Gaming nowadays is more accessible than it has ever been, with everything from dedicated consoles to mobile devices allowing for hopeful players to get their fix. Still, developers remain eager to help break down barriers for those genuinely intrigued by their products, and this is done through a number of different means. However, a more recent example of this comes in the form of the newly announced partnership between Sony and third-party accessory manufacturer Hori for a new controlled being developed for PlayStation 4 players with smaller hands in mind.

Dubbed the Mini Wired Gamepad, this officially licensed product has been designed for kids that want to partake in some of the more suitable games on PS4. The remote itself is a rather adorable initiative by both companies, and it's set to arrive this holiday season in North America at a suggested retail price of $29.99 USD (MSRP) / $39.99 CAD (MSRP). This makes the kid-friendly remote a rather affordable option, but there are a few drawbacks that accompany the reduced cost.

ps4 mini wired controller hori image

As the name of the product and above images imply, the controller is wired (coming with a 10ft cable), but there are a few more alterations that consumers should know about. Since the remote is 40% smaller, many qualities of the DUALSHOCK 4 are missing, such as the standard controller's light bar, stereo headset jack, speaker, dual motors, and motion sensor. As a result, it's not compatible with all games, although Knack 2 comes recommended in the controller's retail listing.

Given that Sony has released Elite PlayStation 4 controllers in the past, seeing the firm pursue accessibility on the other end of its user base is an admirable initiative – if not above all a good business move.

Hori is also a company that's proven its worth with controllers in the past, with its Fight Stick for Nintendo Switch making waves upon its reveal. Hopefully more controllers of a similar nature emerge from other companies soon, because the easier it is for anyone to jump into gaming the better the medium is for everyone.

Source: PlayStation.Blog