National Geographic Explore VR
GAMEPLAY DESIGNER - INTERN - Forcefield
During Dana's internship at Forcefield, she was involved in various aspects of gameplay design:
-
Streamlining game flow and mechanics.
-
Designing and implementing gameplay assignments. Dialogue and quests.
-
Receiving positive feedback for dedication and creative problem-solving.
-
Contributing effectively to team projects and demonstrating rapid learning and adaptation.
GAMEPLAY DESIGNER - INTERN - Solo project
Dana undertook an independent VR project aimed at addressing public speaking anxiety:
-
Conceptualized and developed a VR application incorporating anxiety management techniques.
-
Designed and implemented interactive mini-games based on research findings.
-
Gained insights into user experience design and project management.
-
Although unreleased, the project showcased Dana's initiative and research-driven approach to design challenges.
Captain Starshot
TECHNICAL - GAMEPLAY DESIGNER - School project
Dana supported the technical gameplay implementation team. When she joined this team, there were many legacy systems. She helped to update the systems. This project was made with UE4. She worked in Blueprints and implemented many new gameplay elements and tested them. She dedicated herself to improving this gameplay in space. Using paper and the engine. She made the space-combat consistent with the on-foot combat.
GAMEPLAY DESIGNER - INTERMEDIATE - nDREAMS
At nDreams, Dana contributed significantly to enhancing gameplay experiences. Key responsibilities included:
-
Collaborating closely with the team to refine game flow and mechanics.
-
Designing and implementing engaging gameplay features. Focused on enemy design.
-
Conducting extensive playtesting and iteration to ensure optimal player experience.
EXPERIENCE
2022- now
LECTURER GAME DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
BREDA UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCE
Buas is where it all started. Dana was given the opportunity to give back some of the knowledge she gathered over the years. To work with the new stars of the industry is a humbling experience.
2024
2020-2022
GAMEPLAY DESIGN
EXPERIENCED
NDREAMS (VR)
nDreams, one of the VR strongholds in the world. At nDreams Dana was able to experience how working at the forefront of VR game development is. She is working on a currently unannounced project.
She works as gameplay and AI designer.
Master in Game Technology
Master of Science
2019-2020
GAME DESIGNER
INTERN
FORCE FIELD (VR)
Dana was an intern at Forcefield for 6 months. Here she got the chance to measure herself according to industry standards. The experience was invaluable and made her she was ready for the industry. She looks back at her time there with many happy feelings.
She worked as a general designer. She got in contact with many parts of the project. Dana did both technical implementation of features as writing out gameflow.
2016-2020
CREATIVE MEDIA AND GAME TECHNOLOGIES/
INTERNATIONAL GAME ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
BACHELOR, BUAS
The bachelor was where a hobby got transformed into a job. Dana had a great time making friends and exploring games during the study. During her study, she studied multiple parts of the design production pipeline. Dana build a brought base she uses as a gameplay designer on a daily basis.
.png)
OTHER PROJECTS
CONTACT
Feel free to contact me with any questions.
Languages: Dutch and English.
Breda, the Netherlands
ABOUT DANA
I bring deep technical expertise and genuine enthusiasm to game development education. With specialized knowledge in Unreal Engine 5 and Blueprint architecture, I focus on systematic, research-driven approaches that help students understand why games work, not just how to build them. I'm committed to continuous learning—staying current with evolving technology and game design theory is essential in an industry that never stands still.
Creating a supportive learning environment is core to my teaching philosophy. I believe that understanding the fundamentals and fostering honest, constructive feedback leads to better outcomes for everyone involved. Whether it's challenging project work or complex technical implementation, I maintain that the process should be engaging and growth-oriented—because sustainable success comes from both technical excellence and healthy collaboration.
