Unlocking Inclusive Gaming: A Path to True Accessibility

The gaming industry has a profound responsibility to its players, with ever-evolving obligations. Currently, efforts to make games accessible to disabled audiences are falling short. However, the industry is gaining momentum in addressing accessibility concerns. Studios like Sony Santa Monica Studio have made notable improvements in accessibility features, such as navigation assists and audio cues, in games like God of War Ragnarök. Forza Motorsport has also introduced Blind Driving Assists, making the game more accessible to blind and low-vision players. Despite these advancements, the industry still has a long way to go in terms of accessibility. Many games launch with small text, poor contrast, and color-reliant information, excluding players with visual impairments. Some games also lack fully remappable controls, which can be a significant barrier to accessibility. The issue of accessibility in games is not new, but advancing technology has created new challenges. For example, increasing screen resolutions and higher DPI have enabled developers to produce microscopic text, which can alienate players with visual impairments. Allowing players to adjust text size can make games more accessible without compromising aesthetics or immersion. In-game remapping is a frequently requested accessibility feature that should be a standard practice. Simplifying button requirements can also be helpful, as seen in Uncharted 4's single-stick control option, which was embraced by a third of its players. Developers must consider whether intricate control uses are necessary or can be made optional for a more inclusive experience. Color usage in games can also be a problem, particularly for players with color blindness. Adding shapes or icons to communicate information can help alleviate this issue. Checking for adequate contrast between text color and background is another important consideration, as well as flexible subtitle presentation and captioning important audio or musical cues. Cognitive load is another critical aspect to consider, as it can affect players with disabilities. Addressing the amount of information presented simultaneously, methods used to present and convey systems, and diverse learning paths available can help alleviate cognitive strain. Similarly, handling sensory load is essential, as too many flashy visuals, simultaneous noises, or uncontrolled camera movements can affect different people. Getting accessibility right is not an exact science, and disabled players are the experts in their own lived experiences. Their voices need to be heard throughout the development process, whether through playtesting, user research, or social media callouts. Developers should never assume the needs of any group, especially when the spectrum of needs and barriers is vast. Accessibility considerations often come late in production, which can be costly and difficult to fix. Collaborating with accessibility experts early on is essential, particularly for smaller studios with limited budgets. Educational institutions can also have a positive impact by teaching accessibility in games and ensuring their classes are accessible. To make a difference, accessibility must become part of a company's culture, not just a checkbox exercise. It's about creating an inclusive workplace and engaging people from disabled communities to gain real insights and build authentic advocates. The future of gaming is inclusive, and it's time for game studios to make accessibility a central pillar of their design philosophy and collaborate to achieve it.