Accessibility in video games is something that is still not extremely common to witness in major AAA blockbusters. However, certain manufacturers have taken the responsibility to change this norm going forward, in order to make more people enjoy their favorite titles. Microsoft and Xbox have been trying to do exactly that since the last few years, with a line of unique products that can solve everyday problems.
One incident, dating back to 2020, certainly proves this point by showing that Microsoft really cares about ‘all the gamers’. This story involves the company’s uniquely designed controller that eventually helped a father to bring a smile to his daughter’s face in a priceless moment.
This is how Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller helped Ava to play Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
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For anyone who’s not aware of the product, it’s something that allows all kinds of setups in order to help players, even those with disabilities, to embrace gaming. It’s not only compatible with Microsoft’s exclusive machines but other consoles too. Proving its worth, the controller once turned out to be a boon for Rory Steel, head of Digital Jersey Academy, who utilized it in a way that enabled him to do something special for his daughter.
With the help of Xbox Adaptive Controller, Rory was able to give his daughter, Ava, a one-of-its-kind custom controller. Using the latter, she was able to experience the immersive open-world of her beloved Nintendo title The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Finished! Ava gives my homemade #accessibility controller V1.0 the thumbs up. She can play @Nintendo #BreathoftheWild on her #switch like her friends now. All thanks to @Microsoft 🙌 #adaptiveController #XAC @brycej @ArranDyslexia @shanselman pic.twitter.com/dOhGnUFZa0
— Rory Steel (@JerseyITGuy) January 19, 2020
The video, above, shows Ava suffering from several motor neuron issues. However, she was still able to play Zelda like a normal gamer, thanks to the customized setup built by her father. After a little bit of tweaks and improvisations, he was able to make the Nintendo Switch work with the Xbox controller.
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As one can clearly see, the result was nothing less than heartwarming. Ava was overwhelmed by the feeling of being able to explore Hyrule – all by herself.
Rory’s efforts are receiving praises even in 2023 as Ava gets a special mention from Pokimane
Despite being more than three years old, this unforgettable story is still making waves. One can say that after considering a special mention by none other than popular Twitch streamer and gamer Pokimane. Recently, she took to Instagram to share this incident on her story while mentioning that she was very-very happy after watching Ava exploring the world of Zelda.
Pokimane came across the inspiring tale while noticing it on Instagram. It looks like the video made her quite emotional. Probably that’s the reason why she eventually shared it as well to spread positive vibes.
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Moreover, she even ended up posting a tweet in which she emphasized on the importance of accessibility. Poki urged all the streamers to use tools that can help even those people to enjoy their content who are deaf or can’t hear properly.
downloaded this and it works FLAWLESSLY
i recommend all streamers get it so their streams are more accessible to those that are deaf or hard of hearing 🫶🏻 https://t.co/3DDiHMpPQR
— pokimane (@pokimanelol) July 19, 2023
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Although she didn’t reveal it, it seems like her tweet was somehow inspired by Ava’s Zelda story about her father using Microsoft’s controller that focused on accessibility. What are your thoughts on this amazing incident? Let us know in the comments.
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