A recent tweet by a Pokémon Go player has sparked a debate about the accessibility of the game for players with disabilities. The tweet, which was meant to mock hackers, ironically shared an “exploit” for hatching eggs by explaining how to walk. However, some players with disabilities felt that the joke was in poor taste and excluded them from the game.
One player, who has mobility impairments, criticized the tweet for mocking players with disabilities and expressed their disappointment as a parent of a soon-to-be wheelchair-bound child. They called it a “big L” (loss) on the part of the player who made the joke.
The player who made the tweet defended themselves, stating that they did not intend to mock anyone with disabilities, but rather cheaters who exploit the game’s features. This sparked a debate among fans, with some arguing that the game should be inclusive and accessible to all players, regardless of their abilities.
This conversation reflects previous debates within the Pokémon Go community, particularly regarding the developer’s focus on in-person play. While the addition of the Campfire feature was welcomed, changes such as doubling the price of Remote Raid Passes and adding a daily use limit made the game less accessible for players with disabilities or those in remote areas.
Despite the backlash, the developer has not reversed these changes and continues to prioritize in-person play. This direction is evident with the introduction of Elite Raids and other upcoming features. It seems unlikely that the accessibility concerns raised by players will be addressed in the near future.
Overall, the debate highlights the importance of considering the needs of players with disabilities and ensuring that the game remains accessible to all. Pokémon Go has the potential to bring joy and entertainment to a wide range of players, and it is crucial that the developer takes steps to include and accommodate everyone.
Source: DOTESPORTS
