Exploring Inclusive Design
Accessibility in gaming often focuses on the options menu: customizing controls, adjusting subtitles, and activating colorblind filters. These settings are crucial for removing barriers for disabled players, but they represent only a small part of the accessibility picture. While options are important, a truly accessible game goes beyond menus and considers accessibility throughout the entire development process.
The goal of inclusive design is to create games that are enjoyable and accessible for everyone, regardless of ability. This means considering accessibility at every stage of development, from the initial concept to the final polish. It involves asking questions like:
- Does the game rely on color cues that might exclude colorblind players?
- Are there mandatory quick-time events that might be difficult for players with dexterity limitations?
- Can the game be played effectively with a limited number of inputs?
By addressing these questions, developers can create games that are more inclusive and enjoyable for a wider range of players.
My Experience with Inclusive Design
Before becoming a professional accessibility critic, my love for games began with turn-based titles and heavy multiplayer components. These genres allowed me to take breaks between turns or rely on friends for support. Pokémon became my favorite franchise because of its simplicity.
The grid-based traversal and turn-based combat allowed me to play for extended periods with a single finger, giving me the time and control I needed. Even as the series transitioned to 3-D, the core gameplay remained accessible. Action games like Kingdom Hearts also appealed to me due to their straightforward controls. By focusing on single-stick movement, I could manage energy for fights while navigating levels.
These games, designed long before the mainstream accessibility movement, demonstrate that inclusivity can be achieved through thoughtful design choices, even without elaborate options menus.
The Future of Accessibility
The future of accessibility in gaming lies in embracing a more holistic approach. We should expect games to be playable by default, with options used to address specific challenges that design cannot fix. Instead of just praising games for the number of settings they offer, we should evaluate the game’s overall accessibility, regardless of the presence of menus.
A game that can be played effectively with minimal options is more accessible than one that relies heavily on them. While games like The Last of Us Part II and God of War Ragnarök are praised for their extensive accessibility features, it’s time to move beyond simply counting options and start evaluating the impact of design choices on player experience.
By understanding and appreciating the value of inclusive design, the gaming industry can move towards a future where all players can enjoy the same experiences, regardless of their abilities.
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