An Analysis of Accessible Design in the Game Industry

Games have traditionally had a high barrier to entry because they necessitate unique input devices, fast reaction times, high motor skills, and more. There has recently been a push to change the design process of these games to include people with disabilities so they can interact with the medium of games as well. This thesis examines the current guiding principles of accessible design, who they are being developed by, and how they might help guide future accessible design and development. Additionally, it will look at modern games with accessibility features and classify them in terms of the Game Accessibility Guidelines. Then, using an interview with a lead developer at a game studio as aid, there will be an examination into modern game industry practices and what might be holding developers or studios back when it comes to accessible design. Finally, further suggestions for these developers and studios will be made in order to help them and others improve in making their games more accessible to people with disabilities.