EDIT: I played some further, and still don't understand what the handalphabets that are used as runes are shown for? Why should the characters in the game know the runes? So far I haven't met any character that are deaf or are in need of hand alphabets...
Hi there! First of all, thank you so much for playing and for your sweet words about the game! I truly appreciate you sharing your perspective as a deaf gamer and programmer.
To answer your question: in this current version, the hand alphabets are used as a way to cast magic. Because this game was originally built for a game jam with a very tight deadline, the implementation is admittedly not as fleshed out as I would have liked, and there aren't any NPCs who utilize sign language yet. The initial vision was simply to introduce players to the sign language alphabet and raise some awareness.
On a personal note, I’ve been taking this very seriously; late last year, I graduated from Level 1 of the Indonesian Sign Language (Bisindo) program held by Pusbisindo, focusing on fingerspelling, basic vocabulary, and everyday conversation. This opened my eyes to the depth of sign language. I have since been consulting with Deaf friends and experienced game developers on how my team and I can properly integrate these concepts into the game moving forward.
Your feedback makes total sense and is incredibly valuable to us. Also, best of luck with your game, 'Just Prices'! I'll definitely check your profile. Thank you again!