The Game Awards 2024 GOTY Nominees: Which Game Will Take the Crown?

While 2023 was undoubtedly a special year, 2024 did have some heavy hitters of its own. The Game Awards 2024 celebrates its 10th anniversary on December 12, promising that the year will conclude full of excitement and surprises, not to mention the long-awaited reveal of Game of the Year (GOTY). This year, six incredible titles vied for the top spot and, what is unique about them all.

Let's get into the nominees and why they are the crème de la crème.

 

 

2024 Game of the Year Nominees

• Astro Bot
• Black Myth: Wukong
• Balatro
• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
• Metaphor: ReFantazio
• Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Each of these has created a place in the industry this year, varying between high innovation, incredible storytelling, and entertainment value

Astro Bot: PlayStation's Platforming Comeback

While 2024 may have been a rather up-and-down year for PlayStation—poor takeouts like Concord and LEGO Horizon Adventures —Astro Bot has been a bright shining star. The joyous platformer that's been delighting folks since its September release rekindled some magic to mascot gaming.

What makes this a contender:

• Nostalgic Love Letter to PlayStation: Packed with Easter eggs, Astro Bot pays a celebratory notion to PlayStation's storied history.
• Tight Gameplay: Its platforming mechanics are sharp and gratifyingly precise, delighting hardcore players and novices alike.
• Critical Acclaim: Sitting at a 94 on Metacritic, Astro Bot is one of the most critically praised games of the year.

This game, if anything, is a warm hug for long-time fans.

Black Myth: Wukong: A Mythical Journey Like No Other

Black Myth: Wukong made all the right eyes in its first trailer, and the full game did not do anything to disappoint. Drawing on Chinese mythology and soulslike combat, it brings a sort of fresh spin to the genre and some jaw-dropping visuals.

Why It's a Contender:

• Stunning Art Direction: Every frame of Wukong is a work of art.
• Deep Combat System: Fans of Dark Souls and Sekiro will feel right at home.
• Cultural Impact: This game tells of the depth of Chinese folklores: a new window to cultural appreciation in the global scene.

Balatro: The Independent Dark Horse

Every year there is one indie darling that punches above its weight. In 2024, it is Balatro. Its unique deck building combined with roguelike elements capture the hearts of players who demand strategy and serendipity in one game.

Why It Is a Contender:

• Imaginative Gameplay: Balatro updates the whole deck-building game genre with a unique take on roguelike progression.
• Underdog Spirit: It is an indie game among such giants from AAA, and it is the essence of creativity triumphing over the budget.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Square Enix is always successful with its revivals of Final Fantasy 7. Its second entry in the long-hyped trilogy, Rebirth takes the story and world of Midgar's escape to greater heights while balancing nostalgia with reinvention.

Why It's a Contender:

• Rich Storytelling: Familiar yet fresh, Rebirth delves deeper into the emotional stakes of its beloved characters.
• Expansive World: From Chocobo rides to sprawling open areas, Rebirth feels bigger and better than ever.
• Fan-Favorite Status: Few games command the love and loyalty that Final Fantasy 7 does.

 

Also Read: The Game Awards 2024: How to Vote and Celebrate Gaming’s Biggest Night

 

Metaphor: ReFantazio: Persona Goes Fantasy

Developed by the creative team behind Persona, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a brand-new RPG. In this game, high school instead turns into fantasy as drama ensues. With these elements, the product is a beautiful, deeply personal adventure exploring identity and ambition.

Why It's a Contender

• Gorgeous World-Building: Exemplifies splendor to the fullest in this sprawling, fantastical, charming, and mysterious landscape.
• Signature Style: Fans of Persona would really enjoy the vibrant art direction as well as a thought-provoking narrative.
• Convincing Combat: Blending turn-based strategy with fresh twists, it's an RPG fan's delight.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree: Back to Glory

When Elden Ring took Game of the Year during the 2022 year-end game awards, few expected that it could be surpassed. Shadow of the Erdtree, its overdue expansion, demonstrates that the creators at FromSoftware are not done redefining the action RPG genre.

Why It's in the Running:

• Massive Content: This expansion feels like a sequel, adding hours of gameplay and new lore to the already vast Elden Ring.
• Evolving Gameplay: Fresh mechanics and boss encounters keep players on their toes.
• Legacy of Excellence: Riding on the coattails of one of the most celebrated games of all time, Shadow of the Erdtree was always destined to shine.

 

 

What's Coming to The Game Awards 2024

It's going to be that really, really big 10th anniversary for the show this year, so expect all stops out. From surprises not shared with others (Hello, Resident Evil 9?) to heartfelt moments reflecting upon games from the last decade, it's an event you do not want to miss.

When all dust has settled, only one title will walk away with the holy grail Game of the Year trophy.

Our Prediction

While all six nominees have strong cases, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree may edge out the competition thanks to its pedigree and ambitious scope. However, don’t count out the underdogs—Balatro’s indie charm and Astro Bot’s nostalgia might just steal the show.