Skillset PowerPlay is a game targeted at western NSW apprentices and trainees to help them reduce energy usage in real life.

Within the game, zombie-like figures called Elementals have ravaged the cities and towns, pushing humanity to the brink of extinction, but a small western NSW town has fought back.

Project co-ordinator Russell Meadley said participants could use a small generator to power the town, upgrade the town by finding energy-efficient products, find more survivors and recharge their weapons by day and fend off the Elementals by night.

“But if you haven’t got enough power by being efficient during the day, you won’t make it though the night,” he said.

Mr Meadley said the federal government funded game was a way of helping trainees and apprentices outside the workplace.

“Apprentices and trainees are often on lower incomes and are more vulnerable to electricity prices,” he said.

“By being involved, we can help change the behaviour of an apprentice to become more energy efficient.”

The program also has a research component - participants will receive a $50 gift voucher if they allow Essential Energy and the Western Research Institute to monitor their energy consumption for the next two years.

The monitoring will allow the organisations to find out whether the apprentices and trainees are able to cut their energy use.

Prizes from Skillset and Enviroshop will be on offer for participants who meet the eligibility criteria.

Skillset PowerPlay is available free on Apple and Android devices.

danielle.cetinski@fairfaxmedia.com.au