Sony’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 presentation revealed the introduction of Project Leonardo, the latest accessibility controller kit for the PS5. The controller is specifically designed to enhance the gaming experience for players with disabilities, offering increased comfort and extended playtime. PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan highlighted the user-friendly nature of the kit, which includes a range of customizable parts and software options for the PS5. To ensure its effectiveness, the development process involves collaboration with accessibility experts and organizations like AbleGamers, SpecialEffect, and Stack Up. Currently, there is no information available regarding the release date or pricing for the PS5’s Project Leonardo.
According to PlayStation’s official blog post, Project Leonardo is specifically engineered to address the challenges faced by players with “limited motor control.” These challenges include difficulties in holding a controller for extended periods, finger placement, and accurate button pressing. The revolutionary controller kit replaces traditional buttons with two circular pads that lie flat, representing each half of a standard PS5 DualSense controller. These pads offer an expanded area of pressure points. Sony describes the controller kit as a “canvas for gamers” due to its high level of customization. The package includes a variety of analog stick caps, including one with a grippy texture, and buttons of different sizes and shapes. Additionally, users can adjust the distance between the stick and the gamepad.
Similar to the upcoming DualSense Edge controllers for the PS5, Project Leonardo features a button mapping function that enables users to assign multiple functions to a single button. Conversely, players can also map two functions (like ‘R2’ + ‘L2’) to a single button. Three profiles can be saved, making it easy to switch between different game types. For example, a first-person shooter may require lower camera sensitivity for improved accuracy compared to a third-person action game. With Project Leonardo, users can simply press the profile button to switch on the go, eliminating the need to navigate through settings.
Project Leonardo can be used in various configurations: in pairs, standalone, or connected to a PS5 DualSense controller. Its four 3.5mm AUX ports provide expanded functionality, allowing players to integrate external switches or third-party analog sticks. These connections can be dynamically connected or disconnected, and button mappings can be adjusted accordingly. Sony Interactive Entertainment Designer So Morimoto expressed the company’s intention to empower players to create their own configurations, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Sony’s dedication to accessibility in gaming is evident in its first-party games. Both The Last of Us Part II and God of War Ragnarök received recognition in the “Innovation in Accessibility” category at The Game Awards in 2020 and 2022, respectively.
Project Leonardo is currently under development, with no information available about its launch date or pricing.
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Eugen Boglaru is an AI aficionado covering the fascinating and rapidly advancing field of Artificial Intelligence. From machine learning breakthroughs to ethical considerations, Eugen provides readers with a deep dive into the world of AI, demystifying complex concepts and exploring the transformative impact of intelligent technologies.
