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Rewriting the rules of Neurodiverse Gaming
A critical reflection on how video games represent and include neurodiversity, emphasizing authentic voices and inclusive design.
In recent years, the concept of neurodiversity has found a prominent place in societal discourse. It acknowledges that people think, feel, act, and communicate in diverse ways, with no single approach being inherently superior or more desirable than another. While this recognition is gaining ground, questions remain about how it translates into cultural practices, particularly in the realm of video games.
A recent dissertation, of University of Antwerp, department of philosophy researcher Lisanne Meinen, examines this very intersection, exploring how games can contribute to our understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in morally responsible ways. Yet, the inquiry, while ambitious, leaves space for critical reflection on its scope and assumptions.
This article delves into the promises and pitfalls of such an approach, offering an autistic perspective on the potential of games as both mirrors and disruptors of societal norms.
Games are a cultural medium unlike any other. Their immersive, interactive nature allows players not…
