The 2023 Game Award predictions

It's that time of year again! The 2023 Game Awards nominations have just been revealed, and we have the perfect predictions for each category. But before we get to sharing them, let's explain our reasoning. We have our hands on information from reliable sources, inside scoops, and, of course, our personal gut feelings to create the ultimate guide to the Game Awards.Last blog, I tried to Predict the nominations, to get my taste buds and mind ready to predict the awards. And now its time for the main show. So without further ado, let's start off strong and work our way down to the more uncertain ones. You know the drill: buckle up, gamers! We're in for a wild ride!

Game of the Year: 

Nominations:

Baldur’s Gate 3 


Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 


Resident Evil 4 


Super Mario Bros. Wonder 


The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 

Winner:

The Game of the Year nominees are here and they're a mixed bag. ResiEvil 4 and Super Mario Odyssey take center stage, but they're joined by some surprising contenders. Resident Evil 4 is still the frontrunner in my book, but don't count out the competition. Alan Wake seems like a great game, but it lacked the fanfare or buzz to win it all. Spider-Man 2, on the other hand, is too divisive among fans for my liking. Call me a survival horror purist, but my vote goes to Resident Evil 4. What's your pick for Game of the Year?
Alan Wake 2 


Best Game Direction:

Nomination:

Alan Wake 2 

Baldur’s Gate 3 


Marvel’s Spider-Man 2


Super Mario Bros. Wonder 


The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 

Winner:

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a masterpiece of a game, boasting incredible direction and a sheer love for the Mario franchise. From the passion and care put into its development by both the developers and the direction team, it's evident that this game is a labor of love. The attention to detail and dedication to the craft of creating a truly immersive and entertaining gaming experience is remarkable, making Super Mario Bros.

Best Adaptation

Nominations:

Castlevania: Nocturne 


Gran Turismo 


The Last of Us 


The Super Mario Bros. Movie 


Twisted Metal 

Winner:

There were a lot of solid game adaptations in 2023, and this category alone has the best of the best, but even the best of the best has a cream of the crop. And from what I saw this year alone, the best of the best is going to be The Last Of Us. As great as the super Mario bros movie was, and as fun and chaotic twisted metal was, Last Of Us was super popular and since it was a direct adaptation it was a great opening for both non gamers and gamers to both enjoy. It didnt stray from the source material in a noticable way so any fans of the games wont be upset, and the story is big and bombastic with soft touches of silence to breath, plus the acting shows the worlds state its beautiful in its darkness 

Best Narrative:

Nominations:

Alan Wake 2 


Baldur’s Gate 3 


Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty


Final Fantasy XVI 


Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Winner:

From a narrative standpoint, this year was stacked with stellar storylines. However, Baldur's Gate III has an edge over the competition, being based on the classic table-top game and boasting an engaging tale that keeps players on their toes. Not to mention, the option to create gay characters gives it a boost in the narrative department. Final Fantasy has always been known for its top-tier storytelling, and even lesser-known titles such as FFXIII still sport compelling narratives. With such stiff competition, it's anyone's game for the best narrative award, but these two are certainly shining bright among the rest.
But the winner in my mind is Baldur's Gate 3

Best Art Direction:

Nominations:

Alan Wake 2 


Hi-Fi Rush 


Lies of P 


Super Mario Bros. Wonder 


The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 

Winner:

In a day and age where many games look similar, a game with panache and pizzazz is a much-needed breath of fresh air. This year, that game was Hi-Fi Rush, whose spiritual successor to Jet Set Radio comes off as a vibrant and colorful celebration of style. With its stylish models and signature attitude, this game is here to remind the world what it means to be truly cool. When you play this game, you'll never want to look back. Get out there and get your groove on with Hi-Fi rush!

Best Score and Music:

Nominations:

Alan Wake 2, Composer Petri Alanko 


Baldur’s Gate 3, Composer Borislav Slavov 


Final Fantasy XVI, Composer Masayoshi Soken 


Hi-Fi Rush, Audio Director Shuichi Kobori 


The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Composed by Nintendo Sound Team 

Winner: 

It's no secret that a great soundtrack can make or break a game. Hi-Fi Rush understands this concept and executes it flawlessly. A perfect marriage of hyperactive rock and DJ magic pays tribute to its roots in Jet Set Radio, while adding its own unique touch to the gaming landscape. With its captivating soundtrack, Hi-Fi Rush shows its reverence for not only music but the love and care that goes into crafting a great game experience. Get ready to hear it, feel it, and love it, because this one's a real blast!

Best Audio Design:

Nominations:

Alan Wake 2 

Dead Space (Motive Studio/EA)


Hi-Fi Rush (Tango Gameworks/Bethesda Softworks)


Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (Insomniac Games/SIE)
Resident Evil 4 (Capcom)

Winner: 

Much like the previous Nominations and winners. the sound design for Hi-Fi rush is award winning as it is. 

Best Performance:

Nominations:

Ben Starr, Final Fantasy XVI


Cameron Monaghan, STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor


Idris Elba, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty


Melanie Liburd, Alan Wake 2


Neil Newbon, Baldur’s Gate 3


Yuri Lowenthal, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Winner:

To behold the portrayal of Peter Parker by none other than Yuri Lowenthal is to witness perfection in action. Lowenthal's ability to inject youth into Peter's voice mixed with the maturity and experience of his character is truly a sight to behold. Directorial guidance only elevates Lowenthal's performance, bringing Peter to life in a truly incredible way. Lowenthal's incredible talent in stepping into the shoes of Peter Parker is undeniable, and this performance is destined to go down in history as one of the greatest portrayals of a comic book character of all time.

Innovation in Accessibility:

Nominations:

Diablo IV 


Forza Motorsport 

Hi-Fi Rush 

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 

Mortal Kombat 1 

Street Fighter 6 

Winner:

The accessibility features in Diablo 4 are truly one for the books! Having a screen reader, text to speech, and even color blind options are just a handful of the features included to make the game accessible to everyone. As industry standards go, Blizzard has definitely raised the bar with Diablo 4, and it's not difficult to see why! With just these three features alone, Diablo 4 is the epitome of accessibility and should be the blueprint for gaming in this arena. Time to dive in and enjoy this wonderfully inclusive adventure!

Games For Impact:

Nominations:

A Space for the Unbound

Chants of Sennaar 

Goodbye Volcano High 

Tchia 

Terra Nil

Venba 

Winner:

Goodbye Volcano High has been a revelation in the game industry, not only creating a gripping story and unique atmosphere, but also showcasing a world where differences are celebrated and diversity is embraced. With an emphasis on personal growth and acceptance of disabilities, Goodbye Volcano High is not just a great game, but also a driving force for bringing communities together and empowering gamers everywhere. Because this game has made such a profound impact, it's a worthy contender for Impactful Game of the Year.

Best Ongoing Game:

Nominations:

Apex Legends

Cyberpunk 2077 

Final Fantasy XIV 

Fortnite 

Genshin Impact 

Winner

Best Community Support:

Nominations:

Baldur’s Gate 3 (Larian Studios)


Cyberpunk 2077 (CD Projekt Red)


Destiny 2 (Bungie)


Final Fantasy XIV (Square Enix)


No Man’s Sky (Hello Games)

Winner

Best Independent:

Nominations:

Game
Cocoon 

Dave the Diver 

Dredge 

Sea of Stars 

Viewfinder 

Winner

Best Debut Indie Game:

Nominations:

Cocoon 

Dredge 

Pizza Tower

Venba 

Viewfinder 

Winner

Pizza Tower is a charming and whimsical game that pays homage to Wario Ware. Brimming with quirky and wacky fun, this game is a visual spectacle, with vibrant colors and zany animations that will draw you into its wacky world. With unique and challenging levels, the game is an absolute blast to play, offering a fresh and engaging take on the genre. Whether you're looking for a challenge or just some silly shenanigans, Pizza Tower is sure to satisfy your cravings with its charming and zany pizza-inspired adventure!Best Mobile Game


Best Mobile Game:

Nominations:

Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis 

Honkai: Star Rail 

Hello Kitty Island Adventure 


Monster Hunter Now 

Terra Nil

Winner

The battle for the top spot in mobile gaming this year was a fierce and tough one. Monster Hunter may be a major player with its mobile game experience, but Honkai: Star Rail, with its deep Genshin and Honkai roots, is a truly dominating contender. With its small screen action and connections to a beloved gaming franchise, Star Rail takes the crown for the top honoree in its category for the year. It's been a tough call, but it looks like this is one honor Star Rail isn't going to be able to hunt down

Best VR/AR Game


Nominations:

Gran Turismo 7 

Humanity 

Horizon Call of the Mountain 

Resident Evil Village VR Mode 

Synapse

Winner

Best Action

Nominations:

Game
Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon (FromSoftware/Bandai Namco)


Dead Island 2 (Dambuster Studios/Deep Silver)


Ghostrunner 2 (One More Level/505 Games)


Hi-Fi Rush (Tango Gameworks/Bethesda Softworks)


Remnant 2 (Gunfire Games/Gearbox Publishing)

Winner

Armored Core 6 is a sure-fire hit for mecha enthusiasts, blending stunning visuals and thrilling combat with a splash of Soulsborne attitude. Action junkies can indulge in the high-octane adventure, while also finding themselves in a world brimming with customization options for both themselves and their mighty robots. With a fresh twist on traditional mecha mechanics, Armored Core 6 is a welcome addition to a beloved series, and is a top contender for action game of the year. 

Best Action/Adventure Game


Nominations:

Alan Wake 2 

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 

Resident Evil 4 

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor 

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 

Winner

Resident Evil 4 has established itself as a true survival horror classic, blending both terror and action to create a true nailbiter of an experience. The remake continues in this legacy, delivering a sleek and updated version of this popular title. The action set pieces are impressive and the gunplay is smooth, offering a truly thrilling and engaging adventure for everyone to enjoy. With its ability to nail the balance between scares and thrills, Resident Evil 4 is an easy win for the title of action adventure game of the year.

Best RPG


Nominations:

Baldur’s Gate 3 

Final Fantasy XVI 

Sea of Stars 

Starfield 

Winner

Best Fighting Game


Nominations:

God of Rock 

Mortal Kombat 1 

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 

Pocket Bravery 

Street Fighter 6 

Winner

Street Fighter 6 is undoubtedly the top fighter this year, bringing a fresh and innovative approach to the classic series. Utilizing the RE Engine to deliver high-quality visuals and an accessible control scheme, this game has truly revolutionized fighting gameplay. The seamless story and inclusion of free-roam exploration offer an unprecedented level of gaming immersion, drawing in both die-hard fans and new players alike. Amidst universal acclaim and positive reception, Street Fighter 6 has secured its place as the fighting game of the year!

Best Family Game:

Nominations:

Disney Illusion Island 

Party Animals 

Pikmin 4 

Sonic Superstars 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder 

Winner

Pikmin 4, Pikmin is a cute game that anyone in the family can enjoy, theres no anxiety or rush to get players to do some things like mario or Sonic. plus the atmosphere is cute and cozy. 

Best Sim/Strategy Game


Nominations:

Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp 

Cities: Skylines II 

Company of Heroes 3 

Fire Emblem Engage 

Pikmin 4 

Winner

Fire Emblem Engage is poised to take home the Strategy Game of the Year award, given its massive popularity among both strategy game enthusiasts and anime fans alike. With its iconic legacy and deep strategic gameplay, Engage will have no problem edging out the competition, including its distant cousin, Advanced Wars, in the strategy game arena. With its unique and engaging story and gameplay, and strong ties to the anime genre, Engage is the ultimate crossover game that unites fans of diverse backgrounds and interests, making it a well-deserved contender for Strategy Game of the Year.

Best Multiplayer Presented by Discord


Nominations:

Baldur’s Gate 3 

Diablo IV 

Party Animals 

Street Fighter 6

Super Mario Bros. Wonder 

Winner

In the race for Multiplayer Game of the Year, Diablo 4 is the clear winner. While Baldur's Gate has a multiplayer option, it's not the main draw for many players. On the other hand, Diablo 4 is a fully featured live service game, giving you and your friends hours of fun experimenting with new builds, fighting monsters and exploring dungeons in this macabre horror-filled crawler. With its multiplayer element always front and center, Diablo 4 offers multiplayer fun at its best, making it a worthy contender for this prestigious honor.

Most Anticipated Game


Nominations:

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth 

Hades II 

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth 

Star Wars Outlaws

Tekken 8 

Winner

Tekken 8 is undoubtedly one of the most eagerly anticipated games of the year, with its hype reaching new heights with every new trailer. The reveal of each new or returning character drives the fanbase into a frenzy, filling them with anticipation and desire that is unmatched. With its high-profile roster and stunning graphics, Tekken 8 truly is a force to be reckoned with, and it's no surprise that the hype surrounding this game can't be matched. Tekken 8 is a worthy contender for Game of the Year 2024, and it will be a thrilling adventure for fans and newcomers alike.

Best Esports Game

Nominations:

Counter-Strike 2 

Dota 2 

League of Legends 

PUBG Mobile 

Valorant 

Winner

League of Legends has been the king of the E-sports scene for years, and with good reason. In addition to new champions being added to the game, a recent Netflix animated series has only served to boost its popularity within the gaming community. With its intense focus on competitive gameplay and its ever-growing presence in the E-sports world, League of Legends has undoubtedly sealed its status as a frontrunner for the E-sports Game of the Year award.

Best Esports Event
2023 

Nominations:

League of Legends World Championship


Blast.tv Paris Major 2023


EVO 2023


The International Dota 2 Championships 2023


Valorant Champions 2023

Winner

In the race for Esports Event of the Year, it's EVO 2023 that's taking the crown. This incredible gaming event not only boasts an impressive lineup of participants, it also provides an incredible viewing experience for spectators. With breathtaking combos and epic clashes taking center stage, it's no surprise that fans can't wait to see their favorite players duke it out in a fierce and highly skilled game of strategy and skill. The combination of an exciting player lineup, mixed with a captivating event experience, makes EVO 2023 a well-deserved contender for the prestigious Esports Event of the Year award.