The purpose of the project LABOURGAMES is to scrutinize the dichotomy between work and play. The project’s overall objective is to generate new perspectives on the current labour system in Europe in a playful way by creating both, self-developed games and an in-depth investigation on game mechanics in the world of work.The project is comprised of five consecutive components: RESEARCH, GAME JAMS, GAME DEVELOPMENT, ANCHOR EVENTS and the production of an E-BOOK. The European project consortium works in collaboration with associated strategic partners, which consists of art institutions, research facilities, the world’s largest trade union IG Metall, employment agencies, and others. Moreover, it will evolve a European network, in which different sectors and various experts come together. This will develop an ongoing exploration of the productive connection between the spheres of »play« and »work«, identifying ethical, cultural and legal questions in the process. An ADVISORY BOARD, consisting of game developers, labour market experts, economists and scientists, will accompany the project throughout its life-time. The specific aims of the project in respect to the priorities of the Culture sub-programme are (1) to include various audience groups in the co-creation of labour-related games and (2) to encourage artists and cultural players to explore new product development strategies and management models, in order to foster entrepreneurial skills.The key component is a series of four LABOUR GAME JAMS in DE, UK, EL and NL in 2017, aimed at developing 40 preliminary ideas for games. At least four of the games will be part of a professional development process which will lead to concrete game products. In order to generate a broad impact, the games will be played and tested at ANCHOR EVENTS in 2018, such as Game Festivals or Trade Union Youth Gatherings.An OPENING CONFERENCE in Berlin (Oct 2016) and a RELEASE CONFERENCE in Rome (April 2019) will frame the project.