The Game Awards 2025 Nominees Revealed

The nominations for The Game Awards 2025 are officially out, and the competition for Game of the Year (GOTY) is fiercer than ever. With a mix of highly anticipated sequels, indie favorites, and innovative newcomers, this year’s list reflects the diversity and creativity driving the gaming industry.

A touch competition

Six games are competing for the coveted GOTY award:

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 - A visually striking and narrative-driven RPG, noted for its ambitious world-building.

• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach - Hideo Kojima’s long-awaited sequel continues his signature style of cinematic storytelling.

• Donkey Kong Bananza - Nintendo's latest platforming adventure, offering charm and accessibility for players of all ages.

• Hades II - The follow-up to the critically acclaimed roguelike, praised for refined gameplay mechanics and immersive storytelling.

• Hollow Knight: Silksong - The sequel to the beloved indie hit, combining challenging exploration with a captivating art style.

• Kingdom Come: Deliverance II - A sprawling RPG emphasizing realism, complex narrative choices, and historical accuracy.

Unlike previous years, 2025 sees a blend of blockbuster titles and niche favorites. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has emerged as the frontrunner, receiving 12 nominations across multiple categories, the highest ever recorded in the history of The Game Awards. Its wide recognition highlights its impact on both critics and industry peers, signaling strong momentum heading into the ceremony.

Meanwhile, Death Stranding 2 and Hades II bring pedigree and fan loyalty to the table, while Hollow Knight: Silksong maintains the indie spotlight. Donkey Kong Bananza offers mass-market appeal, and Kingdom Come: Deliverance II demonstrates that large-scale, story-driven RPGs are still relevant and ambitious.

Industry experts point to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as the most likely GOTY winner. Several factors support this prediction: its record-breaking number of nominations, critical acclaim, and strong presence in categories ranging from narrative to art direction. The game's combination of innovative gameplay, immersive story, and aesthetic appeal make it a standout candidate.

Other nominees face challenges in comparison. Death Stranding 2, despite its cinematic prestige, may not feel as fresh to voters. Donkey Kong Bananza is fun and widely accessible but may lack the "prestige" edge often favored for GOTY. Hades II and Silksong, though highly regarded, might be at a disadvantage as sequels in niche genres. Kingdom Come: Deliverance II could struggle to overcome genre saturation and the sequel factor.

Looking Ahead

While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 appears poised for victory, The Game Awards have a history of surprises, and any of the nominees could theoretically pull off an upset. The ceremony, set for December 11, 2025, will not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the trends and innovations shaping gaming this year. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if the frontrunner secures the top honor or if a dark horse rises to claim the GOTY 2025. Either way, the nominations showcase an impressive year of creativity, ambition, and gaming excellence. As usual, if you want to get any of those games at the best price, you can use our comparator to have the best discounts.