Shaquem Griffin tests new Xbox controller geared toward accessibility needs

Seattle Seahawks rookie linebacker Shaquem Griffin spent part of this week in Bellevue, Wash. testing Microsoft's new Adaptive Controller, according to ESPN's Brady Henderson.

The Xbox controller is designed for gamers who have accessibility needs, making Griffin an ideal spokesperson. The rookie fifth-rounder was born with amniotic band syndrome and had his left hand amputated at age 4.

Griffin, an avid gamer, spent Thursday evening playing Madden with a young Seahawks fan who also has accessibility needs using the new Adaptive Controller. Its main features are Bluetooth-connected pedals, allowing users to press buttons with their feet which would be otherwise difficult to hit.

"Me missing one hand, the left side of the controller, like the L-T, the L-B, the triggers and stuff, usually when I'm playing a game, it's kind of hard to get to that trigger," Griffin said. "So as I'm playing, I don't have to use this L-T button no more. I can use the pedals. So if I'm playing a game and I need to use the L-T button, I use my foot to press it and I'll still be able to move around with everything else that I have.

"I don't have to press it on my leg or anything. I just move around, pedal, and keep moving. I don't have to slow down and have to look and make sure I'm pressing a button."

Margie Strite, a community development specialist with Microsoft, said the controller will be available for sale later this year.

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