Dutch Game Week, November 27 – December 4

Date
8 November 2025

Breda, vibrant hub of the Dutch and international games industry

From November 27 to December 4, 2025, Breda will, for the third consecutive year, be the vibrant hub of the Dutch and international games industry. The city will host a diverse program featuring talks, showcases, workshops, esports tournaments, and the presentation of the Dutch Game Awards.

Dive into the World of Play

Dutch Game Week showcases the full spectrum of the gaming industry — from artistic development and technological innovation to social impact and emerging talent. The event caters to both professionals and the general public, offering developer and investor meet-ups as well as accessible workshops for all ages.

With an increasing focus on serious gaming, Dutch Game Week highlights that games are not just for entertainment — they can also serve educational, training, or behavioral purposes.

“Whether you’re a developer, publisher, entrepreneur, student, or passionate fan, this conference is the place to network, learn, and explore the future of gaming,” says Leon van Rooij, founder of Playgrounds and initiator of Dutch Game Week. “Games are no longer merely entertainment. They are a powerful medium to explore social issues, develop skills, and tell stories.”

During the Dutch Game Week Conference on December 3 and 4, international studios, creative pioneers, and leading thinkers will share their insights and work through talks, panels, portfolio reviews, and game demos.

Dutch Game Awards: the Oscars of the Dutch games industry

One of the highlights is the presentation of the Dutch Game Awards on December 3 at Chassé Theater. These prestigious awards, an initiative of the Dutch Game Association, celebrate the best Dutch games and the most inspiring initiatives in the sector each year.

Across thirteen categories, today’s creators and tomorrow’s talents will be recognized and celebrated.

“As the national trade association, we’re delighted that the Municipality of Breda is shining such a powerful spotlight on games. This commitment to sustainably supporting the sector elevates not only Brabant’s, but the entire Dutch games industry.”

Martine Spaans, General Manager of the Dutch Game Association.

Spotlight on the Dutch indie scene

Dutch Game Week offers a strong platform for independent Dutch game developers. From major studios like Guerrilla Games to independent creators like Vlambeer, the Dutch gaming scene has long demonstrated its creative reach. During the week, emerging creators will have the opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience and industry leaders. Visitors can gain inspiration on how groundbreaking games can be made with limited resources.

Games as art and agents of change

During Dutch Game Week, visitors can experience Gay Simulator, a VR project by Iris van der Meule. This colorful yet confronting game introduces players to the challenges faced by lesbian women. Featuring levels, “Pride Points,” and a Hall of Fame, the game combines fun with awareness — showing how games can foster inclusion and social dialogue. Visitors can try the demo during the Playgrounds Conference of Art & Design, where Sasha Lewis (Twirlbound) will also share her vision on creative game design.

Breda: the gaming capital  

It’s no coincidence that Dutch Game Week takes place in Breda. The city is home to internationally renowned institutions such as BUas and Avans Creative Innovation, ensuring a steady influx of new talent.

“Breda is a city full of creativity and technological innovation. With Dutch Game Week, we’re showing that our game industry has international appeal. This week provides a stage for talent, stimulates new collaborations, and strengthens the visibility of games as a vital creative sector,” says Carla Kranenborg – van Eerd, Alderman for the Municipality of Breda.

Partners

Dutch Game Week is an initiative by Playgrounds, in collaboration with Province of North Brabant, Municipality of Breda, BUas, Avans, De Rooi Pannen, Nieuwe Veste, Dynasty Esports, Breda Game City, and Breda Marketing.

The full program will be available at www.dutchgameweek.nl