AbleGamers Founder Accused of Fostering Abuse, Say Ex-Staff and Community

In 2004, AbleGamers was established as a nonprofit dedicated to elevating disabled voices and improving accessibility in the gaming industry. For nearly two decades, the organization has delivered talks at industry events, raised significant funds through charity events, and served as a critical resource for developers and players alike. Over time, AbleGamers became synonymous with video game accessibility, recognized by reporters, developers, and the public as a key driver of progress in this field.

Fueled by founder Mark Barlet, AbleGamers collaborated with major studios such as Xbox to develop the Xbox Adaptive Controller, PlayStation to design the Access Controller, and even partnered with Bungie for exclusive merchandise. Beyond industry collaborations, AbleGamers offered advisory services to developers, educating them on integrating accessibility features into their games. Initially, the organization distributed adaptive gaming equipment to disabled individuals, but this initiative was discontinued as the accessibility movement evolved.

Advocating Under Strenuous Conditions

Mark Barlet’s mission was to build a charity celebrating disabled inclusion in gaming. According to AbleGamers' website, the organization aimed to provide services such as peer counseling, fostering a sense of community, and offering consulting services. However, behind the scenes, sources reveal a toxic environment that undermined these goals.

A former employee, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted several troubling incidents spanning their decade-long tenure. Early on, Barlet began making sexist and emotionally abusive comments, pressuring the source to take on HR responsibilities despite lacking the necessary qualifications. Barlet would periodically joke about the situation, creating discomfort among colleagues.

The source also experienced aggressive behaviors, both directed at them and others. They overheard racist remarks, mediated conflicts between Barlet and coworkers, and witnessed inappropriate conduct, such as Barlet’s mocking of disabled individuals with obscene gestures. Barlet made sexually explicit remarks in front of others, especially during staff meetings or one-on-one interactions.

While Barlet initially befriended new hires, his behavior grew increasingly hostile as employees advanced. Whenever confronted, Barlet deflected accusations by claiming he was merely joking, yet the source noted his hostility escalated with every complaint. Barlet’s actions extended beyond AbleGamers, as sources attest to his dismissive and insulting behavior toward other accessibility advocates in the industry.

Toxicity Outside the Charity

Barlet allegedly displayed a pattern of disrespect toward peers and competitors in the accessibility space. At industry events, such as the Game Accessibility Conference, sources recall Barlet disparaging speakers and advocates, dismissing their efforts as ineffectual. During a meeting discussing major initiatives, Barlet interrupted participants, shouting dismissively and overshadowing presentations. Another advocate recalled Barlet boasting about owning the accessibility space, stating, "You are a drop in the pond of accessibility. And I own the pond."

When approached about potential collaborations, Barlet allegedly demanded ownership of the partner’s work and threatened to sabotage projects through his "deep industry contacts" if refused. These actions suggest Barlet’s desire to maintain sole authority over accessibility advocacy.

Financial Mismanagement

Barlet’s impact on AbleGamers extended beyond interpersonal issues to financial matters. The charity received millions in donations from studios and players, yet questions arose about how funds were utilized. A former employee reported frequent tensions over excessive spending, which did little to advance the organization’s mission.

Allegations include lavish expenditures, such as first-class travel, hotel stays unrelated to events, and expensive meals for remote staff. The purchase of a van during the pandemic was deemed unnecessary, as quarantine restrictions prevented its use. Additionally, a Tesla vehicle charger was installed at headquarters, despite only Barlet driving a Tesla. Both sources noted internal frustration over these decisions.

Salary discrepancies also emerged, with leadership questioning inconsistencies in pay structures. Certain employees earned disproportionately high salaries relative to their roles, suggesting favoritism. Leadership’s inability to address these issues underscores deeper organizational dysfunction.

Leadership Failures

Despite financial concerns, AbleGamers’ board hired a Certified Public Accountant as CFO, who reportedly raised alarms about financial irregularities. However, the board failed to act on these warnings, and the CFO ultimately left the organization. The lack of transparency deepened when employees were kept in the dark about investigations and transitions.

Barlet allegedly manipulated the board structure, isolating employees and preventing them from communicating directly with leadership. This obstruction delayed responses to employee complaints, including racism, ableism, sexual harassment, and leadership inaction. Even after an external investigation recommended Barlet’s immediate removal, the board delayed action, allegedly ignoring ADP’s findings.

Following Barlet’s departure, retaliation ensued. Several employees who participated in investigations were terminated, allegedly to silence dissent. Remaining staff consisted of those who did not engage in the investigation, raising concerns about the organization’s integrity. Furthermore, former mediator Steven Spohn allegedly used manipulative tactics to discourage former employees from speaking publicly.

Barlet’s Responses

In response to allegations, Barlet dismissed claims of workplace abuse and harassment, stating an independent investigation found them baseless. He attributed the investigation to pressure to reduce AbleGamers’ workforce and noted it was conducted internally. Barlet emphasized that multiple EEOC complaints followed, casting doubt on the investigation’s impartiality.

Regarding financial matters, Barlet justified first-class travel and luxury purchases as necessary for his disability-related needs. However, sources dispute these claims, highlighting extravagant spending patterns inconsistent with the organization’s stated policies. Additionally, Barlet denied installing a Tesla charger, arguing it was merely a plug, though independent board members confirmed its existence.

Barlet’s refusal to provide evidence or corroborating sources further fueled skepticism. His insistence on off-the-record discussions hindered transparency and accountability. For many disabled players, AbleGamers once symbolized hope. Yet, the reality revealed a deeply flawed organization that betrayed its mission and the trust of its employees and beneficiaries.