Who Decides Game of the Year?
The Game Awards, one of the most prestigious video game award ceremonies, annually honors the best games in various categories, including Game of the Year. But have you ever wondered who decides which game takes home this coveted title? Let’s dive into the answer.
The Game Awards Voting Jury
The Game Awards has a voting jury consisting of over 100 video game media and influencer outlets, carefully selected for their expertise in critically evaluating video games. This diverse group of individuals comes from various backgrounds, including game development, journalism, and streaming. They have the authority to vote for their favorite games in various categories, including Game of the Year.
The Nomination Process
The nomination process is quite rigorous. A panel of judges, consisting of industry experts and thought leaders, reviews and debates games throughout the year. They deliberate and narrow down the nominees to the top games in each category. This year, the nominees for Game of the Year were Elden Ring, God of War Ragnarok, and Horizon Forbidden West, among others.
The Voting Process
The voting jury, consisting of over 100 media outlets and influencers, casts their votes for their favorite games in each category. Each member of the voting jury has a weighted vote, with some having more influence than others based on their reputation and credibility in the gaming industry.
| Voting Jurors | Weighted Vote |
|---|---|
| Leading gaming media outlets | 3-5 votes each |
| Influencers and content creators | 2-3 votes each |
| Industry experts and developers | 1-2 votes each |
The Winner
The winner of Game of the Year is determined by a simple majority vote. If no game receives a majority, the voting jury deliberates and selects the winner. In recent years, the winner of Game of the Year has been Elden Ring, The Last of Us Part II, and God of War, among others.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The Game of the Year award has significant implications for the gaming industry. It can boost game sales, drive engagement, and impact game development. Winning this award can be a career-defining moment for game developers, and it can also influence game marketing and public perception.
Conclusion
The Game Awards‘ voting jury, comprising over 100 media outlets and influencers, decides which game takes home the Game of the Year title. The nomination and voting processes are rigorous, and the winner is determined by a simple majority vote. The Game of the Year award has a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing game development, marketing, and public perception.