Time to plug in and Game on: The nominations and Predictions of Game Awards 2025

 

And now back for the 3rd year in the row, the only person insane enough to keep doing this as a yearly tradition now, please welcome Sam Harrison

Well thank you, thank you very much for that warm welcome. Yes hello again to all of you fine and fair people across the interwebs and video platforms. Yes as it has been seen I have returned for the 3rd time once again to provide with you another swing and discussion of delving into the opinions and the ideals of predictions of the 2025 edition of the now annual Game Awards where this year seems to be a bit more of a difficult outcome year as compared to last year with it more in DLC and Indie game domination, there is quite a bigger selection of massive AAA titles and Indie Darlings that have flexed their muscles and have come togetherfor another year and these selections will be seeing what will come from the ordeal of predicting who will take home the statuete on the night. And of course as well it may not be all the categories (but will still give a quick prediction on some I don't know too much on) but I will also delve into the discussion on some titles and games I predict may get a new look or hope to be revealed throughout the event as well as see if there is any issues that could be fixed at this years that popped up over the last few shows. But I think we have done enough explaining and introductions, so lets get to the categories and work backwards all the way to the big award of the night. So lets begin.

The People that keep us sane: Best Content Creator (Plus E-Sport Noms)

So this first section is one that I normally don't have too much to focus on and that is usually in the area of the E-Sports sector, as one that doesn't overly watch the content of those I can still appreciate the groups that play and practice their way to victory or prove they are the best overall in certain games and while I can't say much on each section, to give a quick stab in the dark of my choices would be as such

Best E-Sports Game: League of Legends or Counter Strike

Best E-sports Team: Liquid PH

Best E-Sports Player: Zywoo or Forsaken

These are ones I would not have too much knowledge in and feel its likely a case they seem like the logical winners but I don't know. But anyways, we start the first one I can give a focus on and that is in the content creator as they may have different areas of appeal and different audiences but these 5 are seen as the strongest and highlights from this year and they are

CAEDRAL

KAI CENAT

MOISTCRITIKAL

SAKURA MIKO

THE BURNT PEANUT

So all of these have their appeal in the field and each have some appealing qualities and while I am certain many of them have their appeal, I feel it may be down to the likes of Cenat or Charlie as either of them are probably the more well known figures, they have a presence that many respect and enjoy engaging in their content with and I see either having a strong chance in winning overall. I am sure the other 3 are lovely and entertaining people and may be the case of knowing these 2 more but I am going with them for the moment but I am sure whoever gets it is highly deserving of the role

Creator Winner: MoistCritikal or Kai Cenat

What to look forward to next: Most Anticipated Game

Now while most of these awards are for the games of the last 12 months that have entertained, complained and debated about, this 2nd award of the category in focus is for the ones that will be ones that many are more looking forward to, anticipating, excited and all for getting our hands on at various prices (and hopefully not tweaked by the changing of tarriff prices) and these 5 are chosen as some of the most anticipated which include

007 FIRST LIGHT (IOI INTERACTIVE)

GRAND THEFT AUTO VI (ROCKSTAR)

MARVEL'S WOLVERINE (INSOMNIAC GAMES)

RESIDENT EVIL REQUIEM (CAPCOM)

THE WITCHER IV (CD PROJEKT RED)

I Mean..... do I even really need to say which one of these will win cause its obvious from the demand and anticipation for this follow up which is of course Resident Evil. I kid I kid, that would be in my top 3 choices alongside the angry Canadian man, but we all know that even through the delays and other stuff that its a tough contest to go against the next entry of GTA and would be surprised that this loses

Winner choice: Grand Theft Auto 6

Runner Up: Marvel's Wolverine, Resident Evil Requiem

From Controller to mixed media: Best Adaptation

Now before we actually get into the talking of the actual games, we need to talk on the ones that have been adapted into other media beyond having control of the characters and this is of course with the medium of film and television and it seems that while one is missing, we do have a selection of 5 choices to choose from and they are

A Minecraft Movie (Warner Bros)

Devil May Cry (Netflix)

Splinter Cell: Deathwatch (Netflix)

The Last of Us Season 2 (HBO)

Until Dawn (Sony)

Now I did say there was one missing and it is one that I felt they could've easily been an extra nomination and one that many feel would've been a better choice then one or 2 of these and that is of course the 3rd Sonic the Hedgehog film as it released after last years event and would fit the criteria for this year so I question why. But if its a case that I feel its unlikley to be a surprise entry, I feel it will come down to 2 in particular due to the demand and discussion of these projects this year with the first being the follow up of the acclaimed HBO adaption of Last of Us that while Season 2 has been a bit more of a mixed outcome compared to the first, it has still seen some appeal and acclaim and likely will work better with the upcoming season to connect that story and the other is the world's most popular sandbox game of Minecraft after it made bank at the box office, meme potential and the living nightmare for Ushers and Cinema staff cleaning up the mess but I see it as one of those 2 taking that title overall and if Sonic had a chance in it as well I would've seen it as the 3 way battle of those.

Winner: The Last of Us Season 2

Runner up winner option: A Minecraft Movie

Providing play for everyone: Best Innovation and Accessibility

Now if there is one thing that has seen with a change and focus every year has been the case of games trying to help become more of a thing and appeal to more people and one way that they do that is with games becoming more accessible and help those that may have a bit more of a difficult outcome when it comes to playing games and it seems with these 5 titles are the ones that have went above and beyond from this year to help make them easier for difficult outcomes with those nominees being

ASSASSINS CREED SHADOWS

ATOMFALL

DOOM: THE DARK AGES

EA SPORTS FC 26

SOUTH OF MIDNIGHT

Now most of these games may provide the usual elements of bigger text and on screen narration for those with hearing or sight difficulties but I see it as being a case of 2 titles that could appeal in some elements of helping those that may not be the most verse in games or want to play titles like these but may have a hidden or noticeable disability and I see it with either the latest AC title having the most diverse list of accessibility options for helping with hard of reading, blindness and assistance in other forms of difficulty or those with a fear of Hemophobia in the aspects of blood or dismemberment and the other I would appeal with would be some similar aspects of those being provided with the new narrative title of South of Midnight and I feel it would be well worth a win for either of them in this category and I do hope we will see more studios and big AAA games take that approach and make games more accessible to all if possible.

Winner: South of Midnight

Runner Up: Assassin's Creed Shadows

Good to play with others: Best Multiplayer Game

Now of course there are some games that you may be all for playing on your own, in the likes of those that go in the realm of storytelling, but there is a case that there is always room to have a friend or 2 whether on the couch or across the vast areas of the information superhighway to allow those to play together and while there is plenty that provide it, it has been provided a sense of these 5 being seen as the strongest of this year with those nominees being

ARC RAIDERS

BATTLEFIELD 6

ELDEN RING NIGHTREIGN

PEAK

SPLIT FICTION

All of these I can for sure see some appeal and acclaim in many forms from you affair of looter shooters and boots on the ground combat or a 3 team clan working together to save a land affected by a fog, but if I have to give the appeal of what I see as maybe being a possible strongest competition besides the appeal of Arc I see it may come down to either Peak or Split Fiction as with Peak this was all over the socials and YouTube in the Summer months and start of Fall from what I saw and have played a bit of (and I call out to my good friends and say when is that Peak session happening, we said we were going to play and I am waiting for it to happen) and they still provide many new updates and features all the time when possible and as for SF, this comes to this studio being a Game Awards darling with the last game they made being a Game of the Year winner and has seen many acclaim of a story co-op adventure across genres and realities and I can either of these games maybe having that slight edge to appeal and win but would not count out Arc getting a chance on the basis of being a more recent title but I hope its one of those first 2 options personally.

Winner choice: Peak or Split Fiction

Other Runner Up: Arc Raiders

going fast and gaming strats: Best Sports / racing game

Now the next award will be seeing us either starting the engines or lacing up our boots cause its time for things to get either physical or very fast as its the section of the focus on the best titles of the year in the realm of Sports or Racing and in the focus of the nominees for this year are:

EA SPORTS FC 26

F1 25

MARIO KART WORLD

REMATCH

SONIC RACING CROSSWORLDS

So there is a case that many a game can have their appeal such as the good majority of people in the UK and Ireland every September getting the newest Football game from EA, playing it non stop for about 2 weeks and then say its not as good as it was last year, still play it fully and then buy the next entry of the series next year and the cycle continues. To me, I think what it will come down to is the classic rivalry of the 90s of the newest racing titles of Mario and Sonic being the one that will be the battle overall that while each has their appeal from the love of the Mario Kart franchise with the new features of 24 opponent races, items and open world or sonic with the multi dimensional races and many crossover characters and stages to race upon that I see it as being either one. Likely I see Sonic getting the slight edge over Mario as its more accessible (and a case many will hope Nintendo Walks away with nothing, though I don't mind the smaller wins for them) I still see it as a race and photo finish for one of gaming's well known rivalries.

Winner: Mario Kart World or Sonic Racing: Crossworlds

Just like the Simulations: Best Sim / Strategy game

Now while the last titles were more of be the best and be the fastest, there is one other element to it that does come into discussion and that is the approach to plan out a strategy wither as to plan a battle, a business or make sure it does not end in a bloodbath as we will be seeing the ideals of mundane tasks or changing a story or history in the focus of Sim Strategy games and these were the titles that stood out the most overall this year with them being:

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - THE INVALICE CHRONICLES

JURASSIC WORLD EVOLUTION 3

SID MEIER'S CIVILIZATION VII

TEMPEST RISING

THE ALTERS

TWO POINT MUSEUM

This one does have quite the array of options to choose from in the ideals of a game of combat, high fantasy, history, curators of history, clones or dinosaurs and there is quite the array and appeal. If I had to say ones that may appeal the most or see as the top three I see the popular games of Sid Meier's making a focus of a possible win like many other titles in this franchise has seen in the past, the latest remaster of Final Fantasy Tactics may bring the appeal back to the fans that loved the original version or introduce a whole new wave to this entry and Jurassic world cause who doesn't like Dinosaurs and want to run the Dino park of their dreams and I see either of these 3 being the most likely or most known to have a strong chance to make it the overall appealing entry to win with a clear strategy.

Winners: Civilization VII or Jurassic World Evolution 3

Runner up: Final Fantasy Tactics the Invalice Chronicles

Something more lighter for everyone: Best Family Game

Sometimes with games they can be a bit too overly daunting, scary, difficult or maybe too violent for some and it could be the case that maybe now and again we can have some titles that is a little more lighter in tone that still provide a little challenge in the process and this is where the family game category comes into focus as we have 6 titles battling it out to prove which reigned supreme in the family game night approach with those games being

DONKEY KONG BANANZA

LEGO PARTY

LEGO VOYAGERS

MARIO KART WORLD

SONIC RACING CROSSWORLDS

SPLIT FICTION

So they all have some form of appeal and focus in their elements that may appeal from the already discussed rivalry in the racing scene or the blending of genre's in a co-op adventure or an option of little pieces on a big journey or a battle to see who is the ultimate Minifigure, and while I see 2 previous titles as strong contenders, I think for me this will be one that will likely be the sole possible clean win for Nintendo with the big Kong himself as its the first solo adventure and in 3D since the late 90s and the title has seen great appeal, charm and fun to be had and getting to smash every surface of the world is always good fun and have been enjoying my time with the title. Sure I can see the blue blur or the Splitting of Fiction having a chance but I do see this may be the win for good old DK.

Winner: Donkey Kong Bananza or Sonic Racing Crossworlds

Runner Up: Split Fiction

Let the aggression out: Best Fighting Game

Have you had some aggression you want to get out or an array of emotions that you have bottled up and just need a way to let them all out, well I see this next category of helping with that greatly as we are now entering the arena of fighting games and these titles all have an array of providing a fair or dirty fight and those games include

2XKO

CAPCOM FIGHTING COLLECTION 2

FATAL FURY: CITY OF THE WOLVES

MORTAL KOMBAT LEGACY KOLLECTION

VIRTUA FIGHTER R.E.V.O WORLD STAGE

So in this instance with the fighting titles, there is a weird approach to this as a lot of them are mainly in the focus of titles that releases a year or 2 ago or are ones that are made up of compilation packs of previous game titles and it was a weird option to choose from that I tried as best I could to make a choice with these. I felt in the case that while your Capcom fighters and Mortal Kombats have their appeal, I felt it may be well worth some other classic series like Fatal Fury or even a possible newcomer like 2XKO to get their chance and appeal and hope for a win with them. Sure I could be off completely and those collections provide more of the appeal, but I guess we can see in due time.

Winner: 2XKO or Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

Better then LARPing in a park: Best RPG

Now for these next games have always made a case that we know sometimes the real world can be tedious, monotonous and a fair bit boring, but what if there was a way to take you from our world and put you in the realm of giant monsters, high fantasy or even the far reaches of space. Well you could do some roleplay in a park or over a game of DND with mates, but in this case we are talking on the genre of RPGs and it seems with these 5 titles they seem to appeal the strongest with these games being

AVOWED

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33

KINGDOM COME DELIVERANCE II

MONSTER HUNTER WILDS

THE OUTER WORLDS 2

Now while I was looking at this list and working my ideals to this all, there was a game that I was wondering if it was initially given a chance to be an option on the list and that was the remake of Oblivion, but I felt maybe cause it was a remake of a 20 year old title that it may have went against it but I would've seen it as a solid 6th game option. But besides that I can see it going between a sense of a more recent title of Outer Worlds, Kingdom come could also have a chance given its surprise presence in some of these locations, but I think this will be one of the first big wins for the most nominated of the event with Clair Obscur getting the title, but it will be down to see if that does come about but I feel that may be the RPG to beat this year but those other 2 may be a close 2nd. 

Winner:  Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Runner Up: Kingdom Come Deliverance II or Outer Worlds 2

Exciting journey's of events: Best Action Adventure Game

Now many a journey of game titles can have their sense of being all out craziness and full of events happening left right and center, but sometimes in this case while that is important, it also comes with a journey and spirit of adventure and it looks with these titles that sense of action adventure may do just that and appeal overall with those being:

DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH

GHOST OF YOTEÍ

HOLLOW KNIGHT: SILKSONG

INDIANA JONES AND THE GREAT CIRCLE

SPLIT FICTION

Now in this instance I do have a clear focus in this project that I feel in terms of action and adventure and for the long wait being worth it, if there was ever a title to win this I feel Silksong is due its flowers (the first of a few). There is a bit of a mixed debate as well of possible runner up focus in this as I feel Ghost of Yoteí has a solid choice from its story of revenge across a beautiful landscape journey and initially I felt it with Death Stranding 2, but I think for that latter one I may need to alter that runner up and go with the whip cracking archaeologist instead as it perfectly encapsulates an action adventure all in one but if to give a focus I feel the long wait for Silksong may just give it that edge

Winner: Hollow Knight Silksong or Ghost of Yoteí

Runner Up: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

Go big and go boom: Best Action Game

But if the likes of Adventure does not suit your fancy and you would much rather be running, gunning and blowing things up in many different ways, then perhaps the focus of the best Action games may do just that and I feel it will be quite the array to choose from here with those nominations being

BATTLEFIELD 6

DOOM: THE DARK AGES

HADES II

NINJA GAIDEN 4

SHINOBI: ART OF VENGEANCE

So there is a selection of choice here from the likes boots on the ground combat, underworld battles, demon smashing and the way of the Ninja and each has their appeal and to me I feel that it may be in the realm of the titles that have some focus or involvement with the underworld that may be the major focus of success here with either the newest entry of Doom or the long awaited sequel to Hades as the strongest, with the latter maybe just slightly beating it out but both still very solid options for the purpose of all out action. I feel in the case of the title that could have a chance of a runner up could be the newest Battlefield as that has proven their efforts over the last few weeks so I am sure it could have a chance but I feel it may be the battle of a Doom Slayer or an underworld god.

Winner: Hades II or Doom the Dark Ages

Runner Up: Battlefield 6

Another realm of reality: Best VR/AR title

Now for the more Niche based products in focus for this next one as I feel it may be time to enter a new way to play these games (or may be a requirement) as its time we time on the games of the Virtual Reality style as these 5 have proven their worth as the strongest of this year which include

ALIEN ROGUE INCURSION

ARKEN AGE

GHOST TOWN

MARVEL'S DEADPOOL VR

THE MIDNIGHT WALK

All of them have their own sense of appeal from a stop motion FPS, a spooky horror of G-G-G-Ghosts, Monsters to battle, the powerful organisms of the far cosmos and of course a foul mouthed Superhero and it is a case I feel that maybe the recency of Deadpool may affect that option (and given as well this was added and nominated even before the game released a few days after these nominations were revealed). If its a case that its too recent and many have not had a chance to properly decide on that working, then I can see the likes of two others as a possible winner or runner up and that is with the likes of Alien being what feels like a new take follow up to Isolation from its look and approach until that proper sequel releases and the likes of Midnight Walk that looks really visually appealing, has a nice aesthetic and style of the stop motion and just seems like a solid contender to win. So if the likes of the Merc with a Mouth may be a little too short of notice to decide on a win then those other 2 I see as another option for VR win.

Winner: Marvel's Deadpool VR or The Midnight Walk

Runner Up: Alien Rogue Incursion

Pocket full of pixels: Best Mobile Game

But if you don't want to play on your big bulky consoles or maybe cannot afford a portable one like a Steam Deck or Switch 1 or 2, then I would say this next category may appeal to you more as it does bring the question that their is also a market of games to play on the tech item that is always attached to you in the form of Mobile games, (unless the case you don't and wonder you guys don't have phones) but these 5 seem to be the strongest of appeal for this games on the go which include:

DESTINY RISING

PERSONA 5: THE PHANTOM X

SONIC RUMBLE

UMAMUSUME: PRETTY DERBY

WUTHERING WAVES

Each of these titles do have their fans and do have their niche styles and genres to play and appeal across and while I can't say much on the likes of each title myself, I feel that this one may be a solid take for Wuthering Waves as its the most well known and these types of games, like Genshin Impact, that I see having the broader appeal. If I had to choose one that is seen as possible runner up, then I would not say no the likes of Sonic Rumble having that chance given that his Mobile port games have seen a fair bit of success over the years from many different releases so I can see either one being the game that appeals the most and probably drain your phone battery the quickest.

Winner Options: Wuthering Waves or Sonic Rumble

Taking care of their fans: Best Community support

Now on these next titles are ones that have already been released over the last few years, but these have the focus where it is still given new additions and updates in many forms and brings the community together in solidarity from the overall process in the ways that many games strive to and for those that are seen with the best Community support are as follows:

BALDUR'S GATE 3

FINAL FANTASY XIV

FORTNITE

HELLDIVERS 2

NO MAN'S SKY

These games have shown that just cause the game has released, got great acclaim and have shown appeal back then that they were not going to just leave it without providing more for the fans and while many have had their share or may not be overly seen as much, I feel the possible strongest of the titles could be Game of the Year Darling of Baldurs Gate or the battle royale juggernaut of Fortnite, but if the case of the latter doesn't get the run here, I could see it with the next title but I guess we will see of those 2 being the likely winner.

Winner: Baldur's Gate 3 or Fortnite

So Much New, So Much to see: Best Ongoing Game

Now comparatively with the last award, while community support is one that I see as being connected with this, it also comes with the benefit that some games may be a packaged deal on its own but some will continue to be given new features and updates and with these 5 nominations these have proven in that aspect of ones that have shown that being kept ongoing has proven to be a success with those being

FINAL FANTASY XIV

FORTNITE

HELLDIVERS 2

MARVEL RIVALS

NO MAN'S SKY

As I alluded to in the previous category I said the case if the latter title was not to win that other title then I see the likes of Fortnite probably getting this win in this category as they seem to have new releases, skins, characters and chapters every couple of days and seems to have a fanbase coming back every few days or so, So I see that as a possibility of a win. I initially also felt that Final Fantasy was one to prove their worth but I feel that its had it share and could be a top 3 option and then felt one that has still seen a lot of appeal and boost with new heroes and skin types is with the new game of Marvel Rivals and has seen a lot of appeal back then and now so I see any of these winning but I feel the likely one to obtain it from its constant appearance and chance is with Fortnite.

Winner: Fortnite or Marvel Rivals

Runner up: Final Fantasy XIV

Getting their foot in the door: best Indie Debut

Now its time we take a look at the titles that have the potential of this being the starting career for many of these game makers as we will be seeing their chance to flex their muscles and prove their skills from their debut in the Indie scene and in a case we initially had 5 but its a battle for new new games which include

BLUE PRINCE (DOGUBOMB / RAW FURY)

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33 (SANDFALL INTERACTIVE / KEPLER INTERACTIVE)

DESPELOTE (JULIAN CORDERO / SEBASTIÁN VALBUENA / PANIC)

DISPATCH (ADHOC STUDIO)

Now it is a case that this year there has been a bit of a controversial debate about one of the titles in this and another one that saw the 5th title of this award be taken out (was not for any malice, the developer of Megabonk emphasized that he had made other games before this and politely asked for that game to be removed which seems fair on their end) and the controversy being with Clair Obscur as yes it is an Indie Game debut, but I would harken to reckon that this game would more in the mold of a AAA title then Indie and would be one I would be more against. If anything in this section I see it come down to 2 titles if Clair does not sweep these as well and that is with the game of Blue Prince which was a massive title of discussions and puzzles earlier this year and the more recent title of Dispatch for its episodic Telltale style narrative with appealing characters and cast involved as they were the big talking point indies of the last few months and see them having the strongest aesthetic overall to a win. I say it could go any direction but would be fine with either of them over Clair Obscur and let that latter one get an award from another category.

Winner: Dispatch

Possible Winner: Blue Prince

bigger appeal in smaller groups: Best Indie Game

Now after your debut in the Indie scene, you could be a case that you may go off to bigger success with the likes of heading into a big studio or AAA title soon after, but sometimes you may keep it in the roots of where you started out as the style and appeal may fit you more that way and that is in the case with Indie titles making a splash in this years category with this having a choice of 6 titles eyeing for that trophy which include:

ABSOLUM (GUARD CRUSH GAMES / SUPAMONKS / DOTEMU)

BALL X PIT (KENNY SUN / DEVOLVER DIGITAL)

BLUE PRINCE (DOGUBOMB / RAIN FURY)

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33 (SANDFALL INTERACTIVE / KELPER INTERACTIVE)

HADES II (SUPERGIANT GAMES)

HOLLOW KNIGHT SILKSONG (TEAM CHERRY)

Like I said in the last Indie category, while I can understand E33 being an Indie Title, I feel its fits more in the focus of a AAA title instead from the approach of the game and could see it as a battle for the other 5. Blue Prince would to me be the runner up in the top 3 but I feel it will go down to the 2 indie darlings of Hades and Hollow Knight as the competition of this category as they were the titles that were highly anticipated and I feel if all that time and effort waiting for Silksong gets overlooked then it would feel very questionable in that approach and each offer appeal, expectations met and just an entertainment value overall and could see either winning the title in this category.

Winner: Hollow Knight Silksong or Hades 2

Runner-Up: Blue Prince

Hits you in many different ways: Best Game for impact

Now we all share a different feeling and tone with any of these games and a lot of them do have their appeal in their different approaches but sometimes these games can provide quite an impact in the ways they entertain or leave a lasting approach in the narrative tone and these 5 titles have proven it this year as some of this years strongest in leaving the biggest impact

CONSUME ME (JENNY JIAO HSIA / AP THOMSON / HEXACUTABLE)

DESPELOTE (JULIÁN CORDERO / SEBASTIÁN VALBUENA / PANIC)

LOST RECORDS: BLOOM AND RAGE (DON'T NOD MONTREAL / DON'T NOD)

SOUTH OF MIDNIGHT (COMPULSION GAMES / XBOX GAME STUDIOS)

WANDERSTOP (IVY ROAD / ANNAPURNA ENTERTAINMENT)

Many of these games have many forms of appeal and focus in their difference in impact from games that focus from Adulthood for women in many forms, the life of the developer for the game during a crucial time, themes of messaging for diverse groups, the cultural impact for some of the past and present and a game that takes the cozy game genre and warps it in the focus on ideals of burnout and mental health and each all have their appeal in different ways. Now the one I have seen the most mixed on is Lost records as while the emotional depth and themes of LGBTQ have been the highlight, some have seen it as a disappointing follow up to Life is Strange as well as the basis on the "Woke" messaging in the game (a word that seems to have lost any sense of the meaning from overuse and misuse of the word). In general I am leaning a bit more of the last 2 of South of Midnight and Wanderstop as the strongest as they have some unique appeal and tone in general for all of this and have seen some praise in how they go about it as well as the change of genre with all of it as well and I see a title with deep connections to the history of the culture and how it can move people and the ideals of reflecting on ones personal life and stop and process the issues in life over a nice hot brew may be the ones that leave the strongest of impacts to me.

Winner: South of Midnight

Runner Up: Wanderstop

Acting is not just for films: Best Performance

Now we get down to more of the technical side of things with these awards, but we do have one more that is less tech and more talk as of course some of these titles do have their fair share of performances in focus to it all and it has seen a fair selection in focus for this years nominees with the top six eying the prize being

BEN STARR AS VERSO (CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33)

CHARLIE COX AS GUSTAVE (CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33)

ERICA ISHI AS ATSU (GHOST OF YOTEÍ)

JENNIFER ENGLISH AS MAELLE (CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33)

KONATSU KATO AS HINAKO (SILENT HILL F)

TROY BAKER AS INDIANA JONES (INDIANA JONES AND THE GREAT CIRCLE)

So it seems this year that it is looking one sided heavily in performances in the title of E33 but given that it does have a lot of big name stars attached that it seems likely that it was going to become a challenge to see who will win on top. while the other games performances are nothing to scoff at as they are solid, I feel in this case it may come down to either Charlie or Jennifer as the winner overall and seems that most online have seen the same agreement that it may be from one of these 2 performers. Sure it may be a surprise difference and a different title gets the gold but I am sure we will get a better idea by the event.

Winner: Charlie Cox (Gustave) or Jennifer English (Maelle)- Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Sounds just like the real thing: Best Audio Design

Now we are properly into the focus of some technical or structural elements to a game it starts with the sound to a title that sure you have the nice visuals, but without the sounds it makes it a little eerie and having the balance of the right tone and aesthetic I can see it working in its favour and it seems these 5 games have used them to their most beneficial means with those being

BATTLEFIELD 6

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33

DEATH STRANDING 2: ON THE BEACH

GHOST OF YOTEÍ

SILENT HILL F

Each game their use in some form where it may be noticable like sound cues or the shooting of bullets to the more nuanced like the sounds of the environment reacting to the blowing winds and crashing waves or creepy things that move in the fogs or behind darkened corners that a lot of them have their distinct feel to it all. Now in all sense of things while I am sure Expedition uses sound greatly and see that as the top 3 options, I feel in my own sense of choice, I would be going more that is a bit more to the East of the world and usually see sound working the best in the form of the lush gorgeous environments of ancient Asia with Yoteí or the creepy atmospheric elements of the return to the Silent Hill Franchise that sound and audio works the best for to make you feel your hairs stand up in fear that I see either of them working to really get you into the tone and environment of it all. I see either one having the strongest chance but whether it will be a sense of a sweep with E33 I can't fully tell yet.

Winner: Ghost of Yoteí or Silent Hill F

Runner Up: Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Music Maestro: Best Score and Music

While Audio can have its appeal, it also comes in the case of tone or moment can be amplified better in the form of the musical score of it all from somber moments to amazing fight that a score can really set the tone in motion and it seems with these titles and musicians amplifying many moments across the title which include the following

HOLLOW KNIGHT SILKSONG (MUSIC BY CHRISTOPHER LARKIN)

HADES II (MUSIC BY DARREN KORB)

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33 (MUSIC BY LORIEN TESTARD)

GHOST OF YOTEÍ (MUSIC BY TOMA OTOWA)

DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH (MUSIC BY WOODKID AND LUDVIG FORSSELL)

Each composer took the task and make the focus of their hard work in making many tracks and score of the games stand out in many ways to help to distinguish many tones and styles and setting that the game presents to the player across the runtime. If there is a case I would put it down to in forms of grand scale or moments that stand out I see it come down to Hollow Knight or E33 as the strongest of the group and then Hades not too far behind those as each of them have some form and tone that could be a case of the grand battles and fights you face across the desolate land of Hollow Knight and the vast journey and battles you may face to save the land from the Paintress that each give their tone and style the best it can be given. Not to say all of the scores of these games are not fantastic but they all have their unique appeal in many ways but I see them as the most grand overall.

Winner: Hollow Knight Silksong or Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Runner Up: Hades II

Has a unique style: Best Art Direction

Besides your performances, and your sounds, visuals are also an important factor to any and all types of games and that can be said about the direction of the art and visuals these games may go into and it has seen a variety from the realistic to the distinct style and the colourfully striking aesthetic and these 5 have been proven as some of the best this year has to offer which include

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33

DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH

GHOST OF YOTEÍ

HADES II

HOLLOW KNIGHT SILKSONG

Each have something unique and stylish to provide to the worlds that we may come across from beautiful worlds that may be corrupted by a powerful being with Paint, a world destroyed by a thing known as the strand, a vast luscious part of Japan, the Vast mazes and forms of the underworld or a world corrupted by silk and song that their is something that has to be seen that provide something overall. While I love the rich artistry of the world of E33 and Yoteí, I have to give the appraisal to the artistry of Silksong that was all done and made from a trio of artists at the studio, with much of some of the extra little details provided by freelance artists over the near decade they spent in making it the best they can be and I feel it paid off greatly. while those 2 others have had their appeal, I hae to give it to that trio overall for making something of that wait all the worth it

Winner: Hollow Knight Silksong

Runner Up: Clair Obscur Expedition 33 or Ghost of Yoteí

Has a clear Direction in where it is going: Best Narrative

Now not every title that is nominated at this event will have this but sometimes many game titles from these events will more then often see them take a crack at the form of Narratives where they will have the appeal or may have people engaged from the opening seconds to the closing credits and these 5 titles in focus have been the one to prove to be a bit of a big success in the most structurally solid and engaging narrative which are as follows

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33

DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH

GHOST OF YOTEÍ

KINGDOM COME DELIVERANCE II

SILENT HILL F

Now these titles all have something that at least sets them apart from a realm of a creepy horror in Japan, a time of knights and lords in a mediaeval setting, a revenge narrative to the backdrop of Feudal Japan, the restoring of the world in connections through the power of couriers and package delivery or to save the world from those that have been wiped from existence from a powerful being based on the ages of those they paint and each give something they provide that is seen as engaging, heartfelt, scary or something to make you think after playing through it all. Now I can see in the case that for more in this approach in narrative, I can see Clair Obscur having a solid chance overall in winning this one, though I will not neglect in most case of the mad crazy mind that is mr Kojima with his narrative that initially after a point he had no idea what it was about from the first game and now seems to have a solid base and idea of what it all means and is about with this follow up and it seems like it could be one of these I see as the strongest winner on the narrative.

Winner: Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Runner Up: Death Stranding 2 on the Beach

Head Honcho in control: Best Game Direction

Now when you have these aspects and structures put all together I can see this as being the focus of the ones pulling the reigns in making sure the titles are going in the right direction to success that may have hit some hurdles or bumps in the road but worked through them by the end to create some titles that have show great direction, with the top 5 nominated for this year including

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33

DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH

GHOST OF YOTEÍ

HADES II

SPLIT FICTION

I say that when it comes to direction that when you have something in mind that may seem ambitious or make it as a follow up to something that was seen as that and go even further and it works out better in your favour then I see this as a possible factor of making things work the most in many ways. This I can see where the likes of Clair Obscur may have that chance again to obtain another possible award here as something that essentially came out of nowhere a few months ago and took the gaming scene by storm is really well worth to say something in that aspect and could see it as a possible victory in that aspect. However I also see 2 others having a strong chance in their forms with one being a follow up to an indie darling from a couple of years ago and showed that they improved on what worked and made it even better and then the other would be another game of the year winning studio with Split fiction of a title mixing 2 genres and then going completely wild with the concepts and ideas for it across the games story gives me a case of feeling each of these could work in its favour and could see any of those 3 I mentioned as a contender in proper game direction from this year

Winner: Clair Obscur Expedition 33

Runner Up: Hades II or Split Fiction

The Big One: Game of the Year

And now finally after over 20 plus categories and giving as quick of thoughts and opinions as I could with all of those ones, it is time for the big one, the big title of the night where the best of the best are chosen to prove which of these 6 games will walk away with the coveted Game of the Year title in a year of tough competition and fantastic games, these were the 6 to prove their worth and those nominees are

CLAIR OBSCUR EXPEDITION 33

DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH

DONKEY KONG BANANZA

HADES II

HOLLOW KNIGHT SILKSONG

KINGDOM COME DELIVERANCE II

Now this is one I have culminated back and forth on and got some insight from some others as well and I can see it coming down to a 3 way battle between the Long awaited DLC turned full game of Silksong, The underworld Sequel of Hades and the surprise hit ordeal of Clair Obscur. The other 3 entries are all solid but I see it as a close race with those and it is a case I have noticed a bit of a trend as of late with the  game of the year winners where they seem to always be the best and highest scoring one on Metacritic and going on that analysis it may be with Hades II that may surprisingly win this. This is what I saw the last few years which happened with Astro Bot last year, Baldur's Gate 2 years ago and Elden Ring 3 years ago and as far back as Last of Us Part 2 5 years ago, so I would not say that its out of the race but if anything in this regards I am saying its going down the highly anticipated DLC turned full game, an indie darling sequel or a surprise title of adventure as the 3 way battle to victory this year

Winner Choices: Hollow Knight: Silksong, Hades II, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Some Special Guests: some others possible opinions of nominations?

So that was all of the categories and sections to give a focus on and predict on what was seen as a form of my elaborate or wild predictions for the game awards and I could just go straight onto the issues and predictions of what may be unveiled at the event but in this case I feel it may be well worth to give a little insight into a few other perspectives for this show, as I felt for this case that I decided to give a little bit of an expanding on opinions for this award show and get some insights from others about their opinions and choices for the winners of each category and maybe even some predictions as to what could be announced at the event and the results were unfortunately underwhelming but I got at least 1 or 2 opinions and choices for all of this. While I have heard the likes of the opinions of different choices with the likes of mainly some more of a push for Hollow Knight to be the big winner, and the sense of being against Nintendo Games this year (even though the console has released some bangers this year that I will defend in being good) and I have heard a few for Death Stranding for some award wins so there is a mix and just giving an insight of some choices and opinions from a few. The only one I can see that thankfully gave me was my Friend Alice who gave me their insight into their choice for game of the year and they see it coming down to Hollow Knight, Clair Obscur and Death Stranding as the 3 way battle for the big win with their personal push being for Death Stranding as they haven't played too much on Silksong to really give it a fair comment on it all and for the likes of E33, they specified they really liked it but they see it as winning in the other categories which I do see as a fair and reasonable opinion to it all so I thank them for offering their opinions and choices on it all. Now I did hope for a bit of a longer section here but I appreciate in at least getting like 1 or 2 opinions to all of this and at least I got insight on some and a straight forward answer for another part. I will give this another try next year and get another opinionated insight to all of this but I can see how next years awards turn out by then but still I appreciate some insights overall that I can find 

Some minor technical difficulties to be improved

Now of course in this case it does have a bit of a mixed outcome and there is a case that these events have their share of issues. Now I already delved into the discussion during those 1 or 2 sections talking about the Indie status of Clair Obscur and went against that case but I see the case that it will be more on the night for 2 issues that have sprung up and the other is some bits that occour before hand that I hope we can see have a fix in the future events. In the focus of the ones in the actual show, one big debate that is often discussed and seen as wanting to be improved has to be in the focus of the balance of award wins and announcements. This has been one of an occourance that has been an issue for the last few years as these award shows barely give the winners a chance to thank everyone and rush them off, just for the case that they give Hideo Kojima an extra 10 minutes onto their presentation of whatever he is making at that point in time and its noticeable that most of the event is often made up of the big announcements for new titles but barely give much time to the games and winners. In a 4 hour show which is about the same length as the likes of the Oscars, this is one that does provide a question of giving the winners a little extra time to have their speeches and not be pushed aside when they are halfway through. Now I am not expecting the case of Christopher Judge's 8 minute speech 3 years ago to be the norm but at least give the time and effort for some of those developers and creative to have their say and their thanks to those that paid their money and time to play the titles.

As for the one that is established and an issue that comes in before these award shows, this comes down to the issue of the Jury Bias as well as some have specified about this years one being Rigged in terms of Game of the year. This is the case that about 90% of the vote is done by a Jury that may not be the most versed in games awarded and the other 10% is with public that while yes get the public vote option and get to vote for their favourite, its not as much as the bias that may come from those that are not as versed in this medium. Some streamers and creatives online have emphasized about it seeming riggd and is too corporate (as well as some saying other titles should've been nominated for better awards or more like Arc Raiders, Silent Hill, Ghost of Yoteí, DK Bananza, Blue Prince, Dispatch etc.) that it feels too messy in regards. Whether the likes of these will be addressed or have a bit of a staying power in the future is uncertain but hopefully there will be a bit more of a transparency soon enough cause this will come to the affect overtime that some may be against it all and things will hopefully improve for a better outcome but I guess we will see in due time.

The hopeful projects of the future known and hopeful reveals

So we have one last section in focus before we wrap all of this up and while we can speculate and choose easily with the choices of the awards, its now time to predict the ideals of some things as to what we may expect to see from the announcements of new games or new looks at ones that were already announced. Now there has been a few that have been confirmed to be shown at this event which include a new look at Resident Evil Requiem, Exodus, Invincible VS, Phantom Blade Zero and Total War are some of the titles that have been confirmed to be making a presence at these awards and its expected for big events, confirmations by the studios and the usual affair for the likes of something that is expected to be revealed close to its release (including now as of finishing with writing this a new Tomb Raider announcement on the way). I can see the likes of some other titles that have already come out and get some insight of some DLC or expansion announcements or shadow drops like the release of the new dungeon for Clair Obscur or the other console port releases for Hades 2 being unveiled or even an official release date for the 4th Borderlands for Switch 2 after it was delayed from Early October this year but I guess we can't say for sure as of yet but I see a fair amount of studios looking to give their insights.

This come into the focus then of the realm of speculation with each big company brand probably unveiling something for their console or their company. For PlayStation, I can see this with a new look at the title of Saros that is releasing in March, or a possible new look at Insomniac's Wolverine title but I think they specified that the next appearance for that is in the spring but who knows, it could have a surprise reveal of footage. One that is a bit up in the air about being shown is Naughty Dog's new game of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, that while the title is essentially been confirmed not to be coming out next year, it could still see a new look at the title, or else we get an idea of the 2nd game they are working on at the same time, which could be a new IP or could also be a Last of Us Part 3 announcement but right now it is unclear if they will. With Microsoft, it can be a difficult one to see what is left from the many studio dismissals this year but I feel 2 titles that may be still with a chance of reveal is with the newest Prequel in the Gears of War series with E-Day and then the case of knowing Kojima will be present as he gets more often then not a 20+ minute presentation for anything with him and I can see it with a focus on his Xbox title of OD or the new title of Physint but it is hard to say, and I feel the only other game that could get a reveal for that console is some new gameplay and a release date for the new entry of fable as they seem the most likely. As for Nintendo, I can see some new looks at maybe one or 2 exclusives for that console or a reveal of a new game like a new 3D Mario, but I see for any form of Nintendo content maybe just with a new clip or look at the upcoming Super mario Galaxy movie and then maybe a proper new look or release date for the Duskbloods from Fromsoftware but it is unclear on what to expect but they seem the most likely. And then of course there is this

for the last few weeks Keighley has been teasing about a mysterious display or monolith in the desert near to where the award show is taking place and its cryptic in a focus that a lot of people are speculating on what this is supposed to be teasing. Some have theorized that its teasing Elder Scrolls VI, a New God of War or entry in the Diablo series but most have been debunked to not be connected to it. I can see in this case being a possible tease for a new Doom expansion or title but the ideal of it is not very clear and ome have been clamouring that it is one of 2 options, either a Bloodborne 2 announcement or a possible Half Life 3 reveal but it is unclear right now and likely we will finally get the idea of it by the actual shows event.

As for ones I want to predict as to what will occour but may be a little too elaborate, I can see a possible new look at GTA 6 being shown, a new look at 007 First Light, gameplay at that Okami sequel that was announced last year or even a possible announcement of some sequels or new ips from some acclaimed companies. Some that I feel may be a little far fetched and would hope for a possible chance is with seeing Beyond Good and Evil 2 again as it is still confirmed in production, likely we will see the rumoured Assassins Creed 4 remake reveal, I hope for an eventual new Rayman title or a 3rd Epic Mickey Game or even the likes of some other remakes or new entries in some popular IPs like a new Crash platformer or a proper Spyro 4 or something in that capacity but it is really hard to say on that. There can be a lot to speculate on what may be revealed from the event but I am sure we can see and be surprised on what is shown from the event but I guess all we can do is see what is unveiled at the event.

Please Wrap this up: concluding thoughts

And now we have come to the end of this very long discussion and talk on video games for another year and I will say it is a fun time to talk and predict on what is going to be nominated and try and guess what could win, besides the case my prediction record has been pretty solid for the last few times, I will be interested to see if the odd picks will happen but I will say that no matter what title or games gets the prizes per category, I will say that it is a true fantastical job for many of them that have shown their worth and effort and even for some of the games that may not have been nominated but were still enjoyed by many, I will say that it was a very strong year for gaming this year with so many banger titles and I am optimistic about the titles on the way out in the new year and I hope it will be just as strong next year as it was this year and I am all for playing more of these games on my channel and in my own time (when I have the energy to do so).

But I wanna know what your own opinions are of these choices and to let me know down in the comments of this of what games do you see as being the big winners of the event and what titles will get revealed or new looks at? Let me know what you think down below and we will get to talk on what was the big winners and some of the big reveals in the Weird Mind episode following this event. But for now I will leave it as that, you all stay being wonderful people, have a great day everyday and I will see you all in the next vote or piece.

Take care, keep being you, signing off

Sam H :)