Gaming should be accessible to everyone. Our comprehensive accessibility analysis helps you find games and hardware that meet your specific needs, regardless of ability.
Accessibility isn't a checklist or afterthought—it's fundamental to gaming's future. Every review we publish includes detailed accessibility analysis because disabled gamers deserve the same informed purchasing decisions as anyone else.
We evaluate games against established accessibility frameworks, consult with disabled gamers and accessibility advocates, and test features firsthand when possible. Our goal is providing specific, actionable information about what accommodation features exist and how well they're implemented.
Beyond individual game reviews, we maintain guides to accessible hardware, platform-level accessibility features, and resources for Australian gamers seeking accessible gaming experiences.
Features supporting players with visual impairments, including blindness, low vision, and colourblindness.
Accommodations for deaf and hard-of-hearing players, ensuring audio information is accessible through alternative means.
Options for players with limited mobility, reduced dexterity, or other motor impairments affecting control input.
Features assisting players with cognitive disabilities, learning differences, or conditions affecting information processing.
Modern gaming platforms include system-level accessibility features that apply across all games. Understanding these platform capabilities helps you choose hardware that supports your needs.
PS5 offers comprehensive system-level accessibility including screen reader support, text-to-speech, voice dictation, button remapping at system level, and zoom functionality. The console supports closed captions for system audio and provides haptic feedback customisation.
Visual settings include high contrast mode, colour correction filters, and motion blur reduction. Audio features include mono audio output and adjustable chat transcription. The DualSense controller's adaptive triggers can be disabled for players with grip strength limitations.
Xbox features extensive accessibility options including Narrator screen reader, Magnifier, high contrast themes, and colour filters. The console supports the Xbox Adaptive Controller, providing unparalleled motor accessibility options.
Game-agnostic features include button remapping, copilot mode (allowing two controllers to act as one), audio description support, and speech-to-text/text-to-speech for party chat. Night mode reduces eye strain, and audio settings include mono audio and separate volume controls.
PC offers maximum accessibility flexibility through Windows accessibility features, third-party software, and hardware options. Eye-tracking technology, voice control software, and custom input devices provide solutions for diverse needs.
Software like SpecialEffect's EyeMine enables eye-controlled gaming. Windows Magnifier, Narrator, and high contrast modes work across games. PC supports virtually any input device through drivers and mapping software, from adaptive controllers to mouth-operated mice.
Switch provides button remapping, zoom functionality, and reduced motion options at system level. The console's hybrid nature allows both handheld and docked play, offering flexibility in viewing distance and posture.
Limitations include lack of system-wide screen reader and limited audio accessibility features compared to PlayStation and Xbox. However, the detachable Joy-Cons can be used as individual one-handed controllers, and multiple control schemes accommodate different grip styles.
iOS and Android include robust system-level accessibility: VoiceOver and TalkBack screen readers, display accommodations, switch control for external input devices, and extensive audio options.
Touch-based controls present unique accessibility challenges but also opportunities—customisable touch sensitivity, large tap targets, and gesture alternatives help many players. External controller support on both platforms provides traditional input options.
Cloud gaming services inherit accessibility features from underlying platforms but introduce latency considerations affecting timing-dependent accessibility features like aim assist or quick-time events.
Benefits include playing high-end games without expensive hardware, potential cross-device continuity, and accessing games unavailable on more accessible local platforms. Australian internet infrastructure quality significantly impacts cloud gaming viability.
Adaptive controllers and assistive hardware expand gaming access for players with motor impairments. These devices range from modified standard controllers to completely customised input solutions.
Microsoft's flagship adaptive controller features large programmable buttons and 19 jack inputs for external switches, buttons, mounts, and joysticks. The flat surface accommodates mounting accessories.
Available in Australia through Microsoft Store and select retailers, typically priced around $149 AUD. Compatible with Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and some mobile devices. Copilot mode allows pairing with standard controllers.
Sony's adaptive controller for PS5 features swappable button caps, stick toppers, and button placement customisation. The circular design accommodates various grip styles and mounting positions.
Australian availability through PlayStation Direct and major retailers at approximately $139 AUD. Two Access Controllers can pair together to function as a single input device, enabling distributed control across multiple surfaces.
Companies like Logitech, Hori, and QuadStick produce specialised controllers: mouth-operated devices, one-handed controllers, foot pedals, and custom button boxes that integrate with adaptive controllers.
Australian suppliers include specialised retailers and occupational therapy providers. Pricing varies dramatically based on customisation. Some solutions qualify for NDIS funding when prescribed for disability-related needs.
Tobii Eye Tracker and similar devices enable eye-controlled gaming for players unable to use hand-based inputs. Head-tracking solutions like TrackIR provide alternative aim control for PC gaming.
Eye-trackers range from $299-$399 AUD. Software like Tobii Game Hub and OptiKey provide control schemes for various games. Compatibility varies by game; simulation and strategy titles generally offer better support than fast-action games.
These games demonstrate exceptional accessibility implementation, serving as industry benchmarks and providing excellent experiences for players with various accessibility needs.
Naughty Dog's action-adventure features over 60 accessibility settings including comprehensive screen reader support, extensive audio cues replacing visual information, and granular difficulty customisation. The game proves AAA action experiences can be accessible without compromising artistic vision.
Turn 10's racing simulator includes sign language cutscenes, blind driving assists using audio cues, colourblind-friendly UI, and extensive control customisation. The game demonstrates accessibility in competitive multiplayer environments.
Santa Monica Studio built on strong accessibility foundations with features including navigation assistance, audio description, high contrast mode, and persistent subtitles. Combat assist options maintain challenge while accommodating timing or precision difficulties.
Tango Gameworks' rhythm-action game offers visual rhythm guides, timing assistance, and options to separate rhythm from combat effectiveness. The game proves rhythm-based gameplay can be accessible to players with timing or auditory challenges.
Insomniac's superhero action game features audio frequency visualisation for puzzle-solving, extensive subtitle customisation, game speed adjustment, and chase-assist options. The traversal-heavy game proves fast-paced movement can accommodate varied player abilities.
Matt Makes Games' precision platformer includes assist mode with dash count, speed adjustment, and invincibility options—proving accessibility needn't dilute challenging game design when implemented thoughtfully alongside standard difficulty.
Adaptive gaming equipment may qualify for NDIS funding under Assistive Technology when prescribed by occupational therapists for therapeutic or social participation purposes. Participants should discuss gaming needs with support coordinators and OTs familiar with adaptive technology.
Specialised retailers like Enabled Gaming and mainstream stores increasingly stock adaptive controllers. Occupational therapy clinics often maintain relationships with suppliers and can facilitate trials before purchase.
Australian disability gaming communities provide peer support, equipment recommendations, and setup guidance. Online communities connect players facing similar accessibility needs, sharing configuration tips and game recommendations.
Occupational therapists specialising in assistive technology can assess gaming needs, recommend equipment, and assist with configuration. Some OTs now include gaming accessibility in therapeutic programs recognising its social and cognitive benefits.
Well-designed accessibility features accommodate disabilities without eliminating intended challenge. For example, remappable controls don't reduce difficulty—they just allow players with different motor abilities to engage with the same challenge on equal footing.
Some accessibility options do alter difficulty (combat assists, aim support), but these are typically optional and don't invalidate achievements. The goal is letting players engage with content at their skill level regardless of disability, not bypassing challenge entirely.
Adaptive controllers function as standard controllers at the system level, so they technically work with any game. However, effectiveness depends on whether games include necessary accessibility features like button remapping, hold-to-toggle options, and adjustable timing windows.
A game might be physically playable with adaptive hardware but remain functionally inaccessible if it requires precise timing without adjustment options or lacks alternative means to access visual information.
Check our detailed accessibility breakdowns in game reviews. We evaluate specific features across visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive accessibility categories. Websites like Can I Play That? and AbleGamers provide dedicated accessibility reviews.
Developer accessibility statements (when available) list included features. Gaming communities focused on specific disabilities often maintain game recommendation lists and can provide firsthand experience from players with similar needs.
Difficulty options scale challenge for all players. Accessibility features accommodate specific disabilities to enable participation. Someone might play on maximum difficulty while using accessibility features like subtitles, colourblind mode, or button remapping.
Confusion arises because some features serve both purposes. Aim assist helps players with limited dexterity but also makes games easier for anyone. Best practice separates these concerns: accessibility features available regardless of difficulty setting, with separate challenge modifiers.
Multiplayer accessibility presents unique challenges since competitive balance matters. However, many multiplayer games successfully implement accessibility without compromising fairness. Communication alternatives (ping systems, speech-to-text), customisable interfaces, and matchmaking options improve accessibility.
Cooperative multiplayer often accommodates accessibility better than competitive modes. Some games offer accessibility-focused modes where players with similar needs can compete on equal footing. Voice chat alternatives particularly help deaf/hard-of-hearing players participate in team communication.
Some Microsoft and PlayStation retail partners maintain demo units. Occupational therapists specialising in assistive technology often have equipment for assessment. Gaming expos and accessibility-focused events sometimes include try-before-you-buy opportunities.
Contact local OT clinics, disability services organisations, or gaming retailers to inquire about trial availability. Some retailers offer extended return policies for adaptive equipment recognising the need to test compatibility with individual needs.
We're here to help you find gaming experiences that work for your specific accessibility needs. Reach out with questions about games, platforms, or adaptive hardware.
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