adminVideo game accessibility can determine whether blind and partially sighted players are able to enjoy a game or are prevented from playing by its design. The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is calling for consistent, enforceable standards so players can understand how accessible games are before buying them and developers have clearer expectations.
Image credit: RNIB
Why video game accessibility needs consistent standards
In a white paper, RNIB says that games have often been difficult to navigate or inaccessible for people with little or no vision. The organization emphasizes that exclusion is not necessarily caused by a lack of interest or ability. Instead, barriers in a game’s design can make it difficult or impossible to play.
That uncertainty matters when a new game can cost up to £70. Without reliable accessibility information, blind and partially sighted customers may have little indication of whether a title will work for them before they spend money on it. Clear information ahead of purchase can help players make more informed choices.
RNIB recognizes that individual games and gaming platforms have made some efforts to improve access. Its concern is that these are isolated initiatives, rather than part of a consistent, enforceable approach across the industry. For players, that can mean accessibility varies significantly from one release to another.
What RNIB is asking the games industry to do
The white paper calls for accessibility to be treated as a source of innovation and inclusive design, rather than simply a compliance task. It also recommends involving disabled gamers, including people with sight loss, in user-centred design. Their input can help teams identify where a challenge is an intentional part of gameplay and where difficulty instead comes from an interface that is hard to use.
RNIB also wants new releases to include accessibility tags and statements. To be useful, this information should be easy to find and specific enough to help players assess whether a game’s features suit their needs. Developers and publishers can support informed decisions by describing accessibility clearly and consistently, rather than relying on vague claims.
- For players: Look for accessibility details before purchasing, and check whether they explain relevant features rather than using broad labels alone.
- For development teams: Include players with sight loss in design and testing so barriers can be identified during development.
- For publishers: Make accessibility information easy to locate alongside details about a new release.
How regulation and incentives could help
RNIB notes that it has worked for many years to improve access to streaming platforms, broadcast content and short-form video, areas regulated by Ofcom. It says a comparable framework does not currently exist for gaming.
John Paton, RNIB’s media, culture and immersive technologies manager, said the white paper makes the case for clear accessibility requirements and considers whether government incentives could encourage the development of fully accessible games. He also described the organization’s discussions with the industry as an early step in a wider conversation.
RNIB launched its Design for Every Game initiative in 2024 to support developers creating games that are accessible to people with sight loss. Practical progress depends on accessibility being considered throughout development, with feedback from the people affected by design decisions.
What consistent video game accessibility could mean
Consistent video game accessibility standards could make it easier for players to compare releases and for developers to understand expectations. RNIB’s call focuses on clearer requirements, better information and meaningful involvement from disabled gamers. Together, these steps could help reduce avoidable barriers and make games more welcoming to people with sight loss.
