Microsoft launches Xbox Academy, a new, free virtual workshop for aspiring game devs Eurogamer.net If you click on a link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission. Read our editorial policy. Microsoft launches Xbox Academy, a new, free virtual workshop for aspiring game devs The sessions are "designed to inspire the next generation of games creators". News by Vikki Blake Contributor Updated on 6 Sep 2020 11 comments Microsoft has announced Xbox Academy, a new, free games development tutorial "designed to inspire the next generation of games creators, and to give them an insight into game design and development". The free digital workshop kicks off later this month in September, and is said to be "one of many" virtual workshops being offered by Microsoft in a bid to "inspire, serve and help upskill customers, small businesses and communities through learning and technology". Run by East London Arts and Music (ELAM), Games London, and Playground Games, 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". Participants will also learn more about the game development process and developer tools like Unity. "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," said 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." "It's a real pleasure to work with the talented people of Playground Games and Microsoft Store in delivering these sessions," added 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." Spaces are reportedly limited, so to get involved head to the official website to register for one of four sessions offered online across 12th and 13th September. Participants need to be at least 16 years old to take part. Watch on YouTube Become a Eurogamer subscriber and get your first month for £1 Get your first month for £1 (normally £3.99) when you buy a Standard Eurogamer subscription. Enjoy ad-free browsing, merch discounts, our monthly letter from the editor, and show your support with a supporter-exclusive comment flair! Support us View supporter archive More News Splatoon 3 Amiibos will be out next month Ink-coming! 3 Fans think Phil Spencer's shelf is teasing the Xbox Game Pass streaming box UPDATE: Xbox confirms old Keystone prototype. 59 Modder dives into Demon's Souls files following PS5 jailbreak, discovers fabled Ring of the Chieftain Who knows what's nexus? 4 Google announces cloud gaming Chromebooks less than a fortnight after Stadia shutdown GeForce Now preinstalled. 11 Latest Articles Preview Football Manager's new Console edition is the best you'll get without a PC Getting Touch-right. Splatoon 3 Amiibos will be out next month Ink-coming! 3 Fans think Phil Spencer's shelf is teasing the Xbox Game Pass streaming box UPDATE: Xbox confirms old Keystone prototype. 59 Modder dives into Demon's Souls files following PS5 jailbreak, discovers fabled Ring of the Chieftain Who knows what's nexus? 4 Supporters Only Premium only Off Topic: Take a minute to appreciate Cookin' with Coolio's incredible scallops recipe. What a great book. Premium only Off Topic: Reading City of Glass in comic form "Where exactly am I going?" Premium only Off Topic: Il Buco is a transporting film about a really big hole Underlands. Off-Topic Netflix handled Sandman brilliantly It was Dreamy. 9 Buy things with globes on them And other lovely Eurogamer merch in our official store! Explore our store