Mobile game developer Zynga has made a move to promote diversity in gaming with the launch of Access All Areas, a virtual studio that allows users to see and learn about the video game industry. Access All Areas has been developed by Zynga’s subsidiary studio NaturalMotion and is intended for young people, and others, to find out more about how they can get into the games industry. It aims to showcase the skills and qualifications necessary for all aspects of working in games.
Co-Founder of Access All Areas and Senior Director of Analytics at NaturalMotion, Kerrie Neale, said of the announcement: “We built Access All Areas in conjunction with partners and experts to increase awareness about gaming careers and to broaden access for everyone, especially young creative minds from different backgrounds.
“Today’s launch is the result of passionate work by our teams to deliver an innovative digital space that educates students on all aspects of gaming, from transforming a game from idea to product to discovering various pathways into a gaming career. We welcome everyone to explore and experience the diverse talent pool that goes into creating amazing games.”
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Given Zynga’s prominence in mobile gaming, it’s little surprise they and their subsidiary NaturalMotion are taking a step like this. However, it may also point to Zynga’s important role within the broader Take-Two Interactive corporate ecosystem. Their social impact fund was, of course, in existence well before their acquisition, having been announced in 2020. But it’s still interesting to see them putting their foot forward with a virtual studio tour that seeks to introduce young people and prospective employees to all aspects of game development.
Zynga is also putting the UK first in the announcement, gesturing to their intention that this new diversity platform caters to underrepresented communities across the country.
This article was first published on PocketGamer.biz.
