I would not call myself a video game person by any means, but there are several games and franchises I get lost in and enjoy playing. That being said, I wish more video games had disabled characters, adding a realistic element to games. It would allow players with disabilities to see themselves reflected in the virtual world and would promote a greater understanding and empathy among players. Integrating disabled characters would contribute to a more realistic and immersive gaming experience by accurately portraying individuals’ diverse range of abilities and challenges in real life. Game developers must strive for inclusivity and consider the representation of disabled characters to create a more inclusive gaming landscape.

A personal favorite game of mine, the Sims series, would benefit from such expansions. I know there are mods and custom content to add disabled characters. However, it should be a part of the original custom content. The Sims series already adds non-binary characters with tons of customization; why not add disabilities as an option? In addition, I would love to see the Sims create a way for disabled characters to build versions of themselves, move about in the world, and build ramps and other accessible options for their house.

While I can’t speak for the entire disabled community, these additions would impact my gameplay and add representation and realism to the world. To have a character that you play with/as in a game like the Sims be like yourself is essential and would make a realistic game even more real. People come in many different abilities, and having that customization feature would be huge, especially for a game that prides itself on diversity.