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The 10 Greatest Games That Didn’t Win Game of the Year
The article ranks ten exceptional video games that did not win Game of the Year at The Game Awards, judging them on gameplay, design, storytelling, visuals, originality, critical acclaim and fan opinion. It argues that award outcomes do not always reflect a game’s lasting quality, highlighting titles that were overshadowed by strong competition or less likely to win because of their genre.
The games discussed include Bloodborne, praised for its challenging combat, Lovecraftian atmosphere and striking visuals despite losing to The Witcher 3; Celeste, recognised for polished platforming and relatable themes; Ghost of Tsushima, noted for rewarding swordplay and its setting during the Mongol invasion of Japan; and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, celebrated for its huge character roster and accessible yet balanced fighting. Alan Wake 2 is also presented as a notable contender from the exceptionally strong 2023 gaming year.
In short
- Several acclaimed games lost Game of the Year to formidable rivals.
- Bloodborne, Celeste and Ghost of Tsushima are among the highlighted titles.
- The list values quality, innovation, influence and fan appreciation.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Game of the Year awards are influenced by voter biases, genre preferences, and competitive timing, so they don't always fully recognize a game's lasting merit and cultural impact. Bloodborne, Ghost of Tsushima, and Celeste demonstrate exceptional design and innovation that these awards may systematically undervalue.
The case against
Game of the Year awards function correctly by selecting the strongest game from each year's competitive field. These games gained significant critical acclaim and commercial success despite not winning; finishing second to equally innovative games reflects competition's reality, not any award system failure.
Explained simply
The Game Awards is an annual ceremony that recognises the best video games of the year across various categories. Each year, Game of the Year goes to one standout title, but this article examines ten exceptional games that failed to win despite their critical and fan acclaim.
The premise is straightforward: winning an award does not always reflect how good a game actually is or how much players enjoy it. Strong competition in any given year can mean brilliant games are overshadowed, and sometimes a game's genre or type makes it less likely to win broad recognition at major award ceremonies.
The games discussed span different styles and eras, from challenging action titles to platformers and fighting games. Each is presented as deserving recognition for its design, storytelling, visuals or innovation, regardless of whether it took home the trophy.