Character customisation is a way for games to give players a personalised experience. But when we're born into the real world, we have no say on our race or gender. The developers of online multiplayer gameRustare emulating this by randomising gamers' avatars – and players aren't happy.

Studies show that our ability to empathise has greatly diminished over the last 30 years. It’s due in part to the uptake of smartphones and social media – we’re all too busy thinking about ourselves. But while it might be part of the problem, could technology also be used to make us more empathetic?

The Xbox One is going wheelchair-friendly. It's set to become the first major gaming platform to release disabled avatars, complete with wheelchairs that complement the console's signature neon green. This is the latest in a string of examples of how brands can champion equality.

Miitomo is Nintendo’s first entry into the app market – a platform that lets users interact with others by answering questions about their tastes and experiences. It promises a safer social space between friends, but will people care about the vast amount of personal data they’re giving up?