ESA launches Accessible Games Initiative with support from industry leaders

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has launched the Accessible Games Initiative, a cross-industry effort to provide clear information on video game accessibility features. 

The initiative is supported by founding members Electronic Arts, Google, Microsoft, Nintendo of America, and Ubisoft. It will be managed by the ESA, representing the U.S. video game industry.

It aims to provide clear information on a game's accessibility features through 24 standardised tags, covering options like clear text, large subtitles, narrated menus, stick inversion, and save anytime.

Participating companies will display Accessible Games Initiative tags on digital storefronts and product pages, helping players, parents, and teachers easily identify a game's accessibility features before purchasing.

A collective effort 

Aside from the founding companies, the Accessible Games Initiative also received additional support from Amazon Games, Riot Games, Square Enix, and Warner Bros. Games. 

"Tens of millions of Americans have a disability and often face barriers to experiencing the joy and connection that comes with playing video games," said ESA president and CEO Stanley Pierre-Louis. 

“We are immensely proud to announce the Accessible Games Initiative in partnership with industry leaders. 

“This initiative demonstrates how impactful we can be when we work together in our industry-wide pursuit of helping more people experience the power of play."