Sony has patented a touchscreen PlayStation controller that allows players to choose their own button layout

Originally submitted in February 2013 but granted approval last week, the patent outlines “designs and methods for a game controller.”

According to the documentation and accompanying illustrations, the controller features an expansive touchscreen occupying most of its upper surface, replacing traditional physical buttons.

The concept allows players to personalize the placement of D-Pads, analog sticks, or action buttons to match their preferences, accessibility requirements, or optimize for specific titles.

Users can apparently adjust button sizes or eliminate certain inputs entirely depending on the game.

Theoretically, during a straightforward platformer, players could replace all controls with one oversized jump button. Alternatively, for titles requiring only directional input or one analog stick, they could remove unnecessary elements and enlarge the remaining control.

“Often [conventional] controllers adhere to a similar control interface of having a directional pad on one side of the controller and buttons on the other side of the controller,” the patent states.

“One of the drawbacks of existing designs may be the fixed configuration. By way of example, a fixed layout may be too small, or too large, for a user. Similarly, a fixed layout may not be comfortable to a user. Manufacturers typically do not veer from layout or controller size to reduce cost. As result, controllers may include button configurations for hand sizes that do not accommodate all players.

“There exists a desire for game controllers to allow for different configurations, and accommodate hand sizes without having to customize or manufacture controller size.”

The design addresses situations where preset configurations prove uncomfortable by enabling button repositioning to better match hand placement.

“Another drawback of conventional controllers may be the fixed nature of input controls. For example, a controller only has enough space to include a directional pad and joystick, and each element is usually located in a different location.

“Due to size of physical control elements, game controls may be limited. In addition, inclusion of controls can increase controller size. There exists a need and a desire to allow for improvements and modifications to game controllers.”

One concern involves parallels to the Turbo Touch 360, a third-party peripheral from the 8-bit and 16-bit era. That device substituted the D-Pad with a touchpad to minimize thumb strain but caused unintended character movement when thumbs naturally rested on the surface.

Sony’s documentation indicates the touchscreen would incorporate pressure and heat detection to “detect condition of the input surface.” Whether these sensors operate as simple binary switches or possess graduated sensitivity remains unclear, though the latter could potentially distinguish between resting and active thumb pressure.

As always, securing a patent doesn’t guarantee the concept will materialize as an actual commercial product.