Microsoft's #GamingForEveryone Commercial
Have you ever seen Microsoft's adaptive Xbox controllers? I have tracked its release ever since I learned the disability community worked WITH Microsoft designers to develop the controller. That is what we hope happens every time someone creates a product. Let's always include the disability community in the building process. We especially need to stop designing FOR the disability community.
We shared some of Jordan's gaming challenges in the past when Microsoft announced new Xbox avatars that include prosthetics. She's wanted additional settings to really make it easier to play, especially back in the day when we used the Xbox Kinect. It was just another experience that taught Jordan and so many other kids why more inclusive design is needed in this world.
Our BOOSTxBJR workshops focus on teaching kids how to use their disability perspective to design something they think would be fun or helpful. Because of our work, I couldn't say no when we had a chance to participate in a new Microsoft commercial that you'll see during the big football game this weekend. Check out the extended version (Jordan is in the shorter version, Jen is not):
Jordan had a lot of fun shooting the commercial. We even let Cameron watch the shoot. He's the huge gamer of the house and he's also interested in video production. Everyone got to learn during this experience!
It's an honor to participate in this campaign. It's even more exciting to have a better understanding of how the adaptive controller works. You can customize how the controller works based on the game you're playing. Jordan has different settings for Fortnite and Rocket League. The more she tinkers with it, the easier it is to use. But even better? I think we see a chance to use one of our BOOSTxBJR workshops as a chance for kids to find new ways to hack the controller and find new ways to use it! Why not? It's THAT adaptive. We are so very excited.
