In a groundbreaking move, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has launched the Accessible Games Initiative, a new tagging system designed to provide gamers with detailed accessibility information. The announcement came today at the Game Developers Conference, with the initiative spearheaded by a coalition comprising Electronic Arts, Google, Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony, and Ubisoft. Additional supporters, including Amazon, Riot Games, Square Enix, and WB Games, have joined forces under the ESA’s management.
The initiative introduces a set of 24 approved tags that participating game companies can apply to their titles. These tags will appear near each game’s project details on digital storefronts and product pages, offering consumers valuable insights into the accessibility features available. This effort aims to ensure that millions of gamers with disabilities can enjoy the full range of gaming experiences without facing unnecessary barriers.
What Do the Accessible Games Initiative Tags Include?
The Accessible Games Initiative features 24 distinct tags that span various categories, ensuring comprehensive coverage of accessibility needs. Below is a breakdown of the key tags:
Auditory Features
- Multiple Volume Controls: Allows users to adjust the volume of different sound types independently.
- Mono Sound: Enables playing with a single audio channel.
- Stereo Sound: Offers standard stereo audio experience.
- Surround Sound: Provides immersive surround sound capabilities.
- Narrated Menus: Uses screen readers or voice narration for menu navigation and notifications.
- Chat Speech-to-Text & Text-to-Speech: Supports real-time transcription and voice-to-text communication during gameplay.
Gameplay Features
- Difficulty Levels: Offers adjustable difficulty settings to cater to diverse skill levels.
- Save Anytime: Grants players the ability to save progress at any point during gameplay.
Input Features
- Basic Input Remapping: Allows basic remapping of button controls.
- Full Input Remapping: Enables complete customization of all input methods.
- Stick Inversion: Lets players reverse thumbstick movements.
- Playable without Button Holds: Removes the need for holding down buttons.
- Playable without Rapid Button Presses: Avoids repetitive button actions.
- Playable with Keyboard Only: Supports keyboard-only play.
- Playable with Mouse Only: Ensures compatibility with mouse-only setups.
- Playable with Buttons Only: Allows digital input-only gameplay.
- Playable with Touch Only: Supports touch-based controls exclusively.
- Playable Without Motion Controls: Excludes motion-based interactions.
- Playable Without Touch Controls: Removes reliance on touchscreens or touchpads.
Visual Features
- Clear Text: Ensures readable text sizes and adjustable contrast.
- Large Text: Offers larger font sizes for improved visibility.
- Large & Clear Subtitles: Provides easily readable subtitles for all dialogue.
- Color Alternatives: Avoids relying solely on color-coded information.
- Camera Comfort: Eliminates potential discomfort-causing camera effects.
Why Is This Initiative Important?
Stanley Pierre-Louis, ESA President and CEO, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “Tens of millions of Americans have a disability and often face barriers to experiencing the joy and connection that comes with playing video games.” He added, “We are immensely proud to announce the Accessible Games Initiative in partnership with industry leaders. This initiative demonstrates how impactful we can be when we work together in our industry-wide pursuit of helping more people experience the power of play.”
Initially, the tags will roll out gradually across participating companies and are currently available only in English. Future updates may introduce additional tags or refine existing ones based on feedback and evolving needs.
