The 2024 Game Awards recently concluded, showcasing the pinnacle of the gaming industry and recognizing outstanding achievements across various categories. Hosted by renowned gaming personality Geoff Keighley at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, this year’s event celebrated its 10th anniversary and featured 29 competitive categories, culminating in the prestigious Game of the Year award, which was won by “Astro Bot” developed by Team Asobi.
The ceremony not only honored existing titles but also served as a platform for exciting new announcements, hinting at games set to debut in 2025 and beyond. Notable reveals included the unveiling of a new franchise from Naughty Dog entitled “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet,” a sequel to the beloved game “Okami,” and the trailer for “Borderlands 4.” Additionally, FromSoftware teased an upcoming title in the “Elden Ring” series, titled “Elden Ring Nightreign,” set for release in 2025.
Amid the celebrations, the event took a moment to acknowledge the challenges faced by the gaming community, particularly with Amir Satvat of Tencent receiving the first-ever Gamechanger award for his efforts to assist developers impacted by industry-wide layoffs, estimating that around 34,000 jobs were lost in 2024. Satvat emphasized the importance of creativity and talent in game development, stating that great games can’t be made without great people.
One of the exciting highlights was the Players’ Voice award, determined through an open online vote, which was awarded to “Black Myth: Wukong,” showcasing the game’s popularity among gamers.
While the 2024 Game Awards occurred against the backdrop of a continued SAG-AFTRA strike, which seeks fair contracts regarding generative AI usage among major video game publishers, the event ultimately focused on the spirit of innovation and creativity that remains at the heart of the gaming industry.
This year’s winners spanned a diverse array of titles and genres, reflecting the vast talent and creativity within the gaming community. The complete list of categories and winners demonstrated the industry’s thriving landscape, promising an exciting future ahead for gamers and developers alike.
In summary, the Game Awards not only celebrated the achievements of the past year but also set the stage for what lies ahead, fostering a sense of community and hope within an industry facing challenges. The commitment to recognizing and uplifting talent, both established and emerging, encourages a positive outlook for the future of gaming.