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From Nintendo to interactive computer games, gaming is one of the world's most popular pastimes. However, if you have visual, auditory or physical disability, gaming can be inaccessible to you. Fortunately many gaming companies are beginning to develop assistive technology to make their games accessible for everyone.

Visual Disabilities
There are several assistive technologies that you can use to make video games accessible if you have visual impairments. The first assistive gaming technology that you can look for is a game that is compatible with your computer's reader or Braille interface program like VoiceOver. Next you can look for video games that allow you to adjust the size of the text used in the game, or that will allow you to adjust the color contrasts to make the images easier to see.

Auditory Disabilities
If you have an auditory impairment then you have a few options. Your first option is to select games that offer closed captioning. Your second option is to use a volume amplifier to help increase the volume to a range that you can hear. Your final option is to use a set of headphones that utilize background noise cancellation technology. This last option will help reduce background noise and auditory interference so that your video games are easier to hear.

Physical Disabilities
Physical disabilities can make video games inaccessible if you have difficulties gripping or if you have difficulties with fine motor skills. Fortunately, there are many modified joysticks that you can choose from. Some are designed for an easier grip, some are modified so the buttons are larger and easier to press, while others are designed to be operated with your mouth. If you don't have the use of your hands, feet or mouth, then there are special pointers that utilize your eye movements to guide the video game characters.

Finding Assistive Gaming Technology
The market for assistive gaming technology is still developing. However, there are several accessibility stores that offer a great selection of assistive technology devices including assistive gaming technology. You can also check out electronics stores and the gaming department of department stores to possibly find modified joysticks and accessible video games. Finally, if all else fails you can contact the game manufacturer to see if they also manufacture assistive gaming technology for their games, or if they know where you can find them.

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