Accessibility isn’t just a concern of the three-dimensional world: it’s also important to websites and apps. And not just the “practical” ones. People with disabilities enjoy digital gaming as much as anybody; but some game apps still cause problems because they aren’t programmed for people with sight/hearing impairments, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty operating manual controls.
Fortunately, there are also many options for gamers of all abilities. Seven of these (four of which got five-star ratings from our reviewers) are highlighted on our BridgingApps Accessible Game Apps list.
Blackbox (five stars)
This iOS app generates a variety of challenging puzzles—and also helps the user learn about device features, many of which are used in the puzzle-solving processes. New users are introduced to the app via a tutorial, which then launches a starter set of easy puzzles. As new challenge levels are unlocked, puzzles get harder.
The app includes a store where players can buy access to puzzle hints, or make donations to the Blackbox developer.
Blind Drive (five stars)
Simulates driving a car while dodging oncoming traffic. There are 27 action levels, accompanied by humorous narrative.
Among the accessibility features is a speaker test, which automatically checks the audio when someone plays Blind Drive for the first time. (The app also checks and adjusts the sound for users with Bluetooth headphones, though it’s less compatible with device audio features such as iOS VoiceOver.) Other setting options include haptic feedback, captions, and a “blindfold mode” without visuals.
Dice World: Multiplayer Fun (five stars)
Includes six digital dice games (with tutorials) for one or two players:
- 1-4-24
- Balut
- Farkle
- Pig
- Threes
- Yatzy
Colors and sound effects are customizable; and if a player takes a break, the app will “hold” a game until the next move. Users can also connect with other Dice World players via person-to-person challenges, tournaments, and chat.
Heads Up! (five stars)
A charades app for in-person playing with fellow gamers. The rules are simple: one player holds the device to his or her forehead so everyone else can read what the app displays on the screen, but the device-holder can’t. Players describe the displayed words (called “cards”) verbally or through gestures: the holder has 60 seconds to guess as many words as possible (after each correct guess, the device is tipped forward to change the display). Includes a timer with an audible 10-second warning, and a recording feature for creating videos of “charader” performances.
Basic digital-card-deck packages are included with the app; additional decks can be purchased.
Users navigate an icon through various digital mazes, using either switches or a touchscreen. There are three levels (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced) with 12 mazes each. Bluetooth compatible.
Among the most accessible and versatile of gaming options, Overjoyed adapts games from various sources (PC, Xbox, Nintendo, PlayStation) to be controllable via mouse, trackpad, or eye-gaze software. Created by Our Odyssey, a nonprofit social-gaming organization for young adults with rare diseases.
The classic card game in digital format, with a world of new options including:
- 2v2 team mode
- Monthly rewards and events
- Real-time matches
- Organized tournaments
- UNO! clubs and chats
- Go Wild mode for people who love a no-holds-barred array of changing rules (and a little gambling in the mix)
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