The momentum of accessible video games
Game controller on purple background
Game companies need to close the physical disability gap in 2021 or it's game over. Recently, Deloitte’s 2021 Digital Media Trends survey found that gaming is Gen Z’s favorite form of entertainment. What their study didn’t show: while Gen Z’ loves “gamification” across all areas of their lives, part of their interest is accessible video games' inclusivity.
Video Game Accessibility By The Numbers
A survey by DoSomething Strategic found that 76 percent of Gen Z said they have or would support a brand that cares about social issues, and social impact within gaming is driving its momentum. Momentum for accessible video games rose from an MFactor of 3 in March 2021 to a 10 in April 2021.
Brands and businesses in the gaming industry that want to win over Gen Z must offer products and experiences that capture their attention and align with their values. Understanding why Gen Z finds gaming so entertaining will bring companies closer to understanding what they value. Yes, Gen Z loves that gaming is mobile, immersive, and social; but they also care about social impact initiatives.
Looking Deeper Into Accessible Video Games
Just over one in five (20.5%) of casual video gamers report having some disability, compared to 15.1% of the American population overall who have a disability. Unlike traditional sports, esports appeals to those with disabilities and allows everyone to compete on the same level.
Due to both its nature and the availability of adaptive equipment, like Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller, accessible video games allow people with physical disabilities to participate alongside their teammates and peers, following the same rules and often competing at the same level.
the future of accessible gaming
One of the top Killer Instinct players in the world is Dayton “Wheels” Jones, who, despite a diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy type II, finished fifth at the Killer Instinct World Cup in 2017 and has even scored a sponsorship from Ultra Arcade. Rocky Stountenburgh, known online as “RockyNoHands,” is a quadriplegic esports gamer who holds three Guiness World Records and has sponsorships from distinguished gaming brands like Luminosity and G-Fuel.
Accessible video games invite larger, more diverse teams, opening opportunities to create common ground between people who otherwise might never have interacted. While there are many success stories of gamers with disabilities, gaming companies should align more closely with Gen Z’s values and provide even more accessible video games and support to gamers with disabilities than they already have.