The Future of Gaming Through the Lens of Accessibility

Episode Summary:

Join us on a journey through the pivotal realm of gaming and media accessibility with our special guests, Améliane Chiasson and Jenna. Améliane, an advocate for accessible gaming at Player Research, and Jenna, a live and interactive producer at Descriptive Video Works, share their insights on the challenges and triumphs of creating universally approachable digital content. Discover the innovative strides being made to cultivate a truly inclusive gaming environment.

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding Accessibility: Améliane unfolds the essence of accessibility in the digital world and its significance for diverse gamers.
• Championing Inclusivity: Learn about the intricate mechanisms that make games universally approachable and the dedication required to achieve this.
• Behind the Scenes: Jenna shares her transition from pharmaceuticals and the US Army to ensuring gaming is accessible for all.
• Advancing Accessibility: Amélianediscusses the launch of Player Research's new line of services aimed at helping developers deliver accessible experiences.
• Audio Description in Gaming: Jenna delves into the specialized niche of audio description for gaming, making visual media enjoyable for blind and low vision audiences.
• The Business Case for Accessibility: Améliane highlights the importance of considering accessibility early in game design to avoid unforeseen costs and backlash.
• Personal Journeys: Our guests share their unique paths to becoming accessibility specialists in the gaming industry.
• Accessible Games: Jenna lists games that are playable without vision and discusses the impact of audio description on the gaming experience.

What's New in Accessibility:

• Subtitles and Closed Captioning: Améliane emphasizes the importance of audio settings and equalizer options for a variety of accessibility needs.
• In-Game Audio Description: Jenna explains how audio description works in games and its benefits for a wider audience, including those with cognitive disabilities.

Listener's Corner:

• Breakfast Choices: Discover what fuels our guests for a day of advocating for accessibility.
• Travel Dreams: Améliane and Jenna share their dream vacation spots, from European cities to sailing on cruise lines.
• Gaming Confessions: Améliane admits to never having seen 'The Lord of the Rings', while Jenna and Greg share their current gaming obsessions.

Final Thoughts:

Accessibility in gaming is not just about doing the right thing; it's about opening up the world of gaming to everyone. Whether you're a developer, a gamer, or just someone interested in the field, there's always something new to learn and ways to contribute to a more inclusive gaming community.