Video games are a fun and exciting way for people to engage with each other and explore new worlds. But have you ever considered how video games can be made more accessible for the Deaf community? In this blog, we will explore the relationship between video games and sign language, including examples of games that have incorporated sign language, games that could benefit from Deaf characters, and the importance of inclusive representation in video games.
One game that stands out for its use of sign language is “The Quiet Man” by Human Head Studios. This game tells the story of a Deaf protagonist who communicates through American Sign Language (ASL) with other Deaf characters. The game features live-action cutscenes with both speech and sign language, making it a truly immersive experience for both Deaf and hearing players. The Quiet Man is a great example of how sign language can be used to create a deeper level of immersion and storytelling in video games.
“Moss” by Polyarc is another game that features sign language. In the game, players control a small mouse named Quill as she navigates through a fantasy world filled with dangerous creatures and ancient magic. The game includes a character named Argus, who is a deaf-mute and communicates with Quill through sign language. The use of sign language in “Moss” not only adds to the game’s immersive storytelling, but also provides a level of representation for deaf and hard-of-hearing players.
While these examples show how sign language can be incorporated into video games, there is still a lot of work to be done to make video games more inclusive for the Deaf community. Many games still rely heavily on audio cues or rely on subtitles for dialogue, which can be difficult for Deaf players to follow. For example, the game “The Last of Us Part II” by Naughty Dog features a Deaf character named Lev, but the game doesn’t fully utilise his Deafness beyond subtitles and visual cues. This missed opportunity to feature a Deaf character in a more meaningful way demonstrates the need for better representation in video games.
In conclusion, video games have the potential to be a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and understanding. Incorporating sign language into games is a great way to create deeper connections between characters and players, while also promoting awareness and understanding of the Deaf community. With more effort and creativity, we can work towards a future where video games are more inclusive for all.