During my 24-week immersive UX/UI design program, I needed to do something else to rewire my brains. The first two phases (out of 5) were comparatively easy going as it was part-time. Once I got into the third phase of the UX/UI Bootcamp, the work environment changed drastically. I needed a quick getaway from collaborating remotely with other UI designers and working on a client project with a five-hour time difference. So I kept aside thirty minutes a day to unwind.
I’m usually not a big fan of video/mobile games, but I fell in love with Among Us by Innersloth. One feature (I’m sure this is why the game became so popular in 2020) that got my attention was interaction amongst the players. Despite the time zone, I interacted with a complete stranger behind the screen while sharing the same goal: spotting out the imposter and completing the given tasks. While most of my friends hoped to play as an imposter, I enjoyed being a crew member completing the tasks. My least favorite of all tasks was those that require time, like downloading data or fixing wirings.
Fixing the wires in the electrical room sounds easy, but it gets repetitive, and at times when I misplace the wire, I have to start over again with an underlying fear of imposter(s) chasing after me. Another point that bothered me was that these wires were only color-coded, giving people with visual impairment a hard time. After a couple of weeks, I gradually shifted my interest towards skimming through Netflix when unwinding the day.
A month or so have passed and the Among Us app needed to be updated to play. After the update, I spotted some significant updates on accessibility. The crew member didn’t have to rely solemnly on color coding to fix the wirings!
Among Us designers at Innersloth added these cute little shapes next to each color, providing inclusive guidance for all.
Another good news from Innersloth: they are diverting their plan of action of launching a sequel to Among Us into elaborating the existing game by focusing in on the details. I can’t wait to see all the new updates and hopefully, all industries take similar measure to ensure inclusivity for all.
