At the industry’s biggest awards ceremony video gamesThe Game Awards,held early Friday (13/12) Greek time in Los Angeles,named the inventive 3D platformer “Astrobot” game of the year.
To “Astro Bot“ was released last September to celebrate 30 years of the Playstation, to make a subtle demonstration of the capabilities of the PS5 and to remember the joy that a good game can provide. Sony’s robot mascot also won the awards for Best game Direction, Best Family Game and Best Action/adventure Game.
It was also a good night playing cards “Balatro”which won three awards: Best Mobile Game, Best Indie Game, and Best debut Indie Game.
A Japanese role-playing game “Metaphor: ReFantasia” it also won three awards: best RPG,best story,best art direction.
the based on Chinese legends “Black Myth: Wukong”despite relatively low ratings from critics, once again proved how many fans he has, winning the Player’s Voice Award.
It was the disappointment of the evening “Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth”which earned nominations in seven categories to finally take home the award for Best Music.
Notices and Disclosures
The Game Awards is a combination of an awards show and a preview event, with many video game fans waiting to see new trailers and announcements of upcoming titles.
This year they had the prospect to look for the first time at what was expected for a long time “The Witcher IV”with Ciri as she takes her first steps into the world of monster hunters.
another title that made a sensation is the “Elden’s ring: Nightreign”a solo adventure set in the world of the highly successful RPG ‘Elden Ring’ and is expected to be released sometime in 2025.
the next game of Naughty Dogs, the creator of the legend “Uncharted” and “The Last of us”, was revealed, called “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet”. The action takes place thousands of years in the future,and the player controls the bounty hunter Jordan A.Mun, who wants to survive and escape from the dangerous planet Sempiria.
How did indie games perform at the Game awards 2023 compared to AAA titles?
Interview: Time.news Editor Speaks with Gaming Expert on The Game Awards 2023 Highlights
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent Game Awards event. Let’s start with the big winner of the night—“Astro Bot.” What do you think contributed to its success as Game of the Year?
Gaming Expert (GE): Thank you for having me! “Astro Bot” truly stood out this year. Released to celebrate the 30th anniversary of PlayStation, it not only showcases the technological advancements of the PS5 but also captures the essence of pure gaming joy, which resonates with players. Its accolades—Best Game Direction, Best Family Game, and Best Action/Adventure Game—further validate its creativity and appeal across various demographics.
TNE: Many games received multiple awards at the ceremony.Notably, “Balatro” swept the categories for best Mobile Game, Best Indie Game, and Best Debut Indie Game.What does this say about the current landscape of indie gaming?
GE: The success of “Balatro” is a testament to the vibrant indie game scene. With more platforms and tools available, self-reliant developers can create innovative games that capture players’ imaginations.Winning three significant awards highlights how indie games are increasingly becoming a force within the industry, offering creative experiences that frequently enough outshine bigger AAA titles.
TNE: Speaking of impressive titles, “Metaphor: ReFantasia” also earned three awards, including Best RPG. Can you shed light on what makes this game noteworthy in the RPG genre?
GE: Absolutely! “Metaphor: ReFantasia” engages players with its rich storytelling and stunning art direction,both of which are paramount in role-playing games. Winning Best Story and Best Art Direction emphasizes the importance of narrative depth and visual appeal in today’s gaming landscape. Its success also signals players’ desire for immersive experiences that combine artistry with gameplay.
TNE: On the other end of the spectrum, “Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth” received significant nominations but only secured the award for Best Music. What does this indicate about player expectations for such a storied franchise?
GE: “Final Fantasy” has a long legacy of high expectations, especially with fans eagerly anticipating sequels. The fact that it only won in the music category suggests that while the soundtrack is still a highlight, other aspects may not have resonated as strongly with fans. This highlights the challenge developers face in living up to the monumental standards set by their predecessors. They must balance nostalgia with innovation to capture the audience’s heart.
TNE: The Game Awards also doubled as a preview event. Let’s talk about the sneak peeks showcased, specifically “The Witcher IV.” What can fans expect from this long-awaited installment?
GE: “The Witcher IV” has generated a lot of excitement, especially as it features Ciri stepping into the monster-hunting world. Fans can anticipate a narrative-rich experience that continues the franchise’s tradition of deep storytelling and character progress. With new gameplay mechanics and perhaps a broader open world, it’s poised to keep players engaged while expanding on beloved lore.
TNE: Another intriguing title revealed was “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” from Naughty Dog. What are your thoughts on this direction for the developers known for “Uncharted” and “The Last of Us”?
GE: Naughty Dog’s pivot into sci-fi with “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” suggests a willingness to explore new genres while maintaining compelling narratives. By placing players in a futuristic habitat with a bounty hunter, they can incorporate classic elements of exploration and character-driven stories that fans love, while also pushing the boundaries of their creative storytelling.
TNE: what advice would you give to aspiring game developers looking to make their mark in an industry that celebrates creativity and innovation?
GE: My advice to aspiring developers is to stay true to your vision and embrace creative risks. focus on storytelling, whether through gameplay mechanics or narrative development. Additionally, learn from both indie successes and AAA failures to craft experiences that resonate. Networking with other developers and participating in gaming competitions can provide invaluable experience and exposure as well.
TNE: Thank you for sharing your insights! The Game Awards were not only a festivity of excellence but also a glimpse into the future of gaming.
GE: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for the video game industry,and I look forward to seeing how these developments unfold.