The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the games industry have partnered for a brand new campaign.

The #PlayApartTogether push sees top companies from the video games sector encouraging players to be mindful of the guidelines laid out to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

The campaign will see special events, activities and rewards in-game to encourage people to stay indoors and help keep themselves and those around them safe.

So far the campaign has attracted 18 companies including PC and console publishers Activision Blizzard and Riot, as well as broadcast platforms Twitch and YouTube Gaming and engine firm Unity.

Mobile games firms such as Kabam, Snap Games, the Amazon App Store, Maysalward, Big Fish Games, Playtika, Dirtybit, Pocket Games, Wooga, Glu, Jam City, SciPlay and Zynga are also on board.

“It’s never been more critical to ensure people stay safely connected to one another," said Activision Blizzard boss Robert Kotick.

"Games are the perfect platform because they connect people through the lens of joy, purpose and meaning. We are proud to participate in such a worthwhile and necessary initiative.”

Riot's CEO Nicolo Laurent added: “Physical distancing shouldn’t mean social isolation! Let’s stay physically apart – and take other public health steps such as hand hygiene – to help flatten the curve and #PlayApartTogether to help power through this crisis. For Rioters, playing games is more than just a game; it’s a meaningful life pursuit. And now, for the billions of players around the world, playing games could help the pursuit of saving lives. Let’s beat this COVID-19 boss battle together.”