Single-handed controllers for multiple systems?

[Pantechnicon]

Here's the deal: My daughter has a paralyzed right hand but a fully-functional left one. I'm thinking I'd like to build her a couple of custom controllers for some of the systems we have around here (she's only 3 1/2, but you can't start thinking about these things too soon). Does anybody know of a site with suggestions on doing something along these lines? Pinouts and the like are easy. I'm wondering about button and thumbstick layouts, etc. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[tholly]

here is a link to get you started:

http://www.lik-sang.com/news.php?artc=3375

[ManekiNeko]

In an issue of Tips and Tricks, the editors wrote a story about a man called the "one handed terror of Tucson" who learned to play video games, and learned to play them really well, with just one hand. If you make some kind of arcade panel, there's a chance that she could adapt to it with some practice.

I seem to recall ASCII releasing a Super NES joypad specifically designed for one hand. The button layout was more appropriate for RPGs than games in other genres, however. Also, there were a fairly large number of 2600 joysticks with a button on the top of the stick. Some even had suction cups on the bottom, making it quite easy to play with one hand.

JR

[Pantechnicon]

I seem to recall ASCII releasing a Super NES joypad specifically designed for one hand. The button layout was more appropriate for RPGs than games in other genres, however. Also, there were a fairly large number of 2600 joysticks with a button on the top of the stick. Some even had suction cups on the bottom, making it quite easy to play with one hand.

JR

Hm. You're right. I've got a few of those sticks around in the garage. I'll have to see what she can do with one.

The 2600 is probably going to be the first one I try building something like this for, since it's pretty strightforward wiring. I'm envisioning something with a d-pad, a single fire button and maybe a thumb-sized dial to use as a paddle. It would be like a Coleco Gemini controller but all with the single handed user in mind.


here is a link to get you started:

http://www.lik-sang.com/news.php?artc=3375

Thanks. That's pretty nice. I imagine I'll move up to something like this after a few simple controllers are under the belt first.

[davidleeroth]

There's a couple of companies who specialize in videogame controllers and other equipment for the physically impaired.
I'm sure there's an organization, too.
You should check them for ideas at least.

Ascii has made at least two one-handed controllers for the PlayStation and with adapters they can be used in pretty much every console.

[MarioAllStar2600]

Atari 2600 has a handfull of controllers for 1 handed playing. I actually have a spare if your intrested. PM me.