Deconstructing the data.

To gain insight into the experiences of mobile gamers with disabilities, the researchers aimed to understand the factors contributing to the adaptability and accessibility of mobile games. They defined "adaptable" as modifications made by the player to facilitate gameplay, which may be less comfortable and often unintentional. In contrast, "accessible" referred to intentional design features within the game that promote inclusivity and enhance the comfort of disabled players.

Struggles and Frustrations

The researchers identified significant pain points reported by participants regarding the lack of settings for specific or granular aspects of gameplay. Notably, 50% of participants expressed a desire for more readily available audio and visual settings in mobile games. Suggestions for personal interface adjustments, clearer communication channels, and better distinction between various elements emphasized the needs of players with visual, hearing, and intellectual disabilities—needs crucial for their continued engagement with mobile games.

Players who were unable to adjust their visual or auditory experiences were significantly more likely to abandon the game in question and were less inclined to explore other titles from the same studio or series.

Additionally, participants reported a limited diversity of options for modifying mobile game interfaces and controls. The researchers noted a significant gap in providing players the ability to customize settings upon game launch; very few mobile games offer immediate voice-overs to guide users through menu screens. Furthermore, pre-play settings, such as screen adjustments and options for lighting or contrast, were often lacking. Most mobile games tend to immerse players directly into gameplay scenarios without allowing access to settings until after a tutorial has concluded.

Intervention with Accessibility Technology.

The researchers observed that mobile gaming has become one of the most accessible forms of gaming for users. With the rise of smartphones, the number of people using dedicated handheld consoles, such as the Nintendo Switch or PlayStation Portable, has significantly declined. A key attraction of mobile gaming is its simplicity, as users do not need external peripherals, like controllers, to enjoy these games.

While many mobile games support the use of external controllers or keyboards via Bluetooth, they are primarily designed to operate using on-screen or haptic controls. However, for players with disabilities, these control methods can be challenging or, in some cases, entirely inaccessible. Such players often rely on assistive technology or customized peripherals to engage with their favorite mobile games.

Contrary to the common assumption that mobile gamers do not use peripherals, the researchers found that many of the players interviewed expressed a preference for, and appreciation of, the option to use peripherals with their mobile games. For some players, peripherals were not merely a preference but a necessity, particularly for those with disabilities such as limb loss, limited fine motor skills, or restricted finger movement.

Whether due to the small size of mobile screens, the need for additional support in control configurations, or innovative solutions—such as directional lighting devices offering a secondary communication channel and flexible display options for players who are hard of hearing—many participants emphasized the importance of peripherals. They provided various reasons and suggestions for why they require or benefit from peripheral support to enhance their regular gaming experience.