Microsoft has announced that it is adding sign language support to its upcoming racing game, Forza Horizon 5. The new feature will allow players to communicate with one another using hand gestures and facial expressions. “We know that our fans are passionate about gaming and we want to make sure that they can fully enjoy Forza Horizon 5,” said Ralph Fulton, Creative Director at Playground Games. “Adding sign language support gives players the ability to communicate with each other in a unique way, and we can’t wait for them to try it out.” The addition of sign language support is the latest in a long line of updates for Forza Horizon 5. Earlier this year, the game was updated with new cars, tracks, and weather conditions. Additionally, there are now over 350 vehicles available for players to purchase and race. ..
“We should be able to access the same story beats and narrative components. Otherwise, we’re only getting half the picture and not getting the full experience. Including sign language is about enabling more deaf and hard-of-hearing people to have ownership over their gaming experience,” said Cameron Akitt, a consultant with Playground Games for sign language implementation.
Microsoft described the undertaking of adding both ASL and BLS in a blog post. The company said, “The update includes actors from the deaf and hard of hearing community signing in parts of the story between driving, such as jumping into challenges, getting ready for a race, meeting other players, and racing across Mexico while planes fly overhead.”
While this is a change that’ll only impact a small number of gamers, it’s nice to see Microsoft and developer Playground Games take the time to implement a feature that’ll let more players comfortably enjoy their game.
