Supporting Our Customers with Autism

Neurodiversity & Accessibility at 8Bit Beyond

Retro Gaming Should Be Enjoyable for Everyone

At 8Bit Beyond, we believe that everyone should be able to enjoy retro gaming in a way that works for them.

People experience the world differently, and shopping environments, communication and sensory stimulation that feel completely normal to one person can sometimes be overwhelming or uncomfortable for another.

That's why we're committed to making 8Bit Beyond a welcoming, understanding and flexible place for neurodivergent customers and their families.

Whether you're autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia/DCD, sensory processing differences or another form of neurodivergence, we're happy to listen to what you need and make reasonable adjustments wherever we can.

You don't need to explain or justify your needs to us.

If there's something we can do to make your experience easier, just let us know.

Our Neurodiversity-Friendly Approach

We know that there isn't one single way to make a shop or shopping experience accessible.

What helps one person may not help another.

That's why our approach is based around flexibility, patience and communication, rather than expecting everyone to fit into the same process.

A Calm Shopping Environment

Our shop operates by appointment, helping us provide a quieter and more controlled environment rather than expecting customers to navigate a busy retail environment.

Appointments can also give you the opportunity to let us know in advance if there is anything that would make your visit more comfortable.

Reduce Sensory Stimulation

If you're sensitive to sound, we're happy to turn off music or other unnecessary audio during your visit.

We can also discuss lighting where possible if bright or changing lights are uncomfortable for you.

If there are particular sensory triggers you know about, let us know before your appointment and we'll do our best to accommodate you.

Take Things at Your Own Pace

There is no need to rush.

If you need additional time to look at something, make a decision, process information or ask questions, that's absolutely fine.

We'd rather you have a comfortable experience than feel pressured into making a decision.

Flexible Communication

Everyone communicates differently.

If you prefer information to be explained verbally, in writing, step-by-step or in a straightforward and direct way, just tell us.

We're happy to adapt our communication style to suit you.

If you'd rather browse without lots of conversation, that's fine too.

Neurodiversity at 8Bit Beyond

Neurodiversity covers a wide range of different ways of thinking, learning, communicating and experiencing the world.

Our aim isn't to make assumptions about what someone with a particular condition or diagnosis needs.

Instead, we encourage customers to tell us what works for them.

Our approach can support people with a range of neurodivergent experiences, including:

Autism

We recognise that autistic people can have very different needs and preferences.

Quiet appointments, reduced sensory stimulation, predictable processes and clear communication may help make a visit more comfortable.

ADHD

Some customers with ADHD may benefit from clear, concise information, step-by-step explanations and a straightforward shopping process.

We're happy to take things one step at a time.

Dyslexia

We can provide information in a clear and straightforward format and are happy to explain anything that isn't clear.

Our product pages also include descriptions and photographs to help you make decisions before purchasing.

Dyspraxia / DCD

If physical access, handling products or navigating the shop presents a difficulty, let us know and we'll do what we can to make your visit easier.

Sensory Processing Differences

Some people are particularly sensitive to sound, lighting, crowds, touch or other sensory input.

Where possible, we can reduce unnecessary sensory stimulation during appointments.

Other Neurodivergent Needs

Neurodiversity is broad, and not everyone will identify with one of the examples above.

If you have a different need or simply know what helps you feel comfortable, please tell us.

We're here to help wherever reasonably possible.

Making Online Shopping Easier

Accessibility isn't just about visiting our shop.

We also want our online customers to have the information they need to make decisions comfortably and confidently.

Clear Product Information

We aim to provide clear and honest product descriptions so you know what you're buying before placing an order.

Where appropriate, our product listings include photographs of the actual item, condition information and relevant details.

Predictable Processes

We aim to keep our ordering, payment and delivery processes as straightforward and consistent as possible.

Knowing what to expect can make online shopping easier, particularly if unexpected changes or uncertainty can be stressful.

Ask Us Questions

If there is something you aren't sure about, please ask before ordering.

Whether you want clarification about a game's condition, what's included with a console, delivery or anything else, we're happy to help.

There is no such thing as a silly question.

Visiting 8Bit Beyond

If you're planning to visit us and would like to discuss your requirements beforehand, please get in touch.

You can tell us as much or as little as you're comfortable with.

For example, you might want to let us know:

That you prefer a quiet environment
That you find bright lighting uncomfortable
That you'd prefer minimal conversation
That you need information explained in a particular way
That you need additional time to make a decision
That you'd like someone with you during your visit
That there are particular sensory triggers we should be aware of
Anything else that would make your visit easier

You don't need to use medical or diagnostic terminology.

Simply telling us what you need is enough.

Bringing Someone With You

If having a parent, carer, support worker, friend or family member with you helps you feel more comfortable, you're welcome to let us know when arranging your appointment.

We want you to feel comfortable and supported during your visit.

We Don't Expect You to "Fit In"

One of the most important things we want customers to know is that you don't have to behave in a particular way to shop with us.

You don't need to make eye contact.

You don't need to make small talk.

You don't need to know all the gaming terminology.

You don't need to make a decision immediately.

And you don't need to apologise for asking us to explain something again.

We're here because we love gaming — and we want other people to be able to enjoy it too.

Our Commitment to Accessibility

We're continually looking at ways we can improve the experience we provide for our customers.

We won't always get everything perfect, and accessibility needs are different for everyone.

If you've visited 8Bit Beyond and have an idea that could make the experience better for neurodivergent customers, we'd genuinely like to hear it.

Your feedback can help us make the experience better for the next person.

Retro Gaming, Your Way

Whether you're visiting our shop, buying online or simply looking for a particular retro game, you should feel welcome at 8Bit Beyond.

We're passionate about retro gaming, but we know that enjoying the hobby looks different for everyone.

Our goal is simple:

A welcoming environment.
Clear communication.
Less unnecessary sensory pressure.
And a gaming experience that works for you.

If there's something we can do to make your experience more comfortable, please ask.

We're always happy to help.