Accessibility
Ongoing coverage on Accessibility.
Latest coverage
GNOME 50 released with much improved Parental Controls and lots more
GNOME 50 "Tokyo" has been released, introducing significant improvements to parental controls, including screen time monitoring and limit setting. The update also enhances accessibility features, revamps the preferences window, and introduces global settings. Key technical advancements include improved Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Fractional Scaling support, low-latency cursor handling in VRR, NVIDIA performance boosts, next-generation color management, and HDR screen sharing capabilities.
Arc Raiders is banning people for using accessibility peripherals, so Embark is "working hard" to resolve the…
Embark Studios is addressing an issue where players using accessibility peripherals for Arc Raiders were being banned. After a player highlighted their ban on Reddit, the company acknowledged the problem and stated they are working to resolve it, with the affected player's account now reinstated.
You can play CS2 in Minecraft without mods, and I might actually prefer it
A fan-made project called CounterMine 2 allows players to experience Counter-Strike 2 gameplay within Minecraft, featuring weapon skins. This version is highlighted as a more accessible alternative to the original game.
All Access
Electronic Arts' EA Sports FC 26 has made significant strides in accessibility, avoiding common pitfalls that have plagued other titles. The game is being highlighted for its groundbreaking approach to inclusive design, setting a new standard for the industry.
How EA Sports FC 26 Avoided Being A "Cautionary Tale" And Made Accessibility History
EA Sports FC 26 has been recognized for its significant advancements in game accessibility, earning multiple awards and nominations. The development team, including gameplay producer Paul Parsons and accessibility director Morgan Baker, collaborated closely with the disabled community and drew inspiration from other EA titles to implement features like High Contrast Mode and Text-to-Speech, aiming to set a new industry standard for inclusive game design.
Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch Gets Update 22.0.0, Adds ‘Handheld Mode Boost’ Option
Nintendo has released system update version 22.0.0 for both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The update introduces a 'Handheld Mode Boost' option for the Switch 2, enhancing visuals and performance in compatible games. It also includes various improvements to features like Game Chat, Friend List notes, Airplane Mode, and accessibility options.
Avowed on PS5 – Making the wait for The Elder Scrolls 6 a little less painful
Obsidian Entertainment's fantasy action RPG Avowed is now available on PlayStation 5 as part of Microsoft's multiplatform strategy, offering an experience reminiscent of The Elder Scrolls series. The game features a vibrant world tied to the Pillars of Eternity universe, a compelling cast of characters, and flexible combat mechanics. While not as sprawling as Skyrim, Avowed provides a focused narrative with rewarding exploration and smart design choices, making it a strong contender in the RPG genre.
Fear not, phobia havers, Slay the Spire 2 will be catering to you in a future update
Slay the Spire 2 will be receiving a phobia accessibility mode in a future update, according to a recent newsletter. While no specific release date has been provided, developer Mega Crit is also working on revamping the badge and scoring system, adding Steam Workshop support, and improving multiplayer features. The game is currently in early access.
Slay the Spire 2 will give you the option to hide its most unsettling enemies
Mega Crit has announced that Slay the Spire 2 will include accessibility options to hide unsettling enemies, catering to players with phobias. The developer also plans to implement Steam Workshop support for the game, though a specific release timeline has not yet been provided.
Slay the Spire 2 will give you the option to hide its most unsettling enemies
Mega Crit has announced that Slay the Spire 2 will include accessibility options to hide unsettling enemies, catering to players with phobias. The developer also plans to implement Steam Workshop support for the game, though a specific release timeline has not yet been provided.
Discord rolls out a nice improvement for video calls on Linux
Discord has released a significant update for its Linux version, introducing background replacement for video calls. This update also includes performance enhancements, making the app launch faster, and improvements to accessibility features for users relying on screen readers.
Want to Play Big Walk? You’ll Need to Take One First
Indie publisher Panic has announced that demos for their upcoming game, Big Walk, will only be available by playing in person at their office, eschewing digital distribution methods like Steam. This unconventional marketing strategy has sparked debate within the gaming community, with some praising its novelty and others criticizing its impracticality and potential to alienate players. The success of this approach hinges on the game's quality and the execution of the in-person experience, potentially signaling a shift towards more experiential marketing in the industry.
GDC Awards 2026 to recognise Don Daglow and Rebecca Heineman
Don Daglow will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award and Rebecca Heineman will be posthumously honored with the Ambassador Award at the 2026 Game Developers Choice Awards. Daglow, a veteran of over five decades in game development, and Heineman, known for her advocacy and contributions to over 250 titles, are recognized for their significant impact on the industry.
Nintendo Switch 2 Launches June 5 — New Hardware, GameChat, and Massive Game Lineup Revealed - NintendoFuse
Nintendo has officially revealed the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on June 5, 2025, for $449.99. The new hybrid console features a larger 7.9-inch display, enhanced processing power, 256 GB of storage, and new features like GameChat for voice and video communication. The launch lineup includes first-party titles such as Mario Kart World and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, alongside strong third-party support from companies like FromSoftware and Rockstar Games.
Color Prediction Games Gain Fresh Player Interest - Walkthrough, Tips, Review
Color prediction games are experiencing a surge in popularity across various online platforms, including desktops and mobile devices. Their simple yet engaging gameplay, coupled with social features and increasing accessibility through technology, contributes to their widespread appeal among casual gamers. Developers are keeping the genre fresh with new patterns and challenges, while players are drawn to the blend of strategy and surprise.
MotoGP 25: Deep Dive into Accessibility, Immersion, and Innovation
MotoGP 25 aims to balance simulation purism with arcade accessibility, featuring significant visual upgrades powered by Unreal Engine 5 and highly detailed audio design. The game introduces gyroscope controls for a more tactile experience and offers an accessible Arcade mode as a gateway to its deeper simulation aspects, alongside a forgiving Race Off mode.
