Assessing Accessibility in Tabletop Games for Inclusive Museum Experiences

Abstract

This research explores tabletop game accessibility in a museum setting, specifically for the "A World of Games" exhibition at Världskulturmuseet. The study began with an evaluation of the games on display, followed by a user study to identify accessibility challenges for visitors. Based on the results, we developed solutions aimed at making the games more inclusive, particularly for blind individuals and young children. One key solution was an image recognition app for the game Mekuri, designed to help players with colour blindness and cognitive impairments. A second round of testing was carried out to assess the effectiveness of these solutions. The research led to the creation of guidelines for making board games in museum exhibitions more accessible. These guidelines are meant to benefit not only future exhibitions at Världskulturmuseet but also other teams working on similar projects. While teams like Meeple Like Us have made important contributions to board game accessibility, this research focuses specifically on the unique challenges of game exhibitions, where factors such as game length, waiting activities, lighting, and space layout need to be considered. The solutions we offer aim to make the museum experience more inclusive for everyone, regardless of ability. Finally, the study outlines future directions for expanding and refining these accessibility solutions.