Many of us are lucky enough to not have to worry about how the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller will fit into our hands and how it will function. However, for some disabled gamers, this is a very real problem. After finding ways to fully take advantage of the current PlayStation 4 pad, despite their cognitive issues, the community is concerned over Sony's decision to not allow the controller to work with next-gen PS5 games.

As highlighted by website Can I Play That, disabled gamers have come up with workarounds and utilised third-party peripherals to enjoy their favourite PS4 games, but that technology is no longer compatible with the next console from Sony. The community feels like it's back to square one again, something it experienced during the transition from PlayStation 3 to PS4. Taking to Twitter, Joe Rivera said: "Because of my disability, A PS4 controller is the ONLY controller that I can hold comfortably enough to fully enjoy video games. Right now, Idk if I’ll be able to play a PS5 game." He then goes on to explain that he currently uses the Xbox One Adaptive Controller connected to a DualShock 4 with extra buttons on the back to play games. That setup won't work on PS5 at launch.

Meanwhile, accessibility consultant Vivek Gohil echoed the sentiment with the following statement on Twitter: "This is the worst news ever, it's the PS4 nightmare again. Thanks, @PlayStation for ruining next-gen for me. Controller #Accessibility is vital."

PlayStation's accessibility specialist, Mark Friend, has commented on the matter and he doesn't seem best pleased about the news either. On Twitter, he said: "Haven't been looking forward to this announcement. Always doing what I can behind the scenes though."

So, while disabled gamers will continue to be able to use the PS4 controller on PS5 when playing backwards compatible titles, the community is unsure whether or not it will be able to play the next wave of new experiences. Despite its similarities to the DualShock 4, the DualSense appears to be a completely different beast that will have its own flaws for people to overcome. Do you suffer from a disability and are worried about what Sony's decision means for you? Does the DualSense controller represent a roadblock in your excitement for PS5? Reach out to us in the comments below.

A first look at DualSense, PS5’s new wireless controller.

More details and images: https://t.co/SuaUVDkyvD pic.twitter.com/ot5R1u5hsz

— PlayStation (@PlayStation) April 7, 2020

Posted: Apr 11, 2020 4:57 pm
Last Updated: Sep 01, 2020 7:12 pm
Related Forum: PlayStation Forum