Microsoft Store has launched Xbox Academy – a free, digital game development workshop – with the first event conducted in partnership with East London Arts and Music (ELAM), Games London and BAFTA award-winning Playground Games.
Designed to inspire the next generation of game creators, and to give them insights into game design and development, Xbox Academy will deliver a free digital workshop this September.
The virtual workshop will introduce students to the fundamentals of game design, including an overview of how UK based Playground Games approaches game design for acclaimed titles like the Forza Horizon franchise.
From understanding the game development process, to learning how to use developer tools like Unity, participants will have the opportunity to learn new skills guided directly by ELAM. Students will learn how to navigate the Unity interface,
develop basic 3D level design, and leave the session with an understanding to start building a basic game within Unity.
“It’s a real pleasure to work with the talented people of Playground Games and Microsoft Store in delivering these sessions.”
Curtis Le Blanc, Director of Games at East London Arts and Music
“Many of the students at ELAM have started their education in games development and other areas based on the inspiration from industry leaders just like the people at Playground, so we know that sessions like this are invaluable in ensuring the huge opportunities for growth and employment in the UK are fulfilled.”
The workshop will be hosted online with participants able to register to secure a place in one of four sessions, joining via their own PC to take part. Ahead of each session, participants will be provided with instructions to get set up ahead of the workshop, including downloading the latest version of Unity and 3D Game Kit.
“I’m thrilled that Playground Games is part of Xbox Academy and that our team members Maria Lee and Ryan Greene can share their experience and knowledge with games creators,”
Gavin Raeburn, Studio Director of Playground Games.
“As a team, we are passionate about fostering new talent in the industry, such as with our 12-month placement scheme for university students from relevant courses. This event is another great way that we can pass on some of the expertise within the studio to inspire the next generation of game creators.”
Xbox Academy is one of many virtual workshops and training being offered by Microsoft Store associates – to inspire, serve and help upskill customers, small businesses and communities through learning and technology.
Spaces are limited so head to https://microsoftevent.eventbuilder.com/XboxAcademy to register* for one of four sessions being run across 12th and 13th September hosted by Microsoft Store associates. Please note the minimum registration age for the Xbox Academy is 16 as outlined in the websites T&Cs
