Help with Console Selection for Autistic Son

[JonathanEngr]

Hi, everyone. I have a 14 year-old son who is autistic, and he enjoys playing games. He's been playing Skyrim on my PC for years and loves it. He doesn't read very well, and he has difficulty navigating menus. As a result, on games like Skyrim I put it in "God" mode so he isn't constantly killed all of the time.

I'm looking for a console with games that can be controlled fairly simply, and also has the ability to change the difficulty level of games so that he isn't easily frustrated. My daughter would love to have a PS4, but I want to make sure the PS4 is something that he can enjoy, as well. Any input would be greatly appreciated!

 

[quikah]

I think it will depend more on the game than the console itself. You will need to evaluate each game to see if he could play it or not.

One thing Xbox has which could be helpful is co-pilot, you basically use two controllers as one, so you can assist someone who has difficulty in a game. Whether that would be helpful for him would be something you will need to evaluate. Not sure PS4 has anything similar.

 

[SteveGrabowski]

I don't know that you'll be able to get god mode kind of cheats on PS4 games like you can on PC. Might be tough for him to play PS4.

 

[JonathanEngr]

Thanks for the responses!

 

[Aikouka]

I know Nintendo has been adding in some player assists into some games... most notably Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The game has a mode that will keep you on the track and such, which can be a boon for players with poor motor function. (My little brother has issues with using his left hand.)

But overall, I agree with @quikah that it will depend on the game. Albeit, it may be worth noting that Microsoft and Sony are allowing mods on their consoles now (Microsoft seems more open to it though). That may be helpful if the game has mods that can provide an easier playthrough.