Team Cherry may not attend The Game Awards even though Silksong is nominated for GOTY, but they’re pretty sure a different ‘exceptional and broadly palatable’ game will win

Hollow Knight: Silksong has emerged as one of the most anticipated games of the year, captivating the gaming community after years of speculation and excitement. However, the creators at Team Cherry express a sense of uncertainty regarding its chances of securing the coveted Game of the Year (GOTY) title at The Game Awards. In a recent interview with Jason Schreier for Bloomberg, developer Ari Gibson shared insights into the game’s reception, noting that Silksong occupies a precarious position: “on that knife’s edge, where it appeals to some and infuriates others.”

Competition Among Giants

As Silksong stands alongside notable contenders like Death Stranding 2 and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 for the prestigious award, Team Cherry remains grounded in their expectations. Gibson’s comments came in response to a question about their attendance at the awards ceremony. While the competition is fierce, the developers are not overly optimistic about clinching the top honor.

The game’s challenging nature has sparked varied reactions among players and critics alike. In a review by Tyler Colp for PC Gamer, Silksong received a commendable score of 90, yet Colp described the experience as a “Sisyphean exercise,” highlighting the intense difficulty that characterizes the gameplay. In contrast, Expedition 33 offers a more accessible experience, featuring a breezy story mode and relegating its toughest challenges to optional boss fights. This design choice allows players to engage with the game at their own pace, making it particularly inviting for newcomers.

While both games incorporate parrying mechanics, Silksong’s approach demands a higher level of skill without the safety net of an easy mode. As the gaming community eagerly awaits the outcome of The Game Awards, the spotlight may also shine on Sekiro, which has set a high bar for challenging gameplay.

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Team Cherry may not attend The Game Awards even though Silksong is nominated for GOTY, but they're pretty sure a different 'exceptional and broadly palatable' game will win