The envelope felt heavier than it should have. Inside, a single photograph: a blurry image of the Eiffel-like tower from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Scrawled on the back were two words: “They know.” Last year belonged to video games, especially those bold titles from smaller studios proving AAA isn’t the only path.
And it appears that winning streak isn’t finished yet.
Game Developer spotted that Expedition 33 snagged another Game of the Year award at the 15th New York Game Awards. But that wasn’t the only win; Jennifer English also secured the award for Best Acting in a Video Game, mirroring her win from The Game Awards. So far, she’s starred in three GOTY TGA winners, including Elden Ring, Baldur’s Gate 3, and now Expedition 33.
More award ceremonies are coming this year. While they will focus on 2025 titles, many happen after the year concludes. This helps them avoid issues such as what happened with Dispatch at TGA, which will be considered for the 2026 event despite launching in October 2025.
The Calm Before the Storm: Award Season Heats Up
Think of award season like watching the tide come in. It starts slow, almost imperceptible, but soon the momentum builds. We’re excited about the DICE Awards on Feb. 12 and the British Academy Game Awards on April 17. I suspect we all have a good idea of who the GOTY winner will be, given that it has won every single time it was nominated in the category.
Some of the other awards, though, might hold a surprise or two. I certainly hope so.
How Many Awards Can One Game Realistically Win?
It’s a fair question. At some point, diminishing returns kick in, but momentum is a powerful force. Expedition 33 isn’t just collecting accolades; it’s building a narrative, a story of underdog triumph that resonates far beyond the gaming press. Each win amplifies the message: originality and vision still matter. Will voters get fatigued? Possibly. But for now, the wave is still building.
Standing Out From the Crowd: What Makes Expedition 33 Special
I saw a street performer once draw a crowd not with flashy tricks, but with quiet intensity. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 feels similar. It’s not about bombast; it’s about atmosphere, about drawing you into a world that feels both familiar and utterly alien.
We’re seeing a shift towards celebrating games that dare to be different, that prioritize artistry over spectacle. In a market saturated with sequels and remakes, a title that brings a unique vision to the table is a breath of fresh air. The visuals, the narrative, and the overall experience have clearly resonated with critics and players alike.
Is a Smaller Studio at an Advantage During GOTY Season?
Not necessarily an advantage, but certainly a different playing field. AAA titles have marketing budgets the size of small countries, but indies have something more valuable: agility. They can take risks, experiment with unconventional mechanics, and cultivate a dedicated community that feels invested in their success. It’s David versus Goliath, and sometimes, the smaller stone finds its mark.
The Road Ahead: Can Expedition 33 Maintain Its Lead?
The year is young. While Expedition 33 has set a high bar, the competition is fierce and the calendar is packed with promising titles. It will be interesting to observe if the title can maintain its place. This is where community engagement and continued support will make all the difference.
The challenge now is to stay relevant, to keep the conversation going. Will other contenders emerge to steal the spotlight, or is Expedition 33 destined to sweep the board?