Weekend: Building Accessible Games and Reading Tools with Dani Devesa Derksen-Staats

Discover how indie developer Dani Devesa Derksen-Staats created RetroRapid, an accessible retro racing game, and Xarra, a flexible reading and listening app. Learn how thoughtful design, multiple input methods, and community feedback can shape more inclusive experiences across Apple devices.

Shaun Preece talks to Dani Devesa Derksen-Staats, an indie developer based in London, about his transition from working at the BBC to building accessibility-focused apps in his spare time. His latest projects highlight how inclusive design can be applied across both gaming and productivity tools.

RetroRapid is a retro LCD-style racing game available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Originally a side project, it evolved into a fully released title following feedback at the ARCtic conference. The game was designed with accessibility in mind, supporting multiple input methods including taps, swipes, keyboards, game controllers, and the Apple Watch Digital Crown. Dani explains how audio cues—assigning musical notes to each lane—help players build a mental map of the road, alongside haptic feedback and direct touch controls. Community feedback from AppleVis also played a key role in refining the experience.

Dani also introduces Xarra, a newly launched app designed to support reading and focus. It allows users to import text, PDFs, and web content, combining audio playback with synchronised on-screen highlighting at line or word level. Built with accessibility at its core, Xarra supports VoiceOver, Switch Control, Full Keyboard Access, and Voice Control, while preserving image descriptions in audio. It also uses Apple Intelligence and Foundation Models to convert code blocks into natural language when listening to technical content.

Relevant LinksRetroRapid & Xarra: https://accessibilityupto11.com/appsAccessibility Up to 11: https://accessibilityupto11.com