Gaming for the deaf

AHarvey · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:12

Hi all,

Just hoping someone has some information or experience on gaming as a deaf / hard of hearing gamer.

I've attended a job interview for a visual impairment specialist company and they have asked me to look at any disability, a situation and put down ideas for overcoming the issues.

I've found a few bits and pieces over the web and I've considered using directional sound output from the game and translating that in to a visible overlay for the game. Anyone know of anything similar out there already?

Or other solutions?

Sega Mega Dave · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:14

http://rog.asus.com/technology/rog-sound-innovations/sonic-radar/

AHarvey · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:21

ooo nice one, thanks

Sega Mega Dave · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:22

I think it only works with certain Asus boards though you would have to check. Also doesn't support every game.

Psymonkee · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:29

I'm pretty sure Valve re-worked the HL games to include closed captions which is a good starting point!

MissChief · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:31

Most games, at least for spoken parts are usually quite good with an option for subtitles in nearly every game I've seen recently. Where it does let people down is for the sound effects. Many games rely on sound to purvey atmosphere or danger and this is lost without it. It's an area where many developers could do more I think.

Mynight · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:33

Rumble pad for your backside? 4 different zones in the corners could give a physical clue where sound is coming from.

Kosmiche · 13 Apr 2015 at 20:34

You mean like the screen getting bloody in a fps game in the bottom if youre shot from behind for example?