At the CES last January, PlayStation announced the next step in making games more accessible. It’s about Project Leonardo per PlayStation 5. Built with input from accessibility experts, community members and game developers, Project Leonardo is the code name for a highly customizable and accessible “out of the box” controller kit to help many users with disabilities play easier, more comfortably and for longer.
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Project Leonardo for PlayStation 5 to meet everyone
In collaboration with accessibility experts and outstanding organizations such as AbleGamers, SpecialEffect and Stack Up, PlayStation has designed a configurable controller that integrates seamlessly with many third-party accessibility accessories and the PS5 console, opening up new gaming possibilities .
The controller was designed to deal with challenges common problems experienced by many gamers with limited motor control, including difficulty holding a controller for long periods, accurately pressing small groups of keys or triggers, or optimally positioning thumbs and fingers on a standard controller.
Project Leonardo for PlayStation 5, customizable gaming experience
Hardware customizations. Project Leonardo for PS5 offers players the ability to tailor their gaming experience. It features a solid set of interchangeable components, including a variety of analog thumbstick caps and buttons in different shapes and sizes.
Players can use these components to create a variety of control layouts. Additionally, the distance of the analog stick from the gamepad can be adjusted according to the player’s preference. These components allow players to adopt a configuration appropriate to their strength, mobility and specific physical needs.
Software customizations. Players have a range of options to customize their PS5 console gaming experience with Project Leonardo:
- Key mapping
- Controller keys can be programmed for any supported function, and multiple keys can be set for the same function. Conversely, players can set two functions (such as “R2” + “L2”) on the same key.
- Control profiles
- Gamers can memorize programmed key settings by creating control profiles and easily switch between them by pressing the profile key.
- Up to three control profiles can be stored and accessed at any time from the PS5 console.
Compatibility with other accessibility devices and accessories
Project Leonardo can be used as a controller independent o Together to other Project Leonardo or DualSense wireless controllers. Up to two Project Leonardo controllers and one DualSense wireless controller can be used simultaneously as a single virtual controller, allowing players to combine devices to suit their particular gaming needs or to play collaboratively with others.
Project Leonardo is expandable via quattro 3.5 mm AUX port that support a variety of external switches and third-party accessibility accessories. This allows users to integrate specific switches, analog sticks or keys with the Project Leonardo controller. External accessories can be dynamically connected or disconnected and each of them can be configured like any other button.
Versatile and adaptable design
Il symmetrical and fractional design by Project Leonardo allows players to reposition the analog sticks near or far, according to their needs. The controller is flat and you don’t need to hold it in your hand. This way players can place it on the table top or on the shelf of a wheelchair. In addition, it can be easily attached to supports AMPS oh tripod and can be rotated 360 degrees for more comfortable use. Players can also program the “north” orientation of the analog sticks to match their desired orientation.