Valve's recent update to Steam marks a significant advancement in making gaming more inclusive by introducing detailed accessibility tags for games. This initiative allows developers to specify the accessibility features their games support, enabling players to make informed choices based on their individual needs.
Overview of the Update
In April 2025, Valve announced the addition of accessibility tags to game listings on Steam. These tags are designed to help players identify games that offer specific accessibility features, such as adjustable difficulty levels, customizable text sizes, alternative color schemes, and narrated menus. Developers can now input this information through a new questionnaire available in the Steamworks "edit store" section. Once completed, these details will be displayed on the game's store page and integrated into Steam's search filters, allowing users to find games that meet their accessibility requirements. (caniplaythat.com)
Categories of Accessibility Features
The accessibility features are categorized into four main groups:
- Gameplay Options: Includes adjustable difficulty settings and the ability to save progress at any point.
- Audio Features: Covers custom volume controls and narrated game menus.
- Visual Features: Encompasses adjustable text sizes, subtitle options, and alternative color schemes.
- Input Options: Offers support for various control methods, including keyboard-only, mouse-only, and touch-only options, as well as chat speech-to-text and text-to-speech functionalities. (app2top.com)
Valve has provided developers with an Accessibility Feature Wizard to guide them through the process of identifying and tagging their games' accessibility features. This tool offers descriptions and criteria for each feature, simplifying the tagging process. While participation is optional, Valve strongly encourages developers to utilize this system to enhance the discoverability of their games among players with specific accessibility needs. (caniplaythat.com)
Impact on the Gaming Community
This update is a response to feedback from both developers and players with disabilities, aiming to create a more inclusive gaming environment. By making accessibility information readily available, Steam empowers players to make informed decisions and encourages developers to consider accessibility in their game design. As more developers adopt these tags, the gaming community can expect a broader selection of games that cater to diverse needs, fostering a more inclusive and enjoyable gaming experience for all.
In summary, Valve's introduction of accessibility tags on Steam represents a significant step toward inclusivity in gaming. By providing clear and detailed information about accessibility features, Steam enhances the gaming experience for players with disabilities and sets a new standard for transparency and inclusivity in the gaming industry.
Source: Windows Report Valve’s New Steam Update Puts Accessibility Info Up Front
