Game of the Year Nominees Unveiled
The nominees for this year’s Game of the Year have been announced, and the lineup is stirring quite the conversation among enthusiasts. Clair Obscur Expedition 33, the debut RPG from Sandfall, has secured its place as a frontrunner, earning accolades from both critics and players alike. Its inclusion on our list of the best RPGs speaks volumes about its impact, rivaling even the prestigious recognition from The Game Awards.
However, the nominations also feature some unexpected entries and notable omissions. For instance, while Dogubomb’s puzzler was not anticipated to make the cut for the top honor, several indie titles have indeed garnered attention. Joining Clair Obscur Expedition 33 in the Game of the Year race are Hades 2 and Hollow Knight: Silksong, both of which have captivated audiences with their unique gameplay and storytelling.
As we delve deeper into the nominees, the final three spots are filled by Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, and the surprising inclusion of Donkey Kong Bananza. The recognition for Kingdom Come is particularly gratifying, especially since it launched early in the year, while Death Stranding continues to maintain its relevance in the gaming landscape.
On the other hand, Donkey Kong Bananza has raised eyebrows, as feedback from players has been lukewarm at best. Many found it to be a decent experience, yet it fell short of the groundbreaking innovation expected from the creators of Mario Galaxy.
Notably absent from the nominations are Ghost of Yotei, along with late bloomers Battlefield 6 and Arc Raiders. Some may express disappointment over the exclusion of Split Fiction, but I find solace in my critical stance on the title, which struggles with its narrative and relies heavily on references to established intellectual properties while advocating for creativity.
Despite its omissions, Battlefield 6 has received nods in categories such as best audio design, best action game, and best multiplayer, with Arc Raiders also being recognized in the multiplayer category. However, it is Clair Obscur Expedition 33 that stands out, boasting an impressive 12 nominations across all categories, including three for its voice performances—a record-breaking achievement for the ceremony.
In the Games for Impact category, several indie titles close to my heart have also been acknowledged, including Despelote and Consume Me. For those eager to participate in the voting process, the Game of the Year website is now live. As for me, I already know where my vote will go—do you?
