Serious game design intern

Do you believe games can change the world? At Grendel, we do. Whether we’re helping surgeons refine their skills, teaching kids about sustainability, or making rehabilitation exercises fun, we create Serious Games that leave a lasting impact. If you’re a passionate game design student eager to craft meaningful experiences, we’d love to have you on board as our Serious Game Design Intern.

About Grendel

At Grendel, we push the boundaries of what games can achieve. As a pioneer in Serious Games, we have developed award-winning titles that blend entertainment with real-world impact. For nearly two decades, we’ve been driven by a passion for games, a commitment to high product quality, and the belief that games can be a force for good. We value creativity, innovation, and personal growth, encouraging our team to develop their skills while making a difference.

Position Details

Period: 5 months / 20 weeks, starting in September 2025

Work hours: full-time, hybrid (3 days in our office in Leeuwarden, 2 days from home)

What You’ll Do

As a Serious Game Design Intern, you will be an active part of our design team, learning how to translate ideas into engaging gameplay experiences. You will:

• Assist in designing game mechanics, loops, and interactions that serve a real-world purpose.
• Prototype and playtest designs to refine user experience and engagement.
• Conduct research on game design principles, player psychology, and industry trends.
• Support the documentation of game concepts, mechanics, and design decisions.
• Collaborate with developers, artists, and stakeholders to bring ideas to life.
• Join team discussions and brainstorming sessions, contributing your creative perspective.

What We’re Looking For

• Currently pursuing a degree in Game Design, Interaction Design, or a related field.
• Strong passion for game design and a keen interest in Serious Games with real-world impact.
• Basic knowledge of game design principles, player motivation, and engagement.
• Familiarity with game engines (Unity preferred) and an eagerness to learn more.
• Ability to think critically and problem-solve in a structured manner.
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively.
• Enthusiasm to learn, take initiative, and contribute creatively to projects.

What We Offer

• A hands-on learning experience in a professional, award-winning game studio.
• Mentorship from experienced game designers who are passionate about their craft.
• The opportunity to work on real-world projects with meaningful impact.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment where your ideas matter.
• A unique workspace in a historic Dutch prison turned game studio.
• A potential stepping stone into a career in game design.

How to Apply

Excited to design games that make a difference? Apply before 16th May via jobs@grendelgames.com. In addition to your CV, we would also like to receive a motivation letter and (a link to) your portfolio, showcasing your grasp of the skills mentioned above. Please note that applications without all three components will not be considered.

Join us in crafting games with purpose and take the first step toward a career in Serious Game Design!