Marvel's Avengers will "reflect the diversity of the real world" says Crystal Dynamics

Marvel's Avengers will "reflect the diversity of the real world" says Crystal Dynamics

By Heidi Nicholas, 29 May 2020
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Crystal Dynamics has shared more information on its efforts towards accessibility and inclusion in Marvel's Avengers, including accessibility features and their goals for post-launch accessibility improvements.

Senior Community & Social Media Manager Meagan Marie says they consulted accessibility specialist Cherry Thompson for "early feedback" on the game, and that they were "a huge resource" when discussing representation. "Our goal is to normalise representation within our game world by reflecting the diversity of the real world," continues Marie. "We have scenes in the game like A-Day which is essentially a comic book convention - having representation in a crowd of people who are all there sharing a passion for superheroes is important to us." Thompson also did some idle motion capture in their wheelchair for an NPC named Cerise, "to help idle movements feel more organic". Marie adds that their aim is for a "holistic approach" about accessibility for the game. "Our efforts are for both the game; but we also want everyone to enjoy social content, events, and other services with as few barriers as possible."

Although Crystal Dynamics couldn't discuss all accessibility features that will be available at launch, Game Designer Mariah Robinson says they "have lots of incredible features lined up" including "fully remappable controls, character-associated subtitles, campaign-relevant closed captions, and HARM Training Rooms." Meagan adds that there will also be a "high contrast user interface" which "makes it easier to navigate for low-vision users or people who find some interfaces distracting and difficult to use".