As 2024 races to its close, one of the year’s most exciting events for gamers is almost here: The Game Awards 2024. Taking place on December 12, this annual spectacle promises to deliver not just the crowning of the best games of the year, but also countless surprises, new announcements, and a celebration of the industry’s top talent. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite title or eagerly awaiting the reveal of future blockbusters, here’s everything you need to know about The Game Awards 2024.
When and Where to Watch
The Game Awards 2024 will be live-streamed globally on December 12, with the show kicking off at:
- 4:30 PM PST
- 7:30 PM EST
- 12:30 AM GMT (Dec 13)
- 9:30 AM JST (Dec 13)
- 11:30 AM AEST (Dec 13)
You can tune in to watch the festivities unfold on several popular platforms, including:
- YouTube
- Twitch
- X (formerly Twitter)
- Facebook Live
- Steam
- TikTok Live
- Instagram Live
- Kick
Additionally, IGN and GameSpot will co-stream the event, ensuring you have plenty of options to catch every moment.
The Game Awards 2024 Nominees: A Stellar Lineup
The nominees for The Game Awards 2024 were officially revealed on November 18, and it’s already shaping up to be a highly competitive year. From expansive RPGs to innovative indie titles, the diversity of the nominees highlights the range of experiences that 2024 has delivered. Here’s a quick look at some of the key nominees:
Game of the Year Nominees:
- Astro Bot
- Balatro
- Black Myth: Wukong
- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
Best Game Direction:
- Astro Bot
- Balatro
- Black Myth: Wukong
- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
Best Narrative:
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
- Silent Hill 2
Best Art Direction:
- Astro Bot
- Black Myth: Wukong
- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Neva
Best Score & Music:
- Astro Bot
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Silent Hill 2
- Stellar Blade
Best Indie Game:
- Animal Well
- UFO 50
- Balatro
- Lorelei and the Laser Eyes
- Neva
Special Categories and Surprises
For the first time in 2024, DLCs, expansions, and remasters are eligible to win Game of the Year. This change, confirmed by the official Game Awards FAQ, allows titles like Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree to compete alongside full releases. The inclusion of these add-ons and seasonal updates opens up some interesting possibilities for what could take home the top honor this year. Could an expansion win Game of the Year? Only time will tell, but titles like Fortnite’s seasonal updates are technically eligible.
Most Anticipated Game (Nominees):
- Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
- Ghost of Yotei
- GTA 6
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Monster Hunter Wilds
A Look at the Best of the Best: Key Titles to Watch
Several standout titles are in the running for multiple awards, with Astro Bot leading the charge with 7 nominations. This PS5 platformer is up for Game of the Year, Best Art Direction, Best Score & Music, Best Audio Design, Best Action/Adventure, Best Family Game, and Best Game Direction.
Other notable games include Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which garnered nominations for Best RPG, Best Performance, and Best Score & Music, as well as Black Myth: Wukong, a highly anticipated action title nominated for Best Action Game.
Meanwhile, Silent Hill 2 makes waves in categories like Best Performance (with Luke Roberts) and Best Score & Music, showcasing its haunting atmosphere and critical acclaim.
What’s New at The Game Awards?
This year, The Game Awards is expanding its scope by recognizing in-game seasons and DLC as eligible for several categories, including Game of the Year. This is an important shift, as it acknowledges the ongoing nature of live-service games like Fortnite, which continually evolve through seasonal updates.
Controversy or Innovation?
The inclusion of seasonal updates and DLCs in Game of the Year is bound to spark debate. For example, the highly praised Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty expansion from last year was notable for its quality but did not make the cut for the main award. This year, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree and other expansions are poised to stir similar conversations.
How Voting Works
The nominees and winners of The Game Awards are determined by a global panel of media and industry influencers, with the public vote also playing a crucial role—accounting for 10% of the final outcome across all categories. While the voting panel’s selections often reflect critical acclaim, public input can provide an exciting twist in the results.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Win Game of the Year?
As we head toward The Game Awards 2024, the question on everyone’s mind is: Which game will take home the coveted Game of the Year award? Will Astro Bot continue its reign as a fan favorite? Or could Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree break new ground for expansions, clinching a top victory? The competition is fierce, and with so many exceptional games nominated, it promises to be an unforgettable night.
The excitement of The Game Awards 2024 is building, and the industry is waiting to see who will emerge victorious. Whether you’re watching for the thrilling reveals or the crowning of the year’s best titles, it’s sure to be a night of celebration, reflection, and speculation.
Let Us Know Your Predictions!
What do you think of the 2024 nominees? Who do you think will win Game of the Year? Drop your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation on our community forum.