Thanks to iGaming platforms, gaming has become popular in many countries. Millions of people log in to various gaming platforms and spend several hours playing their favorite games. However, people with disabilities do not enjoy the same luxury.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. Sadly, there is a limited record of how many gaming platforms currently cater to this demographic. With the advancement of technology, it has become imperative for the gaming industry to prioritize inclusivity. This should cover players with cognitive, visual, and auditory disabilities.
Factors to Consider in All Inclusive Gaming Designs
Several surveys have highlighted the basic needs and demands of players with disabilities. These demands border between physical and psychological support. The top items on the list include:
Visual and Auditory Support
Research studies opine that the prevalence of dual sensory impairment in the ears and eyes is estimated to be between 0.2 and 2% globally. This figure is projected to increase with age. Thus, this category of people demands an interface with features similar to Casino Jager’s. The website’s displays of colors that are easy on the eyes and smooth navigation tools make it a great example. Other requested support features include contrast settings, colorblind modes, closed captions, and adjustable sound levels.
Keyboard and Mouse Support
This is a top need among players who have mobility difficulties. By providing keyboard and mouse inputs in addition to standard controller options, these players can enjoy some mobile flexibility.
Inclusive Multiple Player Games
Gaming platforms often create opportunities for players to interact and socialize over games, and players with disabilities deserve these benefits, too. Hence, they request more friendly multiplayer modes that allow them to interact with other regular players and those with disabilities.
Frequently requested features here include text chat, voice-to-text tools, and matchmaking software.
The Potential Benefits of Inclusive Gaming
Aside from the gaming experience for players, developers and the gaming community stand to gain from inclusive gaming. The potential benefits for both parties are quite interwoven. They include:
Enhanced innovation: Creating inclusive games challenges developers to find more innovative ways to cater to players. This can spark ideas of creative games that enhance every player’s gaming experience for everyone. By incorporating different inclusive settings, characters, and storylines, developers are inspired to craft unique and engaging games.
Enhanced brand reputation: Companies focusing on inclusivity often receive positive public ratings. These efforts are considered elements of cooperative social responsibility. Thus, developers encouraging inclusivity in their gaming products will earn positive public appeal and increased support from a diverse audience.
Increased player engagement: When players encounter characters and narratives that reflect their own experiences, they are more likely to connect with the game on a deeper level. This emotional connection encourages them to fully engage and invest their time and resources into the gaming experience. By crafting relatable stories and well-developed characters, developers can create immersive games that resonate with the players.
Enhanced appreciation of our peculiarities: By immersing players in different narratives and experiences, these games promote empathy and encourage appreciation for the richness of different backgrounds. As players explore new games, they gain insights into the uniqueness of different demographics.
Strengthens the gaming community: Inclusive games often cultivate passionate and supportive communities. This enhances long-term engagement and loyalty among players. When players feel represented and valued in a game, they are more likely to form connections with others who share similar experiences and interests. This sense of belonging fosters a vibrant community where players support one another, share experiences, and advocate for the game and its developers.
Inclusive Efforts of Software Developers So Far in the Gaming Industry
The gaming industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of inclusivity and making significant strides to level the playing field for everyone. Some noteworthy efforts being made include:
Hardware Improvements
Gaming hardware manufacturers are increasingly integrating accessibility features into their products to cater to individuals with disabilities. Developments in this area include customizable buttons and switches like joysticks.
Inclusive Game Design
A game’s design is a key determinant of its level of inclusivity. To increase this level, developers are prioritizing the creation of all inclusive games. Features incorporated into modern game design include adjustable difficulty levels, multiple control options, accessible user interfaces with menus, prompts, and in-game information that are easy to navigate and understand.
Assistive Technologies
Technological advancements have enhanced the quality of gaming experiences that developers can provide players.
Developers have been able to create assistive devices like eye trackers, speech recognition tools, and adjustable control schemes for players with disabilities.
Final Thoughts
By embracing diversity and designing games that cater to players with disabilities, the gaming industry can indeed move toward a more inclusive future. Some developers have successfully demonstrated the possibilities in the video gaming industry. We can expect more developers to take inspiration from successful games to create more inclusive gaming options.
