Introduction

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices are tools that support individuals with speech and communication disabilities, enabling them to express themselves through nonverbal or assisted means. These devices range from digital picture boards to speech-generating devices. For many AAC users, especially those with autism or related communication differences, digital tools are central to daily communication, learning, and play.

This project introduces a web-based game that places the AAC users as primary drivers of gameplay. Unlike traditional designs where games are made for AAC users, this system enables AAC users to control and drive the game through their devices. This facilitates a social and communicative experience that empowers users.

The design is guided by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 and the autism-specific AASPIRE Web Accessibility Guidelines, which emphasize:

• Intellectual accessibility (clear structure and language)
• Social accessibility (predictable interaction and reduced ambiguity)

These design principles inform everything in the application with the goal of building a platform that is both accessible and engaging from the start, not as an afterthought.

The system serves as both a collaborative play environment and a research platform for understanding how AAC interfaces can support autonomy, communication, and engagement through in game interaction.