When the press material came through on SpecialEffect’s new Eye Gaze Games, my initial thoughts were panic, and that technology has advanced so much that Google Glass will be reinstated.
Instead, it’s a range of browser-based games that allows players to control the screen through a Windows Eye Gaze system. Mouse control is also supported by various configurations.
It’s not a gaming field I’m familiar with. The last specialist software I experienced related to those with ‘physical challenges’ (can’t we say disabilities any more?) was a BBC Micro or equivalent. What’s pretty fascinating is SpecialEffect can offer the likes of Minecraft using EyeMine, as well as support from the likes of EA, Rate and DoubleFine.
In the days of the Amiga, I used to visit a good friend with muscular dystrophy who would ask me to play the games for him as he was unable to operate the joystick. This sort of technology is wonderful, and my eyes are glossing over just thinking about it.
This is the first suite of online web games that enables eye gaze users to meet and play against anyone in the world, anonymously and on a level playing field… The games open up a new era of gaming inclusion for disabled players and represent a model for developers which highlights the additional enjoyment that can be gained from including gaze-control in their games.Dr Mick Donegan, CEO and Founder at SpecialEffect
There are currently eight games available in the Eye Gaze Games suite:
- Mole Miners
- 4-in-a-Row
- EyeDrive
- Chess
- Draughts (Checkers)
- Solitaire
- Sudoku
- Sudoku Monsters
Have a look at the Eye Gaze Games trailer below:
For more information, check out the official website.
