This thesis evaluates the effectiveness of visual accessibility features in video games by measuring the player performance of participants who are experiencing simulated effects of Macular Degeneration with a Head Mounted Display. In this thesis, the following research questions are posed: • Q1: How does a non-visually impaired person’s performance playing videogames vary with and without simulated visual impairments? • Q2: How do accessibility features affect a person’s performance when playing games with simulated Macular Degeneration?

A mixed methodology approach was used to evaluate the player performance across three types of videogames: First-Person Shooter, Racing, and 2D Platformer. For each videogame, the participant’s experienced three implemented accessibility features: Object Highlighting, Object Outlining, and Desaturation of the Environment. Participant interviews for each videogame were also conducted to gain insight into any changes in performance.

Results indicate a difference in performance when participants played each videogame with simulated Macular Degeneration. However, even when accessibility features were introduced to mitigate or overcome the effects of simulated Macular Degeneration, performance was still negatively affected in the presence of simulated Macular Degeneration compared to playing unimpaired. Unfortunately, there is no quantitative or qualitative results that suggest any of the evaluated accessibility features significantly improved performance of users experiencing simulated Macular Degeneration.