Sony used CES 2023 to unveil a new PS5 controller aimed at opening up access to games for people with disabilities.
It's called Project Leonardo, and was designed with the help of AbleGamers, SpecialEffect, and Stack Up. The end result is a highly configurable controller that also works with existing third-party accessibility accessories (through four 3.5mm AUX ports) and should allow gamers to play more comfortably and for longer.
Sony describes the Leonardo controller as a "canvas for gamers" because it's constructed from a kit of swappable components. The distance of the analog sticks can be changed, there are different shapes and sizes of buttons, and configurations can be constructed to suit "strength, range of motion, and particular physical needs."
On the software side, any available function can be mapped to a specific button, or two functions mapped to the same button. Up to three different control profiles can be created and stored on the PS5, with switching between them handled by a single button press.
Sony allows up to two Leonardo controllers and a DualSense controller to be used together, or any combination of those to create a comfortable play experience. The controller is designed to lay flat and doesn't need to be held, but is also compatible with AMPS mounts and tripods.
Project Leonardo is still in development and Sony is currently accepting feedback from select groups to ensure any bugs are worked out before the final controller is offered for sale. The design is certainly eye-catching, and quite the contrast to Microsoft's Xbox adaptive controller revealed back in 2018.