Charles Merritt, aka “QuadCapable” is a quadriplegic gamer, Marine Corps veteran, and founder of QuadCapable. Gaming has always been his way to stay connected, compete, and show that disability doesn’t limit what’s possible – it just changes how we play. From adaptive controllers to accessibility advocacy, he’s here to prove that we’re all capable of greatness in-game and in life. Tools for Life recently sat down with him for an interview. 

Tools for Life (TFL): How did you get into gaming, and what role does it play in your life?

QuadCapable: I’ve been gaming ever since I was a kid – it started as a fun hobby, but after my injury, gaming became so much more than that. It’s a way for me to connect with others, to compete, to escape when needed, and honestly, to feel powerful in ways that my body doesn’t always allow in real life. Gaming gives me an outlet to just be me without barriers.

TFL: Have you found support or friendship through gaming platforms?

QuadCapable: Absolutely. Some of my closest friends are people I’ve met through gaming. Whether it’s my squad on Warzone, friends I talk to daily on Discord, or people I’ve met in adaptive gaming communities, there’s always been someone there to laugh with, strategize with, and vent to on the hard days.

TFL: What does the gaming community mean to you? 

QuadCapable: To me, the gaming community is a place where anyone can belong. Sure, there are toxic corners like anywhere, but overall, gaming communities have shown me that people can see past my disability and just see me as another teammate, another opponent, or another friend. It means acceptance, connection, and endless possibilities.

TFL: What accessibility features do you appreciate most in games?

QuadCapable: I appreciate games that allow full controller remapping, compatibility with adaptive controllers like my Quadstick, and games that let me customize gameplay speed or difficulty if needed. Little things like toggle options instead of holds, or aiming assists, can make or break whether a game is playable for someone like me.

TFL: If you could change one thing about how games are designed or marketed, what would it be?

QuadCapable: I’d want accessibility to be a priority from day one of design – not just an afterthought or checkbox. I’d also love to see disabled gamers represented authentically in marketing and within the stories of games themselves. Seeing someone like me as a hero in a campaign mode would be powerful for everyone.

TFL: What does Disability Pride Month mean to you? Is there a message you’d like to share with others – gamers or not – during this month?

QuadCapable: Disability Pride Month is a great time to recognize and celebrate our community, but honestly, I think our lives and experiences should be celebrated every single day, not just one month out of the year. For me, it’s about embracing who we are without apology, showing the world that disability isn’t something to hide – it’s a part of the human experience. My message is simple: we deserve to be seen, heard, and included every day. Whether you’re a gamer or not, remember that accessibility and inclusion aren’t special features – they’re basic human rights.