The GAME AWARDS 2024: Nominees

Best Action Game

• Black Myth: Wukong: This action RPG based on Journey to the West reimagines Chinese mythology with jaw-dropping visuals and fluid combat mechanics.
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6: The iconic franchise returns with a campaign full of gripping storytelling and high-stakes battles.
• Helldivers 2: This sci-fi co-op shooter tasks players with surviving hostile alien worlds.
• Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2: This long-awaited sequel immerses players in the brutal Warhammer universe.
• Stellar Blade (PlayStation Exclusive): Blending action-adventure gameplay with emotional storytelling.

Best RPG

• Dragon’s Dogma 2: The sequel to Capcom’s cult classic expands on the original’s combat and exploration mechanics.
• Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree: Building on the acclaimed Elden Ring, this DLC adds new areas, enemies, and lore.
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (PlayStation Exclusive): This reimagining of the beloved classic takes storytelling to new heights.
• Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth: The next installment in the Yakuza series blends heartfelt drama with quirky humor.
• Metaphor: ReFantazio: From the creators of Persona, this fantasy RPG introduces a bold new setting and art style.

Best Debut Indie Game

• Animal Well: A pixel-art exploration game immersing players in an eerie, atmospheric world.
• Balatro: By blending card-based mechanics with roguelike systems, Balatro offers endless replayability.
• Manor Lords: This medieval city-builder combines historical realism with large-scale strategy.
• Pacific Drive: A survival driving game where your car becomes your lifeline.
• The Plucky Squire: Seamlessly transitioning between 2D and 3D gameplay, this whimsical adventure tells a heartwarming story.

Best Sim/Strategy Game

• Age of Mythology: Retold: The return of a classic RTS, Age of Mythology: Retold breathes new life into its blend of strategy and mythology.
• Frostpunk 2: This sequel to the acclaimed survival strategy game builds on its predecessor’s moral dilemmas and harsh decision-making.
• Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess: A visually stunning strategy game inspired by Japanese folklore.
• Manor Lords: This medieval city-builder combines historical realism with large-scale strategy.
• Unicorn Overlord: A tactical RPG that combines lush visuals with deep combat systems.

Best Sports/Racing Game

• F1 24: Captures the speed and precision of Formula 1 with improved handling, dynamic weather, and immersive career modes.
• EA Sports FC 25: A new era for football simulation, featuring refined gameplay mechanics and expanded career options.
• NBA 2K25: Redefines basketball gaming with cutting-edge graphics and enhanced gameplay.
• Top Spin 2K25: The revival of the iconic tennis franchise brings realistic mechanics and a robust career mode.
• WWE 2K24: Combines dramatic storytelling with high-octane wrestling action.

The Excitement Around the Nominees

The presence of fresh indie games like Balatro and Pacific Drive alongside blockbuster titles like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Black Myth: Wukong highlights the industry’s incredible range. These nominees demonstrate that great gaming experiences can come from both AAA studios and small, passionate teams.

Whether you’re strategizing in Frostpunk 2, exploring a mythical world in Dragon’s Dogma 2, or building a medieval town in Manor Lords, there’s something here for everyone.

As we approach December 12, 2024, gamers worldwide eagerly await the results, ready to honor the titles that shaped the year and look ahead to the exciting possibilities of 2025.