Game Awards host Geoff Keighley recently unveiled the nominees for the 2024 Game Awards, covering a wide range of categories. While the list has something for everyone, fans of Dragon Age: The Veilguard may be disappointed, as the game is not as prominent as expected. The upcoming show, scheduled to stream live on December 12, is already generating buzz with unexpected twists and controversies.
One of the surprises in this year’s nominees is Black Myth: Wukong, a cinematic boss rush game that received a nomination for Game of the Year despite having mixed reviews on Metacritic. It remains to be seen how fans will react if it does not win, but it is likely to excel in the best action game category.
Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware, was a standout winner at the 2022 Game Awards and is a strong contender for Game of the Year again this year with its expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree. The inclusion of DLC in the nominations has raised questions about the fairness of competing against standalone games. Expansions like Factorio’s Space Age DLC are also making waves in the gaming community.
Helldivers 2, an innovative alien shooter game from Arrowhead Game Studios, garnered positive reviews and a dedicated player base but did not receive a nomination for best game. Despite its unique gameplay and popularity on platforms like TikTok, it fell short of the Game Awards jury’s expectations.
Balatro, a roguelike deckbuilding and arcade chase game, emerged as a surprise nominee across multiple categories, showcasing its rapid rise in popularity. While it may not win the best game category, its recognition is well-deserved for a game that gained traction throughout the year.
Bioware’s Dragon Age: The Veilguard, praised for its RPG elements and narrative balance, received only one nomination for Innovation in Accessibility. The game’s exclusion from other categories raised eyebrows, leading to speculation about the reasons behind its limited recognition.
Knuckles, a TV show on Paramount Plus, surprisingly earned a nomination for Best Adaptation, competing against well-established franchises like Arcane and Fallout. The competition in this category reflects the diverse range of adaptations in the gaming industry.
The Silent Hill 2 remake by Bloober Team, initially met with skepticism, turned out to be a successful horror game that garnered multiple nominations at the Game Awards. Despite concerns about the remake tarnishing the original game’s legacy, it has been well-received by fans and critics alike.
EA Sports College Football 25, a highly anticipated sports game, did not receive a nomination in the sports category, despite its strong sales and positive reviews. The absence of the game highlights the unique challenges faced by simulation games in a competitive gaming landscape.
Overall, the 2024 Game Awards nominees present a diverse range of games and adaptations, showcasing the innovation and creativity within the gaming industry. Fans can look forward to the live stream on December 12 to see which games emerge as winners in their respective categories.
