When you feel like life is out of control, taking control of your entertainment can be very liberating. Video gaming is active entertainment - your choices have a direct impact on your experience. Games can also be a lot of fun!

But playing some of the more complex computer games available requires skills that may need to be learned. Sometimes they also require abilities we may not all have. Try starting out with games that give you just enough challenge to be fun. Then you can proceed to more complex games when you get bored.

Here is DiVine's guide to choosing games that are appropriate to your skills and abilities.

Physical

Some readers might like to consult their doctor or physiotherapist before playing exercise games such as Wii Fit, or high-exertion games like Dance Dance Revolution. But don't let that stop you from playing them. For example, Wii Sports bowling is a great alternative to hurling a heavy bowling ball!

If a game requires a specific controller, try renting it for a few days from a video store rather than buying it outright. Remember that many modern games permit their controls to be redefined or “remapped” to a scheme that suits you, while some also allow for a wide variety of input devices.

If you are deaf, a game where one of the major cues is musical notes is probably not your best choice. Similarly, some games have a frustrating lack of subtitles: though that has improved greatly in recent years.

Those with colour-blindness will also appreciate that many games which once relied on colour cues alone have now taken to providing shape cues as well.

Meanwhile, people with less than perfect reflexes will probably prefer games where you take turns or can pause the action.

Cognitive

Gaming accessibility gets really interesting when it comes to learning difficulties and cognitive disorders. Gamers with cognitive difficulties can often play mainstream games perfectly well. Sometimes you just might need to choose game more carefully, or choose which aspect of the game to enjoy.

There is a wide selection of games designed specifically to cater to people with cognitive difficulties. There are even more designed for beginners to computer gaming. It's worth checking them out to see the variety available. Many are free to play. 

Focus on fun

Reviews can be a great help to identify which games are suitable for you. You can also check forums at most game publishers' websites. Often preview copies or “beta” (test) copies are distributed, and the developers are usually happy to answer questions.

Remember to look past the surface. The big name, heavily marketed games are often violent and gory - but that doesn't mean that's all there is available! Look for the city simulators, the music games, the pet or child-care games, or the social simulators.

Look at so-called “casual games” too. There are thousands of versions of solitaire, remakes of everything from backgammon to battleship. And almost everything that casual gaming specialist PopCap has produced is both addictive and simple to play. 

A game doesn't have to be hard to learn or hard to play to be satisfying and entertaining. Don't concern yourself if a game is “casual” or even intended for kids. Having fun is the goal, and if you are enjoying simple games, then just enjoy them. Experiment a little, and you'll find your own level.

There are even games that only require a single button. But it doesn't stop them from being fun and satisfying.

If you're new to gaming, or have learning difficulties, focus on simplicity first and find out what you enjoy. If you need it, get someone to help you. Sometimes it's even more fun to work through a game with someone else.

Useful gaming links

Game Accessibility (opens new window)

Virtual world teaches real-world skills (opens new window)

One Switch (opens new window)

Inclusive technology (opens new window)

Switch accessible software (opens new window)

20 accessible computer games (opens new window)

RJ’s free games (opens new window)

Novitatech games and puzzles (opens new window)

StarQuail Productions (opens new window)

PopCap Games (opens new window)

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