Have you ever wondered how visually impaired individuals can enjoy gaming? With the rise of technology and innovative advancements, gaming is becoming more accessible to everyone, including those with vision impairment.
Gaming is a popular pastime for people of all ages, even more so for younger people. But for those with visual impairments, it can be a challenge. However, with the development of accessible gaming technology, individuals with visual impairments can now participate in gaming just like everyone else.
At InFocus, we believe gaming should be a fun and inclusive activity for everyone, regardless of limitations. We’ll explore the world of accessible gaming for the visually impaired, highlighting the most popular types of games and technologies.
Accessible gaming for everyone
At InFocus, we believe that gaming should be a fun and inclusive experience for everyone, regardless of ability. We are committed to making gaming accessible and enjoyable for all players. We’ve even helped develop gamified vision therapy for young people with partial visual field loss caused by brain injury.
Our game – Eyelander, aims to improve functional vision by changing the way you move your eyes when searching for objects. It incorporates behavioural therapy designed to improve the player’s speed and accuracy. You can play this game via a web browser, with a mouse and keyboard.
Benefits of gaming for people with visual impairment
Gaming for the visually impaired is not only an enjoyable activity, but it also provides a range of benefits. Gaming helps to stimulate mental and physical activity, which can help improve concentration, problem-solving skills, coordination and memory. It also provides social interaction with friends or family who might also like to join in.
In addition to the physical and mental benefits, gaming can also provide a sense of independence for those with visual impairments. By being able to participate in gaming activities, visually impaired individuals can feel empowered and involved in the gaming community.
Computer games for vision impairment
Computer games for the visually impaired are becoming increasingly accessible with technology advancements. Modern game systems, such as the Xbox Series X and PS5 feature a range of accessibility options. Each is designed to make gaming more accessible for those with visual impairments.
For those who are unable to use a controller, voice-activated games can be very helpful. Voice-activated games allow players to control the game through verbal commands, making it easier for those vision loss to play. Apps such as Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller make gaming even more accessible for all kinds of gamers.
Tabletop games for vision impairment
Tabletop gaming has become increasingly popular in recent years, becoming more accessible for those with visual impairments. Tabletop games, such as Dungeons & Dragons and other role-playing games, have been adapted for those with visual disabilities through ebooks.
Board games for people with visual impairment
Board games are a great way to get the family together for some fun and entertaining game nights. There are now several board games and card games that have been adapted to be accessible for those with visual impairments.
For example, Braille Monopoly is a version of the classic game that includes braille pieces instead of traditional dice and money. This makes it easier to play for those with visual impairments. Other notable games include:
- Scrabble
- Uno
- Dominoes
- Bananagrams
- Checkers
- Playing Cards
- Chess
Puzzles for people with vision impairments
Puzzles are another way for those with visual impairments to enjoy a game. Puzzles can come in all shapes and sizes, from simple jigsaw puzzles to more complex 3D puzzles, promoting mental stimulation.
For those with visual impairments, tactile puzzles are a great option, as they can be solved by touch alone. These puzzles often feature raised shapes or figures that can be felt and identified by the player.
One example is a Rubik’s cube with tactile markings, allowing a player to work out which pieces need to be moved. Similarly, tactile puzzles can be used to create different shapes and figures, providing an interesting challenge for those with visual impairments.
For more information on visual aids and technology, please see our guide on aids for people with visual impairment.