Today, on Microsoft Stories, we shared some exciting news: Microsoft is partnering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to provide Xbox Adaptive Controller units to 22 initial VA rehab centers across the U.S.

For active duty military members, playing video games can help release stress, build camaraderie and offer comforting familiarity in foreign environments. For veterans returning from combat, gaming can reduce isolation, renew connections with fellow service members and provide therapeutic benefits.

While gaming is a popular activity among the military community, navigating a traditional controller can be difficult or impossible for injured veterans. The inability to game can mean the loss of connection to veterans’ military communities and to an activity that was a significant part of their lives during service.

This partnership aims to give veterans with limited mobility the opportunity to game again, get them more involved with their rehabilitation and increase social interaction.

Head on over to Microsoft Stories to read more about this game-changing partnership and read some stories from the veterans who are benefiting from the Xbox Adaptive Controller.