Accessibility In Gaming Matters, And It Should Go Beyond Subtitles

Accessibility in the gaming industry has indeed progressed remarkably. Features like subtitles and colorblind modes, which have started showing up much more frequently in titles, ensure that more players can fully engage in games. However, I feel like now is the time to go beyond simple adjustments and broaden the design to be adapted for diverse groups, including those who have sensory, physical, and cognitive disabilities.

Thoughtful design and inclusivity are appreciated, after all — a game that can incorporate incredible immersion because more people can experience it. However, as the gaming industry begins to grow exponentially in scale and invite more people, it’s imperative these groups aren’t neglected.

Improving Accessibility In Imaginative Ways To Make Gaming Truly For Everyone

For starters, subtitles are the immediate and first thing that any player thinks of when having it in mind for gaming, although there is much improvement towards this end to invite every gamer.

Subtitles are one of the most important basic things in a game, and yet so many games **** it up and I don't know why.
byu/Rodeo4613 inpatientgamers

Traditionally, I can’t say the common definition of subtitles only includes reading back what people say as a form of conveying simple dialogue. Still, deep captions, which may include sound, music, and emotional tinges, can certainly help most understand the atmosphere of their experience. As such, the in-game text should be configurable with regard to the sizes, colors, transparency settings of the background, and so much more.

According to Private Internet Access (PIA), accessibility gaming maximizes user experience since it allows users to personalize certain features to their needs. Subtitles are already something most games do, so customizable captions can be even better not just for deaf players but also for those with visual impairments or dyslexia.

Visual Cues And Text-To-Speech To Remove Audio Barriers

Games, especially horror titles like Outlast 2 or Resident Evil 8, would never be as impactful had it not been for their eerie audio design. Sound effects in games add tension, emphasize key points, and alert the player to certain events. Unfortunately, players with hearing impairments can’t experience the same awe, but they must be accommodated nonetheless.

Visual cues can be icons, directional arrows, color-coded signals, or even vibrations to alert players of approaching enemies or nearby objectives. This would help the player feel the game without relying on sound. If something dangerous, like a monster, is approaching you, you can react to it with a corresponding icon instead of listening for subtle footsteps.

On the other side of the spectrum, there’s a large community that faces trouble with visual signals instead. Standard voice chat features, especially in several communication-focused multiplayer titles, are often limited to players with hearing and speech abilities.

With TTS and STT capabilities becoming mainstream in these titles, this will no longer be an issue. Visual indicators, simplified interfaces, and optional hints all allow the player to learn at their own pace, which is helpful for neurodivergent players such as those with ADHD or autism.

Text to speech for UI and other accessibility plugins for totally blind users.
byu/blindaccessgamer inffxivdiscussion

Customizing Controls And Difficulty Levels To Add Convenience

Traditional gaming setups can be complicated for people with physical disabilities. Heck, some games don’t even support controllers or controller configurations, which, more than anything, is just complacent.

Therefore, a controller or keyboard-customizing option can change the gaming experience to meet your unique needs. With remapping of controls, sensory adjustments, and the possibility of using one’s hand or even feet to control the game, players who suffer from motor impairments can access these games.

Let’s look at a game like Elden Ring — universally loved, an award-winning title, but it’s just so challenging for a casual player that most don’t get the chance to experience it in its full glory. Adjustable difficulty levels, as a result, allow players to experience the game at their preferred challenge level.

Other features, such as “auto-aim,” extended reaction times, and simpler user interfaces, can also create a more enjoyable experience for those who find fast-paced, high-stakes environments overwhelming.

Of course, these do have some drawbacks — you don’t want these additional tools to create an unfair advantage. As such, it’s up to the developers to ensure their games have these accessibility features implemented in such a way that it doesn’t incentivize every player to use it because of an extra edge.

Conclusion

Digital accessibility is not only a question of fairness but also increases the quality of experience for everyone. Whenever the needs and preferences of the diverse masses have been considered in game development, developers find that their games indeed include a larger audience.

I’m glad to see how these strides are being recognized, appreciated, and encouraged in the industry, but there’s so much more to do.

The primary concern is how the developers can’t infuse accessibility into a challenge, motivating players to excel while giving them the right tools; this is an avenue to be improved upon. Beyond subtitles and simple accessibility features, games implementing meaningful accessibility features make every player feel empowered, connected, and worthy.