Video Game Accessibility Services
At Accessibility Labs, video game accessibility is our expertise. Our team has decades of experience in the games industry. We test how games work at every stage of development. We work close with developers to build smart, practical solutions.
Our Test Passes
We offer a range of test passes to support different stages of development.
Pilot Pass: Early Planning
A Pilot Pass is an early-stage evaluation during pre-alpha or alpha development. Pilot passes focus on feature planning and identifying early barriers. Addressing these factors early helps avoid costly revisions and late-stage adjustments.
CVAA: Communication Compliance
A Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) Pass evaluates communication features. We test text chat, voice chat, text-to-speech, and speech-to-text. We also test screens required to communicate such as user setup and settings. Compliance with CVAA is required for games sold in the United States. Non-compliance results in direct fines.
For more details, see our CVAA Compliance Services or the FCC’s guide on “Accessibility of Communications in Video Games”.
Accessible Games Initiative Tags
The Accessible Games Initiative standardized 24 accessibility tags. Each tag represents a feature such as “Multiple Volume Controls”, “Difficulty Levels”, and “Camera Comfort.” During our test pass, we use the initiative’s Developer Facing Requirements. We verify tag accuracy for your game’s store listing.
By highlighting accessibility tags, you enhance your players’ purchasing decisions. Pair this with our Website Assessment Service, to enhance usability for your online buyers.
Our Process
- Discovery: We begin by understanding your project’s goals, style, and unique challenges. Our team integrates into your existing workflow and can operate directly within your database.
- Assessment: We evaluate gameplay, UI, and communication systems to identify usability issues. All issues (“bugs”) are tracked and reported using your team’s established formatting.
- Detailed Reporting and Guidance: We deliver clear, actionable reports with categorized issues, supporting accessibility context, and recommendations.
- Support: We provide ongoing consultations and verify fixes to ensure improvements are properly implemented and tested.
Why Choose Accessibility Labs?
- Proven Expertise: Our team has worked on a wide variety of titles including Halo Infinite, Diablo IV, and God of War. We have expertise across AAA, indie, and mobile gaming. We are versed in platform-specific requirements for Xbox, PlayStation, and other platforms.
- Collaborative Support: Our recommendations are clear and actionable. Your team’s developers can focus on implementation rather than interpreting feedback.
- Comprehensive Approach: We go beyond checklists. We consider real-world usability to enhance player experience.
Accessibility is more than compliance, it’s about creating unforgettable experiences for players regardless of ability. Partner with Accessibility Labs to refine your game, increase market appeal, and deliver quality to a wide audience.
