TactivoPlay
About The TactivoPlay
This is a handheld accessible console system with audio based games that are played by pressing the five tactile buttons.
This console will include a mix of game genres, including:
- Card Games
- Interactive Adventures
- Memory Challenges
- Racing Games
- Music Taping Games
- Shooters
- Cooking & Restaurant Games
- Magic Themed
- Various Quizzes on a Range Of Topics
Current Games For Beta Testing:
- Hi-Low Card
- Bug Basher
- Sequence Memory Game
- Music Based Reaction Game
About The Games
All games are offline games played on the console.
Games will use up to 5 buttons (subject to beta feedback).
Buttons will have different uses, depending on the game.
Why This Matters
Many games are still difficult to access without sight, especially on handheld devices. TactivoPlay is being designed from the ground up around touch and audio, so players can enjoy games through sound, memory, timing, and tactile input rather than a screen.
- Many games rely heavily on screens and visual menus.
- Accessible gaming hardware is still limited.
- TactivoPlay is built around touch and sound from the start.
- It aims to make gaming more direct, portable, and inclusive.
TactivoPlay is a screen-free handheld games console designed for blind and visually impaired players.
It uses five tactile buttons, audio feedback, and simple physical controls to make games easy to learn and enjoyable to play anywhere.
How It Works
- Insert SD card
- Power on
- Hear spoken menus or sound cues
- Use the five tactile buttons to choose, react, remember, or explore
- Play entirely by audio
Designed Around Touch
The five-button layout is intentionally simple. Players can learn the controls by feel, build confidence quickly, and move between games without needing to relearn a complex controller.
Why TactivoPlay Is Different
- Designed for non-visual play
- Tactile button layout for easier orientation
- Audio instructions and feedback
- Portable handheld format
- Simple, focused controls
- Built for accessible fun rather than adapted after the fact
The Games
Each game comes on its own SD card. Just plug it in and start the console. The console will then confirm which game is inserted.
The games start with a brief introduction on what the aim of the game is, and a summary of the controls.
Depending on the game, it will automatically save your progress to the card, allowing you to continue your game at any time.
FAQ:
Does it need a screen?
No, all games are audio based.
Does it use headphones?
The console has a built-in speaker, but also includes a headphone jack.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, all games and content are suitable for all ages.
Current Stage - Beta Testing
I am currently designing the look and feel of the console, along with some initial games for testing (currently runs on Windows). I am looking for game testers willing to provide feedback, and willing to answer a short survey approximately every two weeks.
Who I’m looking for
- Blind or visually impaired players
- Parents, carers, teachers, and accessibility testers
- People happy to try early builds
- People willing to give simple feedback by email
Development Roadmap
April to May 2026
Currently working with beta testers to get information on the best physical design for the console to make it as accessible as possible.
June to July 2026
Next stage is to work with additional programmers to make a prototype that automatically loads a game when inserted, ensure internal and external buttons are registering correctly.
August 2026
Next stage will be to adpapt the case design to ensure all hardware fits as intended.
Septemper 2026
I will then 3D print a few test models, add the hardware, then send out a few to my beta testers for final testing and feedback.
October 2026
Make final changes to the hardware and software. Start production of the console.
Work on adapting / creating games for the console.
3D printing cases (or perhaps other methods depending on number of backers).
Purchasing Raspberry Pi units, SD and Micro SD cards for storing game system and games. Sourcing buttons, and components.
Putting the consoles together, and testing them.
November 2026
Start sending out consoles to my backers.
Possible Issues
Over the years I have created hundreds of mini games for PC, tablets and phones (including a collection of over 50 accessible one button controlled games ). Additionally I have authored several Game Programming Books with a major International Publisher.
The main risks for this project are:
Not enough backers to make this project viable - if this happens all backers will be refunded.
Project milestones taking longer than expected - if this happens the delivery date will need to be adjusted.
Games need further development to work with the console - this is not a huge issue and will only add a few extra days of programming to fix any issues.
Quality
This insides of the console use well known components (Raspberry Pi, branded SD cards).
The appearance of the case may vary a little depending on production methods, which will be based on how many backers. Either way, the case will be strong, well produced and designed to last.
Delivery
Delivery is expected to take place November.
Physical consoles will be posted in custom printed boxed, with Styrofoam padding to keep it safe during its journey. Additionally this will be inside a a bubble wrap envelope.
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