For best friends Haddon Macdonald and Simon Ball, video games are more than just a pastime—they are a gateway to connection and competition. However, for Haddon, who lives with cerebral palsy, that gateway has been slowly closing. What began as a personal struggle to enjoy his favorite racing titles has transformed into a powerful advocacy movement: the "Make Gaming More Accessible For All" campaign.
The issue emerged around 2020, as the gaming industry shifted toward a reliance on conventional controllers. For a racing enthusiast like Haddon, who requires a steering wheel peripheral to navigate the digital track, the phasing out of specialized hardware support felt like a silent exclusion. When his letters to major gaming corporations went unanswered for years, Haddon decided it was time to turn a private frustration into a public cause.
Last June, Haddon teamed up with Simon, his friend of twenty-three years, to formalize their efforts. Since its launch in June 2025, the campaign has rapidly gained momentum. Simon spearheaded the digital infrastructure, establishing a Facebook presence and designing business cards to spread their message through the community. The duo has also taken their plea to the airwaves, appearing on "Radio Charlotte" and "Kennet Radio" to discuss the vital importance of inclusive design for those with limited hand or finger mobility.
The movement reached a new milestone this year with the launch of their official website,
accessiblegamingforall.co.uk. Built through a collaborative community effort, the site serves as a hub for resources and updates on their progress. Beyond awareness, the founders are seeking legislative change, currently hosting a formal petition on the UK Government Petitions website to demand industry-wide standards for accessibility.
Haddon and Simon’s story is a reminder that in the modern era of entertainment, technology should be a bridge, not a barrier. By advocating for the return of peripheral support and adaptable controls, they are ensuring that the joy of gaming remains open to everyone, regardless of physical ability. As they often tell their supporters: gaming is only truly great when everyone can play.
Vist
accessiblegamingforall.co.uk for more info.
