The gaming awards season is approaching a crucial phase, with several prestigious ceremonies set to celebrate the year’s best titles. The landscape contrasts sharply with the film industry, where precursor awards lead up to the Oscars. In gaming, the primary event, The Game Awards, typically occurs in December, followed by a series of subsequent ceremonies. Notably, Clair Obscur, developed by Sandfall Interactive and published by Kepler Interactive, is positioned for further accolades after its strong showing at The Game Awards.
Upcoming Awards and Their Significance
The first major event on the horizon is the DICE Awards, scheduled for February 12, 2025. Unlike The Game Awards, which are voted on by critics, the DICE Awards are determined by the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, consisting of industry professionals. This awards ceremony is known for its close alignment with The Game Awards, often selecting the same winners. This year, Clair Obscur and Ghost of Yōtei lead the nominations, each with eight nods. The potential for Clair Obscur to secure the Game of the Year title seems high, although nominations for Dispatch, Arc Raiders, and Blue Prince suggest the possibility of surprises.
Following the DICE Awards, the IGF Awards, set for March 11, will showcase the independent gaming sector. This ceremony emphasizes innovative and unique titles, diverging from mainstream norms. Leading the nominations this year is Baby Steps, with five nominations, including a chance at the Seumas McNally Grand Prize. The outcomes here are less predictable, and games like Blippo+ and Horses could also emerge as winners.
Other Notable Awards to Watch
The GDC Awards are scheduled for March 12, taking place during the Game Developers Conference. These awards, voted on by game creators and industry editors, tend to reflect a balance between mainstream and indie titles. While they often align with The Game Awards, recent years have seen a rise in independent games receiving the spotlight. Clair Obscur is again a frontrunner, nominated in eight categories alongside titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and Split Fiction.
Finally, the BAFTA Games Awards, occurring on April 17, offer a unique perspective in the awards landscape. With a comprehensive evaluation process involving specialist jury panels, BAFTA often selects winners that differ from other ceremonies. Although the nominees will be announced on March 12, the longlist indicates that Clair Obscur is in contention. However, the unpredictable nature of BAFTA could see Blue Prince taking home the Game of the Year award.
As the awards season unfolds, all eyes will be on the various ceremonies to see how they reflect the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. With each ceremony offering its distinct flavor, the potential for unexpected winners remains high, making this an exciting time for both developers and gamers alike.
