Community Post: HandiGamers - When Video Games Truly Become For Everyone
- Redazione ForAllWe
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
In the gaming world, talking about accessibility is no longer an option: it's a necessity. This is demonstrated by the experience of HandiGamers , a French association founded to ensure that every person with a disability can play video games independently, enjoy themselves, and enjoy equal opportunities. We had the pleasure of interviewing them to learn more about their mission, projects, and the challenges they face.
An idea born from a real need
HandiGamers was founded in 2019 by Théo Jordan and David Combarieu . It all started with a personal goal: to find a technical solution that would allow Théo, then a quadriplegic gamer, to return to playing as he had always done. During their research, the founders realized a surprising reality: the video game industry did not offer adequate solutions for gamers with motor disabilities . Hence the decision to build an association that would transform this individual experience into a collective opportunity.
Today, the name HandiGamers perfectly captures this identity: “handi,” short for handicap, and “gamers,” because gaming is the starting and finishing point.
Mission: to include, inform, innovate
The association promotes clear values: inclusion , accessibility , and equal dignity in the gaming world. Their main activities include:
advice and information for players and families on solutions for adapting gaming to motor disabilities;
animations and workshops in hospitals or specialized centers to offer inclusive play sessions;
training aimed at professionals — educators, therapists and entertainers — to provide appropriate skills and tools;
financing and supply of adapted materials for associations and structures.
A landmark project: Paris Games Week 2025
Among the most significant initiatives was participation in Paris Games Week 2025 , in the "Jouez comme vous êtes" space organized by CAPGAME. HandiGamers created an accessible stand, open to everyone, where visitors could try out adapted hardware, receive information, and discuss concrete solutions for more inclusive gaming.
The result? A steady influx of visitors , many new connections, and proof that interest in video game accessibility is no longer a niche issue, but a central theme for contemporary gaming.
Stories that make a difference
Among the many personal journeys supported by the association, one in particular best represents the spirit of HandiGamers: that of Yannick . One of the first gamers to ask for support in 2018, Yannick continues to benefit from the innovations offered by the association and this year was able to realize a dream: starting to stream his games on Twitch , using adapted material and the Playability software .
You can watch one of his streams here: 👉 HERE
The association has also collected numerous significant moments documented online, including:
These contents tell true stories of inclusion, innovation, and passion for gaming.
Future challenges: knowledge, communication and open source
HandiGamers is now expanding its dialogue with healthcare and social-education professionals, aiming to raise awareness about video game accessibility. Many technical projects can be shared through Fab Lab networks , in open source mode, allowing associations to independently build the necessary adaptations.
A vision that goes beyond simple technical support: creating an aware, autonomous and participatory community .
The role of digital: possibilities becoming reality
According to HandiGamers, digital can and must help the gaming world become more inclusive. Esports events, trade shows, and publishers should integrate accessible solutions into their exhibition spaces.
Thanks to the evolutionary configurations made possible by the Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo ecosystems, it is now technically easier to offer solutions that can adapt to any type of disability.
A message to the developer community
HandiGamers is extending a direct invitation to developers, makers, and tech enthusiasts: with 3D printing and accessible electronics, anyone can help improve the lives of gamers with disabilities.
Existing projects, freely shared online, represent a starting point for those who want to make a real impact in their local area.
A mission enclosed in a hashtag
Their philosophy can be summed up in a simple and powerful message:
#TousGamers – #TuttiGiocatori - # HandiGamers
Because video games are culture, sociality, and emotion. And they should belong to everyone.
Contacts & Online References
🌐 Website link: https://handigamers.com/
EDITOR'S NOTE: ForAllWe supports inclusion projects without commercial gain. The testimonials reported are shared with the consent of those interviewed.
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