Sony’s PlayStation Access controller, launched in December at £80, tackles the imbalance head-on.

The PS5 hardware is Sony’s first dedicated peripheral with inclusivity and accessibility designed into its DNA. While there can never be a single silverbullet accessibility controller that meets the specific needs of all players, the PlayStation Access approach is a success, with a distinct design, excellent software, a multifaceted kit-like build, and community consultation in its development process.

The hardware is built around two circles: a large unit that houses nine main buttons (eight surrounding a central button), four industry-standard 3.5mm ports for other specialist devices, and a USB-C port; and a smaller unit housing a joystick. Arranged on one plane to increase usability, it can be easily mounted onto surfaces such as wheelchair trays.