Five major video game companies, including Nintendo of America and Microsoft, are launching an initiative to provide clearer information about accessibility features in their games. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) is managing the effort, which aims to standardize tags that describe a range of accessibility options.
The “Accessible Games Initiative” will use 24 pre-defined tags across various categories, such as auditory, gameplay, input, and visual features. These labels will appear on digital storefronts and product pages, giving consumers more insight into what they can expect from a game in terms of accessibility.
Companies participating in the initiative include Electronic Arts, Google, Microsoft, Nintendo of America, Ubisoft, and Sony Interactive Entertainment. Although Sony is not a founding member, it has joined the effort as part of the 10 additional companies, including Amazon Games, Riot Games, Square Enix, and Warner Bros. Games.
The tags are designed to help players with disabilities navigate games more easily. For example, “large and clear subtitles” or “mono sound” will provide specific audio options for players who require them. Similarly, features like adjustable difficulty levels or playable modes without motion controls can be labeled for easier discovery.
While the implementation timeline varies depending on each company, the ESA says it is working with participating organizations to ensure that the tags are rolled out as soon as possible.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/633405/esa-accessible-games-initiative-nintendo-google-microsoft-ea-ubisoft