Video games are always changing, and in recent years much of that change has been to make gaming more accessible. The industry is starting to take steps to recognize their handi-capable fan base. From console peripherals to game design itself, games now more than ever are reaching a wider audience.
Recently Xbox’s Adaptive controller has made waves in the accessible community. This device has two large buttons and a d-pad, but what’s special is the 19 ports in the back allowing users to connect more peripherals and buttons to fully customize the controls in a way that suits their needs. With this layout, anyone of any ability level can play. There are even ways to get this to work outside of Microsoft products, like on a Nintendo Switch.
It is not just large hardware companies getting involved. Indie developers are making their products more user friendly, as well. Last years’ indie darling Celest incorporated an Assist Mode in the settings menu. This mode allowed players to adjust health, jumps, and even the speed at which things happen in the game. All of this allows the player to scale the difficulty to fit their needs and playstyle, so they can focus on enjoying the story, art, and the fun of the game.
Game designers are not just adding features to make their games more accessible, but also creating games for the accessible community. Lost and Hound, due out later this year, is a game made by a sound design studio that features a rich soundscape leading you from location to location, acting as the games version of scent. “You can play the entire game with your eyes closed, and was made with the blind community in mind,” said developer Brian Smith of Daisy Ale Soundworks. “I wanted people to hear where they needed to go, not just see where the next objective is.”
More and more companies, big and small, are adopting new ideas and policies to make gaming more accessible and inclusive. Fans everywhere are rejoicing for the chance to get back to playing games they loved, or even trying something new that once seemed impossible. While it is important to recognize how far gaming accessibility has come in the last few years, there is still a lot more to do before gaming can be truly E for everyone.
- Owen Paterline