'Access Methods' are the ways in which you can control a computer or games console. There are a huge number of alternative devices which help to perform the functions of the mouse and keyboard. Choosing the best way of controlling the computer is not always easy and it may be beneficial to go to a specialist centre, such as The ACE Centre, for an assessment. This could provide useful information on how best to control a computer for general work, communication - and games!
You can find a showcase of accessible gaming equipment within the OneSwitch.org.uk Accessible Gaming Shop and from our Links section.
These games require control of the 'pointer' on the screen. The pointer can be controlled by a variety of devices, including an ordinary mouse.
Keyboard ONLY
To play these games you need to be able to use a keyboard. This need not be an ordinary keyboard, however, and there are many kinds of special keyboards that can be used as alternatives.
To play these games you need to be able to use both a keyboard and a pointer. However, these don't necessarily have to be an ordinary mouse and keyboard. There are many kinds of special keyboards that can be used as an alternative by people with disabilities as well as many kinds of special pointer control devices.
Switches provide a simple way of controlling the computer and can emulate almost any keyboard or mouse command. You can use one or a number of switches, depending on your abilities.
There are a range of ordinary and modified GamePads and Joysticks available for the control of games.
This as a way of controlling a computer and games with your voice. There are a number of programs and utilities that can be used for voice control.
These games require the player to move their arms, legs or other parts of their body in order to control the computer. Sometimes the movements involved are very specific, while other games can be enjoyed by people who find controlled movement difficult.
GameOn Tip
It is worth searching for local suppliers of the equipment mentioned on this site, to save yourself any postage costs /delays involved in ordering equipment from wherever it may have been manufactured.
