#Japan #Tokyo #thatgamecompany #Sky: Children #Para eSports

Empowering Children with Disabilities at Para eSports Festa 2025

On August 6, 2025, thatgamecompany, Inc. participated in the Para eSports Festa 2025, held in Tokyo, Japan, an inclusive event tailored for children with physical disabilities. This year, thatgamecompany showcased their renowned game, Sky: Children of the Light, which emphasizes emotional experiences and inclusivity.

The Para eSports Festa was first organized in 2024, aiming to utilize technology to expand the possibilities for children facing physical challenges. The event was well-received, earning a Gold Award from the Japan Association for Event Industry (JACE) in the Student, NPO, and Various Organizations category. The event's goal is to communicate that technology can help children enjoy games together, irrespective of their physical limitations.

Following the success of the inaugural event, the 2025 edition focused on enhancing the inclusivity of the experience. Participants engaged with various assistive technologies, including specialized controllers and eye-tracking devices, allowing them to play video games like Sky with minimal physical exertion. This accessibility was key in creating a welcoming environment for both children and their families.

Sky: Children of the Light has gained international acclaim for its ability to foster emotional connections and community among players. Designed for a broad audience, the game encourages individuals to share their feelings and build relationships, making it an ideal fit for the event's mission. Participants expressed delight in how engaging the game was, especially parents who noted that their children typically struggled to connect with peers in gaming environments.

Additionally, the event featured expert consultations and interactive sessions, ensuring that even families new to technology could comfortably navigate the barriers to entry. Concerns about joining gaming communities were frequently mentioned by attendees, so hearing how Sky presented a potential avenue for participation brought tremendous joy and excitement.

The success of the world-building and storytelling inherent in Sky has captivated over 2.7 billion downloads globally. The game’s artistic direction and emotional depth have earned numerous accolades, including recognition at the 2022 Japan Game Awards and a Guinness World Record for the largest user-participated concert in a virtual environment.

A video report from the event showcases the joyous reactions of attendees and the interactive booths that allowed children to explore the game’s world with ease. The event effectively demonstrated how gaming could provide a unique platform for emotional experiences and connections among children with disabilities.

As thatgamecompany looks to the future, they remain committed to expanding emotional experiences through gaming. The company aims to keep creating engaging and inclusive content that resonates with a diverse audience. Their dedication to fostering connection through play embodies the spirit of inclusion, ensuring that no child is left behind in the gaming world.

For more insights into the Para eSports Festa 2025, check out the event report video here.

About the Event

The Para eSports Festa was organized by Accredited NPO Florence and Techno Tools, focusing on the potential of technology to enhance the experiences of physically challenged children. It employs inclusive technologies like specialized input devices, allowing the use of mainstream games in a manner that accommodates various abilities. The 2025 iteration updated its offerings to include smartphone and tablet games, catering to families unfamiliar with technology.

About Sky: Children of the Light

Sky: Children of the Light is a social adventure game available on iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Steam. Launched in 2019, it invites players into a beautifully crafted universe where they can connect emotionally and explore together. The game encourages values of empathy and connection, aiming to create lasting positive impacts on its players. With continuous updates and expansions, Sky remains committed to enhancing the gaming experience for all.

Visit the official websites:
Sky: Children of the Light
thatgamecompany