Inclusive's Hoop Stars is a hit at AbleGames
Hoop Stars, a simple, switch accessible basketball game from Inclusive Technology, played a starring role in AbleGames, an event where children with significant disabilities can play video games, compete, and have fun.
Hoop Stars is from HelpKidzLearn, a free website from Inclusive which aims to put fun, accessible activities within reach of children with special needs.
The first annual AbleGames took place at Assistive Technology Partners in Denver, Colorado.
It featured a wide range of games including a specially adapted Wii Fit board, switch adapted arcade games, lots of activity software and a range of access methods to meet different needs.
Gavin Philips of Assistive Technology Partners said: "Hoop Stars ended up playing a big part in AbleGames, as it was our 'competition' game in the afternoon.
We had five computers running it at the same time, with two kids playing against each other on each computer, and swarms of parents, siblings, therapists, volunteers, etc. watching and cheering for them.
They rotated around and got to play with different kids, and in general had a fantastic time.
We even had a retired NBA player from the Denver Nuggets come play Hoop Stars with them!"
Hoop Stars also features in Switch Skills Champions, to be launched in November 2009 by Inclusive Technology.
The software also features additional sports that are included in the Olympics or Paralympics - great for the run-up to 2012.
The games are ideal for one or two players, each using a single switch, so it is useful for developing turn-taking skills.
It includes basketball, volleyball, boccia, ice hockey or hurdles plus a simple 'training' activity for early learners.
The difficulty level can be changed for each player.
With thanks to Gavin Philips of Assistive Technology Partners, under the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver, CO, U.S.A.