Innovating Inclusivity in Gaming with "Moving Out".

The Challenge

The gaming industry has long faced challenges in creating inclusive experiences for players of all abilities. Many popular games often overlook accessibility, making it difficult for individuals with disabilities to fully engage and enjoy the gaming experience. Recognizing this gap, SMG Studio and DevM Games aimed to create a game that would not only entertain but also be accessible to a diverse audience.

With the goal of launching a family-friendly, multiplayer game that could be enjoyed by everyone, the challenge was twofold: to design engaging gameplay while ensuring inclusivity in representation and mechanics. This meant creating a game that could accommodate various play styles and abilities without compromising on fun or creativity.

The Solution

SMG Studio and DevM Games partnered with the renowned games publisher Team17 to develop "Moving Out," a chaotic couch co-op moving simulator. The game was designed with a clear vision of inclusivity and accessibility, featuring more than 50 colourful, imaginative levels that encouraged teamwork and creativity. The solution involved several key components:

1. Inclusive Design and Representation:
   "Moving Out" allowed players to choose from a diverse range of characters, including options for characters represented in wheelchairs. This design decision was a critical step toward creating a gaming environment where all players could see themselves represented. The goal was to ensure that everyone could participate in the fun, regardless of their physical abilities.
2. Accessible Gameplay Mechanics:
   The game incorporated various gameplay mechanics designed to cater to different abilities. Players could customize controls and adjust settings to make the game more playable for their specific needs. This focus on accessibility meant that players could engage with the game on their terms, enhancing the overall experience and encouraging wider participation.
3. Engaging Multiplayer Experience:
   "Moving Out" was designed as a couch co-op experience, allowing friends and families to play together. The fun, chaotic nature of moving furniture with friends created an environment ripe for laughter and teamwork, making it an ideal choice for players looking for a fun and social gaming experience.
4. Cross-Platform Release:
   To maximise accessibility, "Moving Out" was released simultaneously across all major gaming platforms—Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Steam. This broad release strategy ensured that players could access the game on their preferred devices, further enhancing its reach and appeal.

The Results

The launch of "Moving Out" was met with enthusiasm and praise from both players and critics alike. The game quickly became a commercial success, selling over 500,000 digital copies worldwide. Key results included:

1. Wide Acceptance and Engagement:
   The game's focus on inclusivity resonated with players, leading to a robust player community. The combination of fun gameplay, colorful graphics, and accessible design drew in players of all ages and abilities, promoting engagement and long-term interest.
2. Critical Acclaim and Awards:
   "Moving Out" received numerous accolades, most notably winning the Game of the Year award at the Australian Game Developer Awards in 2020. This recognition underscored the game's innovative approach to accessibility and inclusiveness, setting a new standard in the industry.
3. Impressive Gameplay Metrics:
   Players made over 20 million moves in the game, showcasing its addictive gameplay and the enjoyment players found in navigating the chaotic world of moving. The high engagement levels demonstrated the success of the game’s design in capturing player interest.
4. Community Building:
   The game fostered a strong community, encouraging players to share their experiences and creative solutions to the game’s challenges. This sense of community further solidified "Moving Out" as a go-to choice for family and friends looking for a cooperative gaming experience.