New industry-backed accessibility initiative makes it easier for disabled gamers to find games

The ESA noted that these tags were “developed with insight and feedback sourced directly from players with disabilities, accessibility advocacy groups, and game development teams.” According to the Accessible Games Initiative website, the list of tags includes auditory features, gameplay features, input features, and visual features.

The standardisation of tags will make it easier for gamers with disabilities to find games with accessibility features or assistive device compatibility, also helping parents and teachers discover suitable games. However, the implementation of these tags is voluntary and will be displayed on digital storefronts, product pages, or digital catalogues. Currently, game developers use their own in-house accessibility tags, which may not always be effective in identifying games with the right accessibility features.

The five founding members and Sony Interactive Entertainment “first developed” the initiative. However, Sony isn’t a founding member. Amazon Games, Riot Games, Square Enix, and Warner Bros. Games have since joined the initiative.

A growing number of tech companies and leading game developers are incorporating more accessibility features—both in hardware and software—as part of a broader push to include accessibility in the design process. Advocates say it is critical for companies to hire and consult disabled people when creating products.

Tech companies like Google and Apple already include several accessibility features in their smartphones and operating systems, while Microsoft and Sony have introduced gaming products for players with limited mobility in recent years. However, there is still a long road ahead to making tech products and games universally accessible.