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Controller adapted to help with lack of fine motor skills?
CoolHand:
Hey everybody, I am really glad I found this place. I would really like to get back in to gaming. I haven't played a console game since my accident in '04. I was hoping to get some information about a controller that will be easy for me to use.
My injury left me with some paralysis in my hands that limits my fine motor function. But I have good function in my arms and wrists. I've seen some of the controllers like the HORI Fighting Stick and the Pelican model, but the joysticks on these controllers do not support analog. Am I correct on that? It's basically digital, like a D-pad? If that's true, that really limits the number of games it would be compatible with.
Does anyone know of any controllers similar in style and setup to those I mentioned that do support analog controls?
You guys are the best. Thanks for any info you can give me.
Akuma:
First, I think you need to tell everyone what system you want to play on (pc or console (which console in detail) ) and perhaps also which games you want to play, to get an idea of what the button layout should look like. After that, the ideas about what you want/ need and how to create it might just flow : )
BobA:
There is an 11 page thread about options for disabled gamers that may give you some ideas.
Link
CoolHand:
Sure...
I'm more of a fan of the Playstation brand. I don't have a PS3, but if I find a suitable controller, I plan to get one. I still have the PS2 in the basement.
I'm mostly into the sports genre games like Madden, NCAA Football, and Tiger Woods. But a few of the other games such as Oblivion and Grand Theft Auto would be on my list as well. Would the button setup be wildly different when designing a controller for these different genres?
I really think a setup like that on the HORI or Pelican stick would work for me. Buttons about that size would be okay. I would just hit them with first knuckle of my pinkie. I was just concerned about the lack of an analog stick on those controllers. Is it possible to just swap something like a Happs analog stick on to one of those controllers rather than building one completely from scratch?
As for the actual analog stick handle, I have a couple of ideas. I was thinking maybe something resembling a sword handle with the enclosed guard to give me some stability when switching directions. That would be easier to grip than a typical ball-handled joystick...but if it comes down to it, I could make due with whatever.
...
Ok, I just read through that other thread Bob supplied. That sucks that the guy flaked after all the hard work that was put in. I assure you all that will not happen with me.
I don't believe I need a modification as complicated as what he had either. I would prefer something smaller like the HORI or the Pelican that I could set in my lap. At college, dorm space is a bit limited. ;D
MrMojoZ:
Don't most of the games you mentioned work off digital controls?