Microsoft partners with Special Olympics for inclusive event.
Photo credit: Microsoft, Turn 10 Studios
In times of the coronavirus pandemic, inclusivity is arguably more important than ever before. For this reason, Micosoft and Special Olympics bring the 2020 Special Olympics Xbox Virtual Gaming Event to your screens on May 30 at 12 PM PT (3 PM ET). The competition is going to feature more than 35 participants from eleven states who will compete in the racing game Forza Motorsport 7.
The event will be streamed on Mixer, YouTube and Twitch. Until June 30, you have the opportunity to donate Microsoft Reward points which are on top matched by the company. For 1,000 points, Microsoft donated $1 to charity in the past, it is likely they’ll maintain this value also for the Forza event.
Esports racing and its unique relationship to Special Olympics
Microsoft and Xbox have collaborated with Special Olympics before: After the beginning of their partnership in 2014, they hosted a dedicated Forza Motorsport 7 tournament at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games. The event received much acclaim, both from participants and viewers and sent an important message: Gaming and competition is for everyone.
Among all esports, virtual racing is quite unique when it comes to inclusivity. Unlike any other real sport, racing can be emulated fairly well in the digital space, which makes esports racing also accessible for people with certain obstacles, be they economical, cultural or structural, handicaps or needs. Esports racing is way cheaper than its traditional counter-part, yet provides an experience that comes excitingly close to reality.
Mircosoft and other companies work continously on solutions to increase the accessibility of their games and broaden their gamer audience. The AbleGamers Charity for instance builds unique controllers and setups for people with disabilities to enable them to play.
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