Overview
Accessibility was considered throughout the development of Through Ash to improve clarity, usability, and overall player experience. While the game is heavily atmosphere driven, several features were implemented to ensure important gameplay and narrative information could still be communicated clearly through both visual and audio feedback.
Subtitles & Dialogue Clarity
All voice lines within the game are accompanied by subtitles, ensuring narrative information remains accessible even if audio is missed or reduced.
This was particularly important due to the game’s use of environmental ambience and radio-based dialogue, where overlapping audio could otherwise reduce clarity. Subtitles helped maintain narrative understanding while supporting different player needs and play environments.
Visual Feedback for Audio Based Events
Several gameplay events rely on alarms and warning systems to communicate danger or urgency. To support players who may struggle to rely solely on audio cues, visual indicators were added alongside sound effects.
For example:
- the vent alarm system uses a large flashing red light visible throughout the bunker space
- warning events are reinforced through screen-based visual feedback rather than audio alone
This ensured that important gameplay information could still be understood visually.
Oxygen Event Accessibility Improvements
Early versions of the oxygen depletion event relied primarily on audio, making it difficult for some players to recognise the danger quickly.
Following evaluation and testing, additional visual feedback was implemented. As oxygen levels decrease:
- the edges of the screen gradually darken
- colour saturation begins fading
- the player’s vision becomes increasingly obscured
These effects were designed to simulate fainting while also clearly communicating the player’s condition through visual means.
This change improved gameplay readability and strengthened the connection between mechanics and atmosphere.
Player Settings & Adjustments
The settings menu includes adjustable:
- brightness controls
- volume controls
These options allow players to tailor the experience to their environment and personal preference, improving overall usability and accessibility.
Epilepsy Warning
An epilepsy warning was added before the opening pre-rendered cutscene due to the presence of bright flashes and intense visual effects.
This was included to ensure players are informed before gameplay begins and reflects consideration for player safety and accessibility requirements.