Scopely's multiplayer party game Stumble Guys has launched a charity campaign called Play for Change in partnership with SpecialEffect, a UK-based charity dedicated to helping people with physical disabilities play video games through adapted controllers and assistive technology.

Quick Facts

  • Campaign Dates: July 23 to July 30
  • Platforms: PC, iOS, Android
  • Charity Partner: SpecialEffect (founded in 2007 by Mick Donegan in Oxfordshire, England)
  • Key Item: Axel skin, the game's first wheelchair-using character

How the Axel Skin and Campaign Came Together

Running through July 30, the campaign centers on Axel, Stumble Guys' first playable skin depicting a character who uses a wheelchair. All proceeds from Axel skin purchases made during the campaign window go directly to SpecialEffect, according to Scopely's press release. The initiative coincides with Disability Pride Month, which is observed each July to recognize the identities and contributions of people with disabilities.

Axel's creation traces back to a player named Fayçal, who asked the Stumble Guys team earlier this year about disability representation in the game. That single question prompted the studio to develop Axel as the game's first wheelchair-using character. Scopely detailed Fayçal's story in a blog post published earlier this year, noting that community feedback continues to shape the physics-based party knockout game's development.

About SpecialEffect

Founded in 2007 by former teacher Mick Donegan, SpecialEffect works with developers to build specialized game control devices and improve game accessibility. The Oxfordshire-based organization uses inputs from any part of the body capable of movement, ranging from small toe movements to a player's gaze. The charity's work includes a free eye-controlled interface for Minecraft and browser-based games designed for players who control inputs solely through eye movement. Donegan received an MBE in 2022 for his contributions to assistive technology, and the organization was honored with a BAFTA in 2024.

Where to Buy the Axel Skin

Players interested in supporting the campaign can purchase the Axel skin through the in-game Stumble Guys Shop during the July 23–30 window. Scopely framed Play for Change as an extension of the studio's broader approach to community-driven development, aiming to honor Fayçal's influence while supporting SpecialEffect's mission of expanding gaming access.