One-handed keyboard concept is an inclusive tool for gamers with disabilities

The proliferation of video games has proven that this form of entertainment transcends stereotypical age and gender boundaries. Everyone can play and enjoy games, whether on their computers or on their phones. The problem is that most of these games presume that people have full control over their bodies, particularly their hands.

Accessibility controls do exist, though primarily for the two major console platforms. PC gamers, especially those used to keyboards and mice, are unfortunately left to fend for themselves. This concept design tries to level the playing field, no pun intended, with an input device primarily catering to PC gamers with certain physical handicaps. But like any accessible design, it could even benefit “normal” players as well.

Designer: Shivangee Tilak

It’s definitely encouraging to see a lot of focus being paid to gamer accessibility, but most of the narratives revolve around people with complete hand disabilities. Of course, these can benefit all gamers but designs that cater to temporarily disabled people are rarely covered. IGI, or the Inclusive Gaming Interface, is a design concept that does exactly that, targeting gamers with temporary arm injuries, mild arthritis, stroke survivors, or even those with cerebral palsy. And, yes, it works for non-disabled gamers as well.

The shape of the IGI is probably familiar to PC gamers, taking the form of a one-handed keyboard used by the “pros.” They say the devil is in the details, and that’s definitely the case here. Every aspect of this keyboard is not only made with ergonomics and accessibility in mind but also to allow the customization of that experience to fit the needs of the user.

For example, the height of the keys increases as the row moves further away, making them easier to reach without overstretching, and these can be adjusted using a pin on the side of the keyboard. The thumb unit that has a few shortcut buttons can actually be removed and switched to either side of the device, making it an ambidextrous and modular design. There are also detachable palm and wrist cushions, though some will probably question the ergonomics of those designs.

Almost everything about the IGI keyboard is customizable thanks to its modular design and programmable parts. That’s something not only convenient for regular gamers but also critical for those with special needs. Best of all, you can also theoretically mix and match module designs, though the base unit will have a fixed theme. It’s definitely an interesting concept that doesn’t depart too much from convention, though its actual benefits have yet to be tested in the real world.