A former University of Hertfordshire student has won a BAFTA award for his work on the hit video game God of War Ragnarök.

Michael Leaning graduated from the Hatfield university in 2007 with a BSc (Hons) Music and Sound Design Technology, followed by an MSc in Music and Sound Technology (Audio Programming) in 2008.

This year, he won the Audio Achievement BAFTA Game Award as part of a team that worked on the game.

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Welwyn Hatfield Times: Michael and his team at the BAFTA Game Awards this year.Michael and his team at the BAFTA Game Awards this year. (Image: Michael Leaning)

The alumni member developed many skills during his time at the university, which he believes has "helped shape a career in sound design."

Michael said: "My undergraduate degree in Music Technology introduced me to sound design for the moving image, something I hadn't thought about when applying for the course. I had initially been focused on music.

"There was something about putting sound to visuals that excited me and I've been doing it ever since."

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Michael Leaning went on to use his degree from the university of become a sound designer for Sweet Justice Sound.Michael Leaning went on to use his degree from the university of become a sound designer for Sweet Justice Sound. (Image: Michael Leaning)

Speaking about his time at the university, Michael said: "Working with animation students was one of the best experiences. I also enjoyed having the opportunity to work in a professional studio setting, and take my first steps into sound design on high-end equipment and surround sound.

"Learning about so many different aspects of sound, and collaborating with different creative disciplines, definitely led me on the path I’m walking today."

                                                                                                         

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Currently, Michael works as a sound designer with Sweet Justice Sound, which partnered with Sony PlayStation sound services and Santa Monica Studios, to create the cinematic and in-game audio for Ragnarök.

He added: "It was an incredible career highlight and a project I’ll remember for a very long time. At the BAFTAs I was lucky enough to meet and chat to US-based Sony colleagues and members of the Ragnarök cast who attended the event. It was an amazing night."

Michael looks forward to what the future has in store for him and said: "I’ve been lucky enough to work on some of the biggest gaming franchises such as Spiderman, Fortnite and Halo during my career.

"I love what I do for a living, and I look forward to continuing to work on amazing games and improving my skills over a long and varied career."