With professional mentor support, participants will work in diverse pairs to design and build a cooperative 2-player game:

• Develop the game’s story
• Design the various challenges
• Create non-player characters and write the dialogue
• Perform and record the dialogue (optional)
• Create simple 3D models for characters and environments
• Put eveything together
• Test and refine the game
• Publish and promote what they have created

The story and themes of Interplay were inspired by ideas developed by a group of young people who had recently completed our Literature Alive project. While continuing activities with them, they imagined a divided world where colour is a scarce and valuable resource – controlled by the wealthy in a domed Rainbow City, while others live in a greyscale environment.

Called Rainbow Rebellion, their game will follow two characters from opposite sides who must cooperate to recover colour and restore balance and equality to their world. This narrative explores themes of political inequity, collaboration, and environmental responsibility.

By weaving these ideas into the gameplay, Interplay will invite participants and players of Rainbow Rebellion to reflect on fairness, empathy, and the power of working together across differences – both in the game and in real life.

Interplay isn’t just about the game – it’s about the people who make it. Participants work in diverse pairs, bringing together children and young people from different backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. This approach mirrors the game’s themes of cooperation and bridging divides.

By pairing, for example, students from alternative and mainstream education, disabled and able-bodied participants, or neurodivergent and neurotypical young people, the project fosters empathy, understanding, and teamwork. These partnerships help break down social barriers and encourage participants to learn from each other as they create together.

Participants will create a fully playable cooperative video game, designed and built from the ground up through their teamwork and creativity. This includes:

• Simple 3D models for characters, environments, and props, all designed by the participants themselves
• Physical 3D printed models of their creations, which they can keep as personal souvenirs
• Custom-designed game controllers, built and assembled by the participants to play their game in a unique, hands-on way
• A professionally published game released on platforms like Steam, featuring the names of all participants to celebrate their achievements

Through these creations, participants will see their ideas come to life both digitally and physically — a lasting testament to their creativity and collaboration.

By taking part in Interplay, students will:

• Develop valuable skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving
• Gain hands-on experience with 3D modelling, game design, and physical computing
• Build confidence through seeing their ideas valued and realised
• Foster empathy and understanding by working closely with peers from diverse backgrounds
• Explore important themes like fairness, cooperation, and environmental responsibility
• Have the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience through the game’s public release

This project aims to empower students as creators and collaborators, helping them grow both creatively and personally.

Interplay is completely FREE for schools — no charges for participation during school hours or in after-school sessions.

Some community sessions – such as drama clubs or workshops at partner venues – may have a small fee to help cover costs. These will always be affordable and clearly communicated in advance.

We are committed to making Interplay accessible to all young people by removing financial barriers wherever possible.

We understand how busy schools are – so we make everything as simple as possible for you.

We’ll take care of:

• All parental consent forms
• Risk assessments
• Planning and delivering all sessions
• Providing any equipment needed

There’s no cost to schools, and minimal admin required on your part.

We’d be delighted for your staff to observe or take part. We’re also happy to offer free CPD sessions for teachers and TAs as part of the project  covering:

• 3D modelling
• Game design
• Physical computing
• Computer science

All we need is space and some enthusiastic students.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do.

• All tutors have Enhanced DBS checks (Child Workforce)
• Lead tutors are qualified teachers with Level 3 Safeguarding Training
• We follow robust safeguarding policies and procedures in line with current legislation
• Our team has experience working with children from a wide range of backgrounds and needs

Your staff are always welcome to observe or attend sessions.

You can download our safeguarding and other policies from our About page.