Phantom Blade Zero Just Killed Crimson Desert’s Chances At a GOTY
Phantom Blade Zero has had a strong launch, with positive reviews and high player numbers on Steam. The article argues that its success makes it a stronger contender for The Game Awards’ Game of the Year shortlist and weakens the prospects of Crimson Desert, a fellow high-profile game from outside the traditional Western publishing system.
Phantom Blade Zero has Metacritic and OpenCritic scores of 88 and 89, respectively, compared with Crimson Desert’s 77. The article says both games appeal to similar voters, but Phantom Blade Zero’s stronger reviews and focused design may win over people uncertain about Crimson Desert. Both could still be nominated, though they face competition for only one or two remaining places.
In short
- Phantom Blade Zero is a stronger GOTY contender after its well-reviewed launch.
- Its success may make it harder for Crimson Desert to secure a nomination.
- Both games still face competition for a limited number of places.
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The case for
Phantom Blade Zero’s stronger review scores and strong launch give it a credible edge in a crowded awards field. If voters see the two games as appealing to similar audiences, its focused design may make it the more persuasive choice for a limited shortlist place, particularly for those less convinced by Crimson Desert.
The case against
A strong launch and higher review scores do not settle an awards race: voters may value different qualities, and the games could both earn nominations if their strengths appeal to distinct parts of the electorate. Crimson Desert’s lower scores may not capture everything voters value, so its chances are weakened rather than necessarily eliminated.
Explained simply
The Game Awards’ Game of the Year prize recognises games released during the year, with a shortlist chosen by a jury of media outlets and a public vote contributing to the final result. Many games compete for a limited number of nominations, so strong reviews and player interest can help a title attract attention.
Phantom Blade Zero and Crimson Desert are high-profile action games made by studios outside the traditional Western publishing system. Review scores are one measure of critical reception, while Steam player numbers show how many people are playing on that PC platform. Both games could still be nominated, but they may appeal to some of the same voters.