Kakao Games, a South Korean video game developer and publisher, has expanded access to gaming for people with disability through a three-year initiative providing 608 customized assistive devices to 96 individuals. The results were presented recently in January at the ‘Together Play Buddy Excellence Case Presentation 2025’ at Kakao’s AI Campus in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province.
The project offers tailored devices, including the Tobii Eye Tracker 5, QuadStick Mouse, and Chin Plus Mouse, enabling people with physical disability to play games using eye movement, head motion, chin movement, or breath control. Participants emphasised that the devices go beyond entertainment, serving as a way to reconnect with society. One player, CK, who became paralysed after an accident, described how the devices helped him regain social interaction, compete online, and pursue education and creative projects.
Kakao Games estimated the social value of the initiative at roughly 710 million won over three years, highlighting benefits for both players and their caregivers. The project reflects a growing global focus on game accessibility, with industry leaders in the U.S. and Europe incorporating adaptive controllers and accessibility standards.
Domestically, Korean companies have begun formalising accessibility practices. Smilegate and NCSoft have developed guidelines, hired disability testers, and implemented accessibility features in games and apps, aiming to make inclusive gaming a standard industry practice.
To find out more, please read msn’s article on Kakao Games launching custom assistive devices for people with disability.