Unlocking Accessibility: Brock Davis' Mission to Empower Gamers with Disabilities

Brock Davis, a 35-year-old with cerebral palsy, is making waves in the gaming industry as a Test Analyst at Blizzard Entertainment. Despite the challenges he has faced, Brock is determined to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the immersive world of video games. His journey from a passionate gamer to a driving force behind the accessibility features in Diablo IV is an inspiring tale of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless pursuit to create a more inclusive gaming landscape.

Empowering Gamers, One Feature at a Time

Embracing Gaming as a Lifeline

Brock's love for gaming began at a young age, when he found solace and connection in the virtual worlds of the PlayStation 2. "Games were my go-to and that's how I made friends," he recalls of his childhood. "I would have them over and play games with them." This passion for gaming not only provided him with a social outlet but also laid the foundation for his future career.

Pursuing Higher Education and Overcoming Stereotypes

Determined to turn his passion into a profession, Brock attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Media Arts and Game Development. Recognizing the need to further enhance his skills, he decided to pursue a master's degree, choosing Full Sail University's Game Design program. Despite the challenges of being a disabled individual in the job market, Brock was determined to make his mark in the gaming industry.

Joining the Accessibility Crusade at Blizzard

After gaining experience at smaller studios, Brock's hard work and dedication paid off when he joined Blizzard Entertainment in February 2021. Initially working as an Associate Test Analyst on Diablo II: Resurrected, Brock's role quickly evolved, and he was promoted to Test Analyst for the highly anticipated Diablo IV.

Ensuring Accessibility for All Gamers

In his current role, Brock's primary focus is to ensure that the accessibility features in Diablo IV cater to the needs of players with disabilities. This includes features such as closed captioning, adjustable contrast, haptic feedback, and the ability to have on-screen text read aloud. Brock's expertise lies in meticulously testing these features, identifying any issues, and collaborating with designers to address them.

Navigating the Challenges of the Gaming Industry

Brock acknowledges that finding employment in the gaming industry can be particularly challenging for individuals with disabilities. "It's hard to get a job when you are disabled because [of] so many stereotypes," he says. However, Brock's perseverance and determination have been the driving forces behind his success. He encourages others facing similar obstacles to persist, as he believes that "if you get a rejection, keep applying and you'll get somewhere."

Inspiring Others and Leaving a Lasting Impact

Brock's ultimate goal is to make a lasting impact on the gaming industry and to inspire others with disabilities to pursue their dreams. "I want to make a difference in the gaming industry as well as to be an inspiration to other disabled people to say, 'If Brock can do this, so can I,'" he says.Through his work at Blizzard, Brock is not only ensuring that Diablo IV is accessible to a wider audience but also paving the way for a more inclusive gaming landscape. His story serves as a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves a seat at the gaming table.