When it comes to game accessibility you would probably think of the myriad of accessibility features built into AAA games, such as Spider-Man 2. But often, it can feel like accessibility options in big games are more of an added feature. Rather than a design choice from the very early stages of development.
BLINNK And the Vacuum of Space from Glasgow-based developer Changingday has been designed as an accessible game. It includes many features to help Autistic players get the most from the game.
A game designed for Autistic players
Changingday’s upcoming VR adventure BLINNK and the Vacuum of Space aims to be accessible and fun for all PS VR2 players. The game comes packed with Autism-friendly features so that Autistic players can get the most from their VR experience.
Changingday and their game were featured on a BBC News segment called ‘How can gaming be made more accessible?’ You can view the video below and it provides more details on how BLINNK and the Vacuum of Space helps Autistic gamers.
Changingday is headed by Alison and Nick Lang who have an Autistic daughter. They want to harness VR to create experiences for players like her. BLINNK and the Vacuum of Space is their debut game and is the culmination of six years of work.
An intergalactic adventure
BLINNK and the Vacuum of Space sounds like it is going to be a lot of fun for all PS VR2 players. The inclusive, immersive virtual world features stunning visuals, charming characters and engaging gameplay, all meticulously designed to be positive, enjoyable and stress-free. It’s fun, funny and full of memorable moments.
The game is set on Norpopolis Space Station, where the mischievous Groobs have escaped in an unfortunate lab accident – and are now causing chaos! Using your trusty Vacuumizer 5000, your task is to recapture them before your boss, Mr Norp, finds out. You will travel through the space station helping the Norpopoleans complete various tasks while earning Norp Bucks along the way.
Accessibility at its heart
The game comes with many cool, accessible features to help players of all abilities enjoy the game to the fullest. The features include a no-fail state so you can explore the virtual world at your own pace without fear of failure. This helps reduce anxiety and promotes a sense of accomplishment.
If you feel that you need to take a break from the game, BLINNK includes a really cool feature where you won’t even have to take off your headset. Simply hit the smartwatch to arrive at The Fold, a cool, tranquil area where you can relax until you’re ready to return to the action.
We believe that gaming should be for everyone, and BLINNK embodies that principle
BLINNK will also have in-depth accessibility options that can be fine-tuned to suit your sensitivities. You can adjust things like colour, sound and other elements to make your experience more comfortable.
And of course, BLINNK and the Vacuum of Space will take full advantage of the PS VR2’s technology to create a seamless and joyous experience.
“We are thrilled to introduce BLINNK and the Vacuum of Space to the world. Autistic people love playing video games, but games are not always designed for them – the colours can be too bright, the noises too loud, the gameplay too confusing,” says Alison, CEO at Changingday. “BLINNK is designed from the ground up for autistic players, based on considerable research about what games they enjoy, what they find challenging and what features they would like. We believe that gaming should be for everyone, and BLINNK embodies that principle.”
When does BLINNK and the Vaccum of Space come to PS VR2?
BLINNK and the Vaccum of Space comes to PlayStation VR2 next week, on the 10th of October. You can wishlist it right now on the PlayStation Store. And make sure to check out the PS VR2 launch trailer below.
BLNNK looks and sounds like it is going to be a fantastic addition to the PS VR2’s roster of games. The game impresses with its wealth of accessibility features and its friendly and inclusive gameplay.
Make sure to check out BLINNK and the Vaccum of Space when it launches next week on PS VR2.
