Voice Control Series: A Beginner’s Guide to Using Voice Controls for Gaming

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Screen shot of Minecraft being used with voice control

Please use the YouTube player controls to navigate through the series. A transcript for each video can be found on YouTube. 

This voice control series was made possible thanks to the knowledge and insight of the Voiced Gaming YouTube channel. 

In this voice control series we hope to consolidate the many years of experience in voice control by Voiced Gaming and ourselves into a beginner-friendly tutorial series. The tutorials in this series are aimed at being a helpful resource for new and intermediate voice control users. For more advanced techniques please consider visiting the Voiced Gaming YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/c/VoicedGaming

Some players with clear speaking voices may be considering the possibility of using voice controls as their access method. However, they may not necessarily know where to start. 

The SpecialEffect YouTube channel now hosts a voice control video series, consisting of 16 individual videos that aim to assist newcomers to voice controls. You should not need any prior experience or knowledge of voice controls in order to begin this series. 

The voice control series is split into several episodes, with some further broken up into smaller parts, with each episode focusing on a particular aspect of voice controls. 

Within this article you can find: 

Episodes

Episode 1 – Expectations & EquipmentEpisode 4 – Helpful Tips to Increase Quality
Episode 2 – Setting Up for PCEpisode 5 – How to Set Up & Use GAVPI
Episode 3 – Setting Up for ConsoleEpisode 6 – How to Set Up & Use VoiceAttack

Episode 1: Expectations & Equipment

In this episode we talk a new user through the equipment they will need to set up voice controls for both PC and console use. We also discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks of using voice as an input device. Hopefully this episode will aid a beginner in deciding if voice control may be suitable for them to try. 

Episode 2: Setting Up for PC

Episode 2 guides a beginner through the physical set-up of equipment needed to use voice controls on a PC. Please note, episode 2 focuses on explaining the setting up of equipment and software only and does not provide information on creating voice control profiles as this will be covered in episodes 5 & 6. Jump down to Download Links for relevant resources.

Episode 3: Setting Up for Console

Episode 3 guides a beginner through setting up voice controls for use on consoles via a PC. It is important to note that while some of the steps are the same as PC, voice control use on consoles requires additional equipment and software. The additional equipment needed is: 

  • 1 x Titan Two adapter – to connect the PC to the console and convert PC inputs into console inputs.
  • G-Tuner IV Software – to load and run the necessary profiles needed to set up the Titan Two.
  • 3 x Micro USB cables – to connect everything together.

Jump down to Download Links for relevant resources.

Episode 4: Tips for Using Voice Control

Episode 4 focuses on explaining some potentially helpful tips that may improve the quality of your voice control experience. For example, some tips include how to train your PC to recognise your speech, and what to do if your voice controls regularly mishear certain words. 

Episode 5: How to Set Up & Use GAVPI

Episode 5 focuses on guiding a beginner through the early stages of using the free voice control software called GAVPI. This software helps to give a new user a solid understanding of how inputs are produced which can help when making more advanced commands. Episode 5 has been separated into four subsequent parts, so that each part can be focused on individually. These are all available in the above playlist, by using the YouTube player controls. The following episode (Episode 6) covers similar topics but using software called VoiceAttack. VoiceAttack simplifies the user interface which may make it easier to use. VoiceAttack also allows a user to control the mouse pointer via voice.

Please use the YouTube player controls above to navigate through the parts of this episode or use the links in the descriptions below. Jump down to Download Links for relevant resources.

Episode 5.1: Create and Load a Profile in GAVPI

Episode 5.1 shows how you can download & install the software, how you can create and load profiles, as well as how to create your first button press command. 

Episode 5.2: Create a Button Press in GAVPI

In episode 5.2 we will guide you through in detail how to set up button presses in GAVPI. Button presses are likely to be one of the most common inputs used in voice controls, and understanding exactly how they function can be important. 

Episode 5.3: Hold Down & Stop Commands in GAVPI

Episode 5.3 will guide you through how to create voice commands to hold a button down indefinitely. It will also show you how to release the button and create stop commands. Stop commands are incredibly important when using voice controls as they can be used to release all inputs should you get stuck.

Episode 5.4: Create Macro Commands in GAVPI

Episode 5.4 first introduces what a macro is, and then guides you through how you can string several button inputs together to make a macro of your own. In the video we create a macro to type the word “Hello”. However, macros can be used to replicate many complex functions of a game.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that if you intend to play and use macros online as it may trigger anti-cheat mechanisms. In some instances macros may be seen as giving a player an unfair advantage. If you are in doubt we recommend contacting the developer of your desired game and explaining how and why you intend to use your macros. 

Episode 6: How to Set Up & Use VoiceAttack

Episode 6 consists of several subsequent parts each focussing on guiding a new user through various elements of the VoiceAttack software. These are all available in the above playlist, by using the YouTube player controls. The previous episode (episode 5) covers similar topics but using free software called GAVPI. GAVPI is entirely free and helps to give a new user a solid understanding of how inputs are produced which can help when making more advanced commands, whilst VoiceAttack simplifies the user interface which may make it easier to use. VoiceAttack also allows a user to control the mouse pointer via voice.

Please use the YouTube player controls above to navigate through the parts of this episode or use the links in the descriptions below. Jump down to Download Links for relevant resources.

Episode 6.1: How to Load a Profile in VoiceAttack

Episode 6.1 gives a breakdown of the capabilities of the VoiceAttack software, and instructions on how to install the software and then guides a new user through how to create and load profiles.

Episode 6.2: How to Create a Button Press in VoiceAttack

Episode 6.2 discusses two potential methods of creating button presses within VoiceAttack.

  • The manual method – which mimics each individual action for increased control.
  • The simple method – a faster method of creating profiles. However, you lose the ability to control the individual timing of button presses.

Episode 6.3: How to Create Hold Down & Stop Commands in VoiceAttack

Episode 6.3 guides a new user through how they might create button hold commands, and several methods of stop command in order to release them. Stop commands are very important when using voice controls as they can help to release certain commands or reset you back to a neutral state should something go wrong.

Episode 6.4: How to Create Macro Commands in VoiceAttack

Episode 6.4 introduces what a macro is, and then guides you through how you can string several button inputs together to make a macro of your own. In the video we create a macro to type the word “Test”. However, macros can be used to replicate many complex functions of a game.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that if you intend to play and use macros online it may trigger anti cheat mechanisms. In some instances macros may be seen as giving a player an unfair advantage. If you are in doubt we recommend contacting the developer of your desired game and explaining how and why you intend to use your macros. 

Episode 6.5: How to Move the Mouse Pointer – Direct Coordinate Control

It is possible to move the mouse pointer using VoiceAttack. There are two main methods by which this can be achieved. In episode 6.5 we will discuss the first of these two methods: Direct Coordinate Control. Direct Coordinate Control moves the mouse pointer to a specific coordinate on the screen no matter where it was originally. This can be useful in games where certain buttons always appear in the same place, such as Menu Options or Hotbar Actions. 

Jump down to Download Links for relevant resources.

Episode 6.6: How to Move the Mouse – Continuous Mouse Movement

Episode 6.6 discusses the second method of how to move a mouse pointer via voice control: Continuous Mouse Movement. 

Continuous Mouse Movement attempts to replicate the movement of a mouse pointer across the screen in real time. This can be particularly important in three-dimensional games where the mouse pointer often controls where the camera is looking.

Episode 6.7: Continuous Mouse Movement [part 2] – Using Continuous Mouse Movement in a Profile

Episode 6.7 builds upon the ideas discussed in episode 6.6. We discuss two methods of how a new user may wish to try implementing Continuous Mouse Movement into their voice control profiles. This is achieved through the use of a 1-9 naming system, for example, ‘Right 3’, ‘Up 4’, ‘Left 2’, etc. 

The first method is more beginner friendly and faster to implement, however, it leaves slight momentary pauses throughout the mouse movement. The second method offers smoother mouse movement. However, it takes considerably longer to implement. 

Episode 6.8: Using Multiple Command Words

The last episode in our voice control series, Episode 6.8 gives a brief introduction on how to have differing words, or combinations of words, trigger a single action in VoiceAttack. 

Download Links

Throughout the series several programs, profiles, and differing software is referenced. For ease of use, links to all of the referenced materials can be found below: 

Voice Control Software:

GAVPI Download

VoiceAttack Download

SpecialEffect Voice Control Profiles: 

The following links include: 

  • Premade voice control profiles for PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One
  • The necessary Gtuner profile to be placed in input 1 of a Titan Two Adapter

SpecialEffect GAVPI Voice Control Profiles

SpecialEffect VoiceAttack Voice Control Profiles

Gtuner IV  

To be used alongside a Titan Two Adapter for use on gaming consoles:

Gtuner IV: Titan Two Adapter Software

ConsoleController.gpc is the Titan Two profile responsible for converting computer inputs into console inputs.

ConsoleController-Suspend.gpc is a secondary profile to be loaded into slot 2 alongside ConsoleController (which would be in slot 1). ConsoleController-Suspend.gpc is responsible for some of the features utilised in the advanced voice control profiles provided.

Links to Other SpecialEffect Voice Control Resources

An Introduction to Voice Controls

How to Install the SpecialEffect Voice Control Script for Use on Console

How to Import Voice Control Profiles 

How to Set Up Voice Controls on Console

How to Use MishkinaMish to Turn Vocalisations into Keyboard & Mouse Movement

Thank you and happy gaming!

If you have any questions, please Contact Us.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

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image of game controller

What is it?

On November 4th 2019 Microsoft launched their new Xbox One and Windows 10 controller, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, the successor to the original Elite controller.

The Elite Series 2 offers a host of customisability options. Standout features include: additional paddles on the back, adjustable and detachable thumb sticks of varying height and shape, wrap around grip, hair-pin triggers and interchangeable D-Pad options.

Optional components and charging dock Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

However, the features of the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 are not just mechanical. Using the Xbox Accessories App on either Xbox One or Windows 10, you can also adjust a range of additional settings to suit your preferences such as input mapping, shifting and thumb-stick and trigger sensitivity.

What can it do?

Button Mapping

The controller supports three customised profiles saved to the controller at any one time, which may be shifted between by pushing the central profile button. A white light will display which corresponds to the current profile selected. 

Profile Select section in the Xbox Accessories App

The Elite Series 2 offers almost complete button remapping, including the paddles at the back of the controller. This combined allows the player to have three setups on demand for a variety of game genres. 

The controller also offers the ability to turn one of the remappable inputs into a ‘shift‘ button. This in turn allows for the remaining remappable inputs to have two inputs mapped to it. One as its primary command, when the Shift input is not activated, and another for when it is (like when you use shift on a keyboard).

Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 remapping section in the Xbox Accessories App

Trigger Adjustments

The Elite Series 2 offers the ability to adjust the trigger sensitivity with a flick of a mechanical ‘hair-trigger’ switch. This is done via a switch located on the back of the controller that will lock the trigger on one of three settings to activate, between full movement (standard controller trigger press), half movement, and a short movement.

Xbox says, “the hair-trigger mechanical switch works great for shooting games because it reduces how much you need to pull on the triggers to fire. It may not work as well for driving games, as you need the accelerator to go the full distance for maximum acceleration.” Therefore, adjusting the trigger sensitivity in the app may be useful. Other settings can also be adjusted in the app, which we will outline below.

In addition to the adjustable mechanical hair-triggers, you can also adjust the trigger sensitivity further through the Xbox Accessories App.

Here you can select at exactly which point of the trigger pull you would like the action to take place. This allows you to set deadzones and an activation point. 

You may also set a false activation zone. That is to say, a set amount of trigger pull where nothing at all will happen. For instance, this may be useful for individuals who sometimes may accidentally press the trigger. 

Both left and right triggers can be customised independently. 

Trigger adjustment section on the Xbox Accessories App

Thumb-stick Adjustments

The thumb-sticks may also be adjusted to suit various requirements. 

The controller comes with four detachable magnetic thumb-sticks of differing shapes, sizes, and heights. 

When the thumb-stick is removed, you can use the silver key tool that comes with the controller to adjust the screw inside the thumb-stick housing. This adjusts the force required to move the thumb-stick.

This adjustment has three settings to choose between: light, medium, or heavy. For reference, ‘light’ has been described as similar to the weight of an Xbox 360 controller.

The thumb-sticks may also be adjusted in the Xbox Accessories App to change how their physical movement responds in-game. 

Thumb-stick adjustment section in the Xbox Accessories App

The App has several preset options that affect the sensitivity and behavior of both of the thumb-sticks. These settings may be a little daunting at first, as it is quite different to some of the simpler sensitivity sliders seen in some games. 

Xbox say of the setting, “you can select Default, Delay, Aggressive, Instant or Smooth, depending on how responsive you want the stick to be in your game. For example, if you want the controller to respond faster over a shorter stick movement, select Instant. You’ll see a graph that shows you a visualisation of the response curve of the stick. Note Depending on the game you play, these settings will have different responses. One way to test your settings is to set Slot 1 to Default and Slot 2 to your customized setting.”

You can also get visual feedback of these settings in the App. When you move the thumb-stick you will see two round icons moving as well. One coloured one, in this case orange, and a separate black/grey translucent one. 

Thumb-stick adjustment section in the Xbox Accessories App with preview interface

In the example above with the Sensitivity Curve set to Instant, if you moved the thumb-stick to the left (black symbol), the software (coloured symbol) is responding to exagerate the movement further, which would be felt in-game.

If you wish for the aided adjustment by the software to be increased or lessened, you would adjust the Curve Adjustment slider on the left hand side.

Thumb-stick sensitivity curves options

Vibration Adjustments

You can adjust the vibration strength for each or the four rumble motors in the controller (left trigger, right trigger, left handle and right handle) independently, between 0-100%.

Thank you and happy gaming!

If you have any questions, please Contact Us.

For more information on the controller visit: https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/accessories/controllers/elite-wireless-controller-series-2

Ninja Pizza Girl | Controls

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Show Transcript

Ninja Pizza Girl! A colourful platformer that follows the story of one plucky Pizza Ninja! The game itself has no ninja fighting; in fact you are a pizza delivery girl who makes her rounds by free-running across the city!

Slide, flip, and leap your way across the city in a race against time to deliver the pizza before it gets cold, but watch out for the other pizza ninjas!

The games story is based around the theme of bullying and whilst the severity of its themes can be adjusted in the settings menu; the theme may be sensitive for some players.

Continue reading “Ninja Pizza Girl | Controls”