Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Zombies has introduced an accessibility feature that allows players to change the appearance of spiders, catering specifically to those with arachnophobia. This is a significant step towards inclusivity in gaming, as it enables more players to enjoy the game without facing fear-inducing visuals.
However, the creatures that replace the spiders in this setting are described as legless and grotesque, leading some to question whether these alternatives might be even more unsettling.
The author shares their background growing up in Phoenix, Arizona, a region known for its encounters with various dangerous creatures, including spiders. This experience may have contributed to their desensitization to arachnids, providing a unique perspective on the disturbing designs of the spider replacements.
When comparing the original spiders to the new legless entities, the author expresses uncertainty about which would be more disturbing to encounter in a horror game set.
Although the introduction of the arachnophobia feature is a welcome addition, the author critiques its limited implementation. They draw comparisons to other games that have provided more thorough options for players with arachnophobia.
For instance, Grounded allows players to turn spiders into amorphous blobs, while Lethal Company humorously replaces spiders with the word “spider.” In contrast, the new setting in Call of Duty appears to simply remove the spiders’ legs in a manner that some might find particularly nightmarish.
Despite the basic nature of this feature, the author remains supportive of the effort to enhance accessibility. They acknowledge the importance of providing options for players who experience fear or anxiety related to spiders, even if the solutions are not fully effective. The discussion around accessibility in gaming is evolving, and every advancement toward inclusivity is a step in the right direction, regardless of how it is executed.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is now available on several platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, PS4, and Xbox One. This broad accessibility allows many players to engage with the game and its new features, including the arachnophobia setting.
As the gaming industry continues to progress, innovations like this demonstrate a growing awareness of the diverse needs of players, making gaming a more welcoming space for everyone.
