With less than three months remaining until the highly anticipated release of Bethesda's Starfield, fans are expressing concerns over the lack of information regarding the game's accessibility features. Disabled gamers have greatly benefited from the growing inclusion of accessibility features in modern gaming, and many players are eager to see if Starfield follows this positive trend.
Last month, Bethesda unveiled an extensive hour-long Starfield Direct presentation, showcasing the myriad features the game has to offer. Fans were treated to a glimpse of the combat mechanics, spaceship customization, interplanetary travel, and even the ability to pilfer sandwiches from enemy vessels and stash them in their own inventory. However, despite the considerable amount of footage showcased, the Direct and subsequent announcements have failed to address the accessibility options within the game. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether any accessibility options are available at all.
According to IGN, the lack of information from Bethesda regarding Starfield's accessibility features has raised concerns among disabled players about their ability to actually enjoy the game. One such player is Kolo Jones, who suffers from ADHD and spondyloarthritis, a condition that causes inflammation in the spine and makes it difficult for her to grip controllers. Given her circumstances, Jones requires clear "quest markers" to navigate through the various planets in Starfield, along with additional support for twin-stick movement and button presses. Although Jones is eagerly anticipating the game, the necessity of using both thumbsticks and multiple buttons in the traditional manner may potentially prevent her from being able to play it.
Regrettably, Bethesda games have a track record of lacking in accessibility features, which Matthew Allcock, a disabled gamer, unfortunately experienced. Prior to his affliction with nystagmus, a disability characterized by rapid, repetitive eye movements, Allcock used to enjoy playing Bethesda titles such as Fallout and Skyrim. However, as his disability progressed, it became increasingly challenging for him to continue playing due to the difficulties in locating enemies, finding objects, and navigating the game map. Allcock holds onto the hope that Starfield will deviate from this pattern and incorporate the necessary features to enable him to derive enjoyment from the game.
In recent years, there has been a surge of exceptional video games that boast excellent accessibility features, with game companies doing an outstanding job of catering to the needs of those requiring additional assistance. Although implementing these features is not always a straightforward task, it is hoped that Starfield will join the ranks of these remarkable titles for disabled gamers later this year.
Starfield launches September 6 for PC and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: IGN