How Users Who are Blind or Low Vision Play Mobile Games: Perceptions, Challenges, and Strategies

2025-02-14

AI Summary

Prior accessibility research in gaming has predominantly focused on console and PC platforms, neglecting the unique challenges and opportunities of mobile gaming for blind and low-vision (BLV) users. Method: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 32 experienced BLV mobile gamers, followed by thematic coding and cross-case comparative analysis to develop a three-dimensional “motivation–barrier–strategy” framework. Contribution/Results: The study identifies three primary motivational drivers—boredom alleviation, achievement pursuit, and social connection—as well as multi-layered accessibility barriers. It further presents the first systematic examination of smartphone-native accessibility features (e.g., speech output, haptic feedback, screen reader integration) and their distinctive advantages in mobile gaming contexts. Based on empirical findings, we propose 12 actionable, developer-oriented accessibility guidelines—bridging the gap between inclusive design principles and practical implementation in mobile game development.

Technology Category

• Humans and AI: AI for Accessibility
• Application Domains: Mobility, Driving & Flight
• Computer Vision: Low Level & Physics-based Vision

Application Category

• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: Metrics for user behavior and evaluating success
• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy
• Search and Retrieval-Augmented AI: Web evaluation methodologies and metrics

Abstract

As blind and low-vision (BLV) players engage more deeply with games, accessibility features have become essential. While some research has explored tools and strategies to enhance game accessibility, the specific experiences of these players with mobile games remain underexamined. This study addresses this gap by investigating how BLV users experience mobile games with varying accessibility levels. Through interviews with 32 experienced BLV mobile players, we explore their perceptions, challenges, and strategies for engaging with mobile games. Our findings reveal that BLV players turn to mobile games to alleviate boredom, achieve a sense of accomplishment, and build social connections, but face barriers depending on the game's accessibility level. We also compare mobile games to other forms of gaming, highlighting the relative advantages of mobile games, such as the inherent accessibility of smartphones. This study contributes to understanding BLV mobile gaming experiences and provides insights for enhancing accessible mobile game design.

Problem

• Explores BLV users' mobile gaming experiences.
• Identifies challenges and strategies for BLV players.
• Evaluates accessibility levels in mobile games.

Innovation

• interviews with BLV players
• mobile game accessibility levels
• enhancing accessible game design