Hexa Pinball present
the pinball machine
for disabled people
Making play an asset
for inclusion
As a committed company, Hexa Pinball is constantly working to include people.
This includes our commitment to the rehabilitation of prisoners, in partnership with ATIGIP.
As part of this inclusive approach, Hexa Pinball has worked in collaboration with associations to create the first mass-produced pinball machine for the disabled.
This innovative pinball machine has been designed to meet the specific needs of players with motor disabilities.
Thanks to ergonomic adjustments, simplified controls and adapted functionalities, this pinball machine will enable everyone to have fun and enjoy the immersive gaming experience.
A new interface
On its Space Hunt model, Hexa Pinball has developed a specific control interface positioned on the pinball door.
4 outputs in 3.5 mm mono jack format are positioned on the door.
They control the Start button, the bead ejector and the two beaters.
Gamers can use existing products as control consoles, such as the gaming kit marketed by Logitech, which offers numerous possibilities for adapting to all kinds of disabilities.
An adaptation of the game
A new version of the game has been developed by the Hexa Pinball team to make the game easier to play, while retaining the same fun.
The set remains the much-loved Space Hunt.
A world first
This creation is the first of its kind worldwide for a mass-produced pinball machine.
In addition to its innovative technical features, it embodies a new approach to game design, placing accessibility and user experience at the heart of development.
Teamwork
Hexa Pinball worked closely with its associative partners to develop this inclusive project.
The associations Lights in the Eyeswhich works to improve conditions for patients in public establishments in Alsace, and Retroplay44, which works all year round through its operations RetroSmile who work with hospitalized children and adults suffering from mental disabilities in Loire-Atlantique, have contributed their expertise to the design of a pinball machine accessible to a wide and varied audience.
For its part, theAPF France handicap helped identify specific needs and validate the product’s various functionalities.
“This pinball machine is much more than a game, it’s a symbol of our commitment to a more inclusive society, where everyone can take part in the fun and sharing,” comments Christophe André, co-founder ofHexa Pinball.
“It marks an important step towards greater accessibility and inclusion in the world of leisure activities,” says Sébastien Vermandel, head of monitoring and consultancy at TechLab APF France handicap.
“We hope it will inspire other initiatives in the entertainment industry and beyond,” adds Benoit Petit-Demoulière, co-founder of the association. Lights in the Eyes.
A preview at Retroplay 2024
An official presentation of the pinball machine is planned for the Retroplay festival, to be held on October 19 and 20, 2024 in Le Gâvre (44).
This event will provide an opportunity to discover the game and discuss accessibility issues in the world of entertainment.
Partner associations
Lights in the Eyes
Since 2018, volunteer enthusiasts have been working to improve conditions for patients in public services in Alsace.
To do so, they install and maintain free-play pinball machines and table soccer tables in hospitals and nursing homes.
These convivial spaces are firmly rooted in the services they provide, creating social links, a better way of life and a sense of joy.
Caregivers, families and patients are unanimous about the benefits of this approach, which relies entirely on donations from individuals and companies.
All pathologies are targeted, currently oncology, psychiatry and mental disability.
This project aims to improve accessibility and extend the range of possible areas.
Retrosmile
The RetroSmile operations carried out by our Retroplay44 association aim to brighten up everyday life, foster social ties and help vulnerable children and adults maintain their independence.
Whether hospitalized or disabled, they may suffer from a degree of isolation induced by their physical or psychological condition.
We make pinball machines and arcade terminals available free of charge to provide a break from the hustle and bustle.
Bringing joy to children and adults hospitalized or residing in care facilities, to their parents and loved ones, and also to professionals.
APF France handicap
APF France handicap is an association for people with disabilities, bringing them, their families and able-bodied people together in solidarity.
For 90 years, it has been committed to defending the rights of disabled people and their families, and fighting discrimination and prejudice against them.
It supports 50,000 people on a daily basis in all areas of life (accessibility, education, employment, health, etc.), throughout France.
