Xbox and Industry Leaders Launch New Initiative for Accessible Gaming

Empowering Players with Accessibility

At XBOX, we believe that gaming should be an experience for everyone. Our mission? To empower as many players as possible to dive into the games they love, alongside friends and family, wherever they are, and in a way that suits their unique needs. This includes the staggering 429 million players living with some form of disability. For many of these gamers, having the right accessibility hardware—like the recently launched Xbox Adaptive Joystick—can make all the difference in enjoying their favorite titles.

But let’s be real: navigating the world of accessibility features in video games can feel like deciphering a foreign language. It’s not always easy to find consistent terminology across different games, which can be frustrating when you’re just trying to figure out what works best for you. That’s why back in November 2021, Xbox introduced the Game Accessibility Feature Tags—a step towards creating a more inclusive gaming environment.

Joining Forces for Greater Impact

Fast forward to the Game Developers Conference (GDC), where Xbox took a giant leap forward by teaming up with industry giants like Electronic Arts, Google, Nintendo of America, and Ubisoft. Together, we proudly announced our participation in the new Accessible Games Initiative, spearheaded by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). This initiative aims to provide players with clear, concise information about accessibility features in video games through a standardized set of “tags.” Imagine being able to browse games and instantly know which accessibility features they offer before you hit that purchase button!

To avoid any confusion, Xbox will be transitioning our existing Game Accessibility Feature Tags to align with the new Accessible Games Initiative tags. Don’t worry—any tags that don’t have an equivalent in the new system will still be available on our platform. This means players with disabilities will have an even easier time discovering their next favorite game and understanding the accessibility features it offers.

A Collaborative Approach to Inclusion

We’re genuinely excited to be part of the Accessible Games Initiative. We’re not just sharing our existing knowledge; we’re also learning from our partners to create something truly valuable for the gaming community. Each step we take toward inclusion is a step toward greater standardization of accessibility in games. It’s our hope that this collaborative effort sends a strong message across the industry: accessibility is not just an add-on; it’s a vital part of the gaming experience that connects people, brings joy, and fosters community.

We also hope this initiative inspires game developers to think beyond just implementing tags. Imagine the possibilities if they start building more accessibility features into their games from the ground up! Xbox is actively working with developers around the globe to integrate Accessible Games Initiative tags into participating titles. Once everything is in place, players will be able to find both sets of tags across various digital Xbox platforms.

What’s Next?

In the meantime, players can check out the Accessible Games Initiative website for detailed descriptions of each tag. With these new tags, you won’t have to guess what they mean for each game. Instead, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect before making a purchase. So, stay tuned! We’re just getting started, and there’s a lot more exciting news on the horizon.

Background Information

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About Google:

Google, founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin in 1998, is a multinational technology company known for its internet-related services and products. Initially for its search engine, Google has since expanded into various domains including online advertising, cloud computing, software development, and hardware devices. With its innovative approach, Google has introduced influential products such as Google Search, Android OS, Google Maps, and Google Drive. The company's commitment to research and development has led to advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

  

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About Nintendo:

Nintendo, a important Japanese multinational consumer electronics and video game company, has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Established in 1889, Nintendo has evolved from producing playing cards to becoming a gaming giant that has introduced some of the most beloved and enduring franchises in the industry, including Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. With a rich history of innovation, Nintendo has consistently pushed boundaries, leading to the creation of iconic gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch, which offers a unique hybrid gaming experience.

  

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About Ubisoft:

Ubisoft is a important video game company that was founded in 1986 in France by the Guillemot brothers: Christian, Claude, Gérard, Michel, and Yves. The company is known for developing and publishing a wide range of popular video game franchises, including Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six, and Watch Dogs. Ubisoft is recognized for its commitment to delivering immersive and engaging gaming experiences across multiple platforms, from consoles and PCs to mobile devices.

  

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