Dutch Games IndustryAward Categories
Discover the different categories you can submit your game for, and the special awards recognizing outstanding people and studios.
Award Categories
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Best Game
A game that overall brings the highest quality to its audience. The best game of the year, across all genres and platforms.
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Best Debut Game
First game/project of a game studio located in the Netherlands.
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Best Audio
Sponsored by Audiokinetic
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.
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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.
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Best Technology
Best use of hardware/software technology in game development. Pushing the boundaries and showing the path forward in innovative and optimal use of game tech.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Notice: Every game submission will automatically be considered for Best Game.
Special Awards
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Inclusion
Given to an initiative, person, organization or company that has significant impact in improving inclusivity for the game industry.
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Best Studio
This award is not about making the best games, but more about being the best place to make games. Criteria include employee health/benefits, creative environment, good leadership, teamwork.
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Best in Business
Best worldwide business success realised in the past year by a Dutch game, project or company.
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Career Achievement
Given to a person who has made a significant contribution to the Dutch game industry, either through their leadership, guidance, or their projects.
Know an individual or studio that deserves special recognition?
Nominate for Special Award »