DUTCH GAME AWARDS
On the evening of November 19, the Dutch Games Association will host the Dutch Game Awards during Dutch Game Week. The event will feature an evening filled with networking opportunities.
This 2026 edition includes a total of 10 regular awards and 4 special awards (by nomination only).
18:30 | Doors open
18:45 – 19:45 | Networking Mingle. Catch-up with your fellow game industry peers.
20:00 – 21:30 | Award Ceremony
21:30 – 23:00 | Celebration mingle. Grab a drink and toast to our winners!
Best Game
A game that overall brings the highest quality to its audience. First release between July 1st 2024 and August 31st 2025. Open Beta releases are also allowed. (A more specific description can be found in the Rules of Entry)
Best Student Game
Submitted game needs to be developed by a student or group of students at a Dutch university, as part of the study curriculum. The game needs to be finished and (beta) published.
Best Debut Game
First game/project of a game studio located in the Netherlands. First release between July 1st 2024 and August 31st 2025. Open Beta releases are also allowed. (A more specific description can be found in the Rules of Entry)
Best Audio
From beautiful game soundtrack or great quality in voice acting to game-enhancing audio effects. The Best in Audio has the power to enhance a game experience and truly move people.
Best Art
A game that shows excellence in gameplay art, animation, cutscenes or any other form of visual art and the way it enhances the gameplay experience. Either by pushing the boundaries of what is technically possible, or by breaking away from the beaten path in originality.
Best Technology
Best use of hardware/software technology in game development. Pushing the boundaries and showing the path forward in optimal and innovative use of game tech.
Best Game Design
Game Design that takes the user to the edge of their seat, shows groundbreaking controls and user onboarding, unique gameplay and puzzles, or novel design implementation. Originality, accessibility, innovation and perfection are key.
Best Narrative
Excellent in compelling storytelling or innovative ways of implementing narrative design, used to enhance or enrich the characters and worldbuilding in the game. A game that shows outstanding narrative elements, ranging from dialogue and story beats to informative texts.
Best Applied: Impact
Best game developed for a specific impact e.g. education/training, medical appliance, therapy, etc. Submitted work needs to display digital gameplay elements and clear motivation on the (potential) aimed impact. Judging criteria include innovation and general excellence in concept and execution.
Best Applied: Playful Experience
Playful Experiences excel at delivering curiosity, and a strong sense of play. These applied games invite players to experiment, explore, and interact in creative or surprising ways through innovative mechanics and charming design. These experiences make play itself the central focus of the game.
Best Student Game
Submitted game needs to be developed by a student or group of students at a Dutch university, as part of the study curriculum.
Submissions are open till 31st of July.
Enter your game across ten categories. Professional submissions €99, students €2. Three simple steps: list your game, pay via Eventbrite, complete the form.
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