Open Drive, a groundbreaking racing game for mobile devices, has recently launched in early access on Android. Developed by SpecialEffect, a charitable organization dedicated to helping physically disabled gamers access video games, the project was co-created with Sun & Moon Studios. This game isn’t just another racing title—it’s a testament to inclusivity and innovation in gaming.
What Makes Open Drive Unique?
At its core, Open Drive is designed to adapt to every player’s needs. Whether you prefer touch controls, keyboard and mouse, switch access, or a traditional controller, the game supports multiple input methods to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience. For players relying on alternative inputs such as eye gaze technology, the game offers compatibility with compatible eye-tracking cameras, allowing steering simply by looking left or right. This feature stands out as a significant advancement in accessibility, opening doors for gamers with physical disabilities who typically face barriers when playing touch or gamepad-only titles.
The eye control functionality works seamlessly across all four open-world environments: Stunt, Speed, Snow, and Meadow. Gameplay flexibility is key here—you can leisurely cruise through the world, collecting orbs and exploring at your own pace. Alternatively, you can push yourself to achieve high scores by performing daring stunts and jumps with vehicles like the Roadster, Trickster, or Speedster. The speed settings are adjustable, giving you full control over the intensity of your ride.
Check out the early access announcement trailers below to get a taste of what Open Drive has to offer:
How Does Open Drive Work?
The game automatically detects your chosen control method and adjusts accordingly. Switch Access on Android is fully integrated, ensuring seamless navigation for users with disabilities. Each input method comes with its own tailored setup options. For touch controls, players can choose between 'Precise' and 'Classic' modes, where steering is achieved either by tapping directly or via directional taps. Similarly, Switch Access, mouse, keyboard, and Android-compatible controllers each have their distinct configurations to optimize gameplay.
Currently available in early access on Android, Open Drive does not yet include the full eye control functionality. However, the final version launching later this summer will offer this feature along with other updates. For now, interested players can download the game from the Google Play Store to explore its potential.
For more gaming insights, don’t miss our coverage of No Man’s Sky-inspired RPG shooter Auroria: A Playful Journey on Android.
