The lack of accessibility in the gaming world is astounding to me. It’s also something I never realized until I became a disabled gamer.
There are a grand total of one adaptive controllers (thanks, Xbox), but it doesn’t come with all the parts. For something so expensive, you would think it would include the switches and a joystick. Instead, I had to order and wait for more stuff. At least it works with Xbox and PC. The switch has accessibility options, but I haven’t figured them out.
In June 2020, I had an ischemic stroke on the right side of my brain, which paralyzed the left side of my body and affected my vision. So not only am I one handed, but also visually impaired.
Many of my favorite PC games have the ability to be played one handed, such as World of Warcraft, Diablo 3, and Among us. I miss playing Overwatch and Dead by Daylight, but I’ll find a way eventually. Maybe once the rest of my adaptive controller comes in.
There needs to be more pressure on game developers to include accessibility options in their games, especially Triple-A titles. I’m part of an indie developer team myself, and all it took was one text message to our programmer to get the affirmative on making our games one-handed accessible.
Gaming should be accessible to everyone, regardless of gender identity, race, sexual orientation, or ability. The only way that can happen is if those making the games start representing and accommodating for these underappreciated groups of people.
To our handi-capable readers: I am so sorry I never advocated for you until I became disabled. It’s easy to take able-bodiedness for granted when that’s all you’ve ever experienced. Moving forward, I will attempt to give this undervalued community a voice in the gaming world.
Photo: Benjamin J. Heckendorn for benheck.com
Real Women of Gaming 